Genesis 38:9 ...whenever he slept with his brother’s wife, he spilled his semen on the ground to keep from providing offspring for his brother.

Ezekiel 23:20 There she lusted after her lovers, whose genitals were like those of donkeys and whose emission was like that of horses.

Deuteronomy 22:20-22 If... no proof of the young woman’s virginity can be found, she shall be brought to the door of her father’s house and there the men of her town shall stone her to death. 

Psalm 137:9 Happy is the one who seizes your infants and dashes them against the rocks

The Bible, a cornerstone text for many religious traditions, contains numerous passages with highly explicit content, including stories of violence, sexual encounters, and other adult themes that are not suitable for young audiences. These passages, such as the descriptions found in  Ezekiel and various narratives throughout the Old and New Testaments, can be startlingly graphic.

Children must not be exposed to literary pornography. Many people assume religious texts are automatically suitable for children, but a close examination reveals themes that are clearly aimed at a mature audience. Just as films, video games, and other forms of media incorporate age ratings to protect children from exposure to inappropriate content, religious texts that include adult themes should be classified similarly to ensure they are read and understood in the correct context.

In an effort to protect our youth while respecting the rights of individuals to explore their faith, we ask for the implementation of an age verification system for the Bible. This move will ensure that all literary works, regardless of cultural or religious significance, are accessed in a manner that considers the safety and development of our children.

Sign this petition if you believe in protecting our children from exposure to inappropriate content, even within the context of religious education.