Why is this quote important?! (from the crucible)?

Question

"Abby, I may think of you softly from time to time. But I will cut off my hand before I'll ever reach for you again. Wipe it out of mind. We never touched, Abby."

Answer 1

For people who are supposed to BE "celibate", touching woman's flesh is considered a sin. It is in this context that this was said. It means the person will not sin again because of the flesh.