PROGRESSIVE RELIGIONS:
Evolving faiths and their changing Stance on LGBTQIA+
- Atilla Tiriyaki
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With the discrimination of same-sex relationships in many countries around the world, the LGBTQIA+ community has been growing in visibility, positively over the years, now with increased numbers of notable people, including celebrities, politicians, and business leaders, publicly and proudly identifying with the community. The increased visibility and awareness of the community have given ordinary, everyday people the freedom and environment to be themselves and share who they are with their friends and family.
The increased visibility and awareness of the LGBTQIA+ community have meant, through direct connections and better representation, that many of the outdated stereotypes have been dispelled, fear of the previously unknown, unseen and hidden community has dramatically reduced, and acceptance has been growing positively, albeit slowly, in many countries globally, all reflected in more progressive laws and freedoms. Today, in everyday life settings, it has become commonplace for people to know of, directly or indirectly, a person who identifies as LGBTQIA+.
With the increased visibility and awareness of the community, a conflict can occur when a person, who follows a faith, especially one that strongly and publicly condemn the community and the perceived way they live their lives, all at the same time, knowing that their doctrine or messaging from leaders of the faith’ is at direct odds with the reality of who they are, or the person or people they personally know. Though a person’s faith and personal truth can represent a significant challenge for some, over the years, many faiths and denominations have gradually softened their stance toward the community. Let us explore the history, current and changing position of many major religions.
Since ancient times, many of the prevalent religions and faiths followed by people around the world have often consisted of multiple deities, with some of those deities described in modern terms as gender fluid, having same-sex relationships, and seen as more progressive than in all of the centuries that followed. For many ordinary people, especially those we today would consider LGBTQIA+ may have existed on the fringe of society; however, from the accounts and texts that exist from that period of history, they seem not to generally have been actively persecuted, with some, especially those today referred to as Intersex or Transgender, often seen as spiritual, given they had unique perspectives, between the two sexes offering insight.
In Ancient Rome and Ancient Greek religions, citizens were able to participate in same-sex relationships without stigma, as long as those older or in higher positions in society were seen to take the active, more dominant role. With LGBTQIA+ lifestyles existing throughout society, there are countless examples of same-sex relationships documented throughout the period, from Greek Gods to Emperors. One such example is the Roman Emperor Elagabalus, who reigned between 218 and 222 AD and was the leader of one of the largest empires in the world at the time. An emperor known to wear women’s clothing and makeup and to prefer being addressed and treated as a woman.
An example from thousands of years ago, relating to an emperor who sought gender-affirming care, and by today’s definitions, would likely have identified as transgender. LGBTQIA+ individuals were not found just in ancient Rome or Greece but throughout the world. In many parts of Europe, especially amongst the Celts, the people of that time typically followed the Druid faith, which was known to be welcoming and inclusive of the LGBTQIA+ community, emphasising nature’s diversity and rejecting prejudice.
Other major religions, such as Hinduism, are known to have ancient texts describing deities, saints, and kings who transcended gender norms, formed same-sex unions, and recognised a third gender known as Hijra or Kinnar. Early Buddhism did not place stigma on same-sex relations, and Shinto and Taoism had no specific moral codes against homosexuality, viewing sex as a natural phenomenon. An example can be found in Chinese folk religion, where Tu’er Shen, the Rabbit God, is a deity who oversees and blesses same-sex male relationships.
Though many modern-day religions and denominations have been around for centuries, the concept of the one God and the spread of the message and missionary approach to the faith led many of these religions to focus on these ancient faiths, condemning some of the practices, attitudes, and beliefs, using fear of damnation to convert the masses and to spread the gospel. Even in the origins of some of the major denominations we know today, though some clerics held beliefs that same-sex relationships were as sinful, often LGBTQIA+ people would live on the fringe of society and were not actively persecuted by the leaders at that time. There are ancient accounts of LGBTQIA+ communities, practices and even priests performing same-sex blessings for notable people of the time, including kings. It was from the 12th century that the view of same-sex acts became seen as more sinful and became the distinct focus of severe, systematic persecution. Persecution that has persisted for over 900 years and which continues in parts of the world today.
Before we delve into the major denominations, let us first define what we mean by progressive. The term progressive is typically used in relation to change and positive attitudes and behaviours, and describes something that is happening or developing gradually, in stages, or in a reforming process. With societal attitudes and acceptance regarding the LGBTQIA+ community slowly changing around the world, the stance and position of many conventional denominations are beginning to change with it. Let us explore some of the main denominations, their positions on the community, and any progress being made.
Most Christian churches hold the position that you should love the sinner, but hate the sin. The interpretation is that you should show love and compassion towards LGBTQIA+ individuals, but encourage abstinence and for them not to give in to their desires or nature. The belief extends to relationships and sex, which should only take place in the sanctity of marriage between a man and a woman. There are significant divisions within the Christian community regarding the LGBTQIA+ community, with the position and approach varying between the various Christian faiths. Some of those religions call for individuals to observe chastity and restraint, while others, such as the Quakers, believe that to reject people on the grounds of their sexual behaviour is a denial of God’s creation. A belief that homosexuals are simply following their instincts, and as God created them, they should not be condemned. Even in some of the more traditionalist faiths, some factions believe that many of the laws in the Bible would not be accepted now because the nature of society has changed, for example, capital punishment and slavery, and many believe that ancient standards should not restrict the faith.
The Episcopal Church, Evangelical Lutheran Church, United Church of Christ, Presbyterian Church, Christian Church (Disciples of Christ), and the Methodist Church hold progressive positions; however, the approach may vary by country and local congregation. Anglicans and Methodists have for some time been having internal debates to help foster more inclusive congregations and preceding, as well as preceding over same-sex marriages. Other affirming groups include Quakers (Religious Society of Friends) and the Metropolitan Community Churches, with some denominations allowing local churches to perform same-sex blessings and marriages. Some churches offer formal rites for blessing same-sex unions (like the Episcopal Church initially did) while others perform full marriage rituals. Even within the stauncher religious groups, such as Catholicism, since Pope Francis, the church has softened its stance, with the pope stating that homosexuality is a sin but not a crime and approving non-liturgical blessings for same-sex couples.
The principle is that liwāṭ, the sexual act between men, was haram, or unholy; however, some believe the penalty for those who perform it should be severe, especially where it is seen as a blatant infringement on public morals, as defined by Islamic law. In the modern era, Muslim public attitudes towards homosexuality underwent a marked change beginning in the 19th century, mainly due to the global spread of Islamic fundamentalist movements, namely Salafism and Wahhabism. The Muslim world was influenced by the sexual views and restrictive norms that were prevalent in the Christian world during the same period, particularly with regard to anti-homosexual legislation found throughout many European societies. In addition, a number of Muslim-majority countries that were once colonies of European empires retained the criminal penalties against homosexuality that were implemented initially by European authorities.
While traditional Islamic scholarship condemns homosexual acts as sinful, contemporary Muslim communities show diverse perspectives, ranging from strict prohibition to greater inclusivity, influenced by cultural, historical, and theological interpretations. The reality today is that very few of the countries in the world, with a Muslim majority population, have fully decriminalised same-sex relations, and none permit same-sex marriages or civil unions. Many believe that homosexuality is by Western design; however, the attitudes towards the community may not be extreme or harsh in all Muslim countries. Progress is slow, and many members of the community face persecution in many of the countries that identify as Muslim nations.
Judaism is comprised of several movements or denominations; however, the individual groups typically do not view themselves as entirely separate from the faith, and many allow intermarriage or movement between different affiliations. The primary difference lies in their approach to Jewish law (Halakha), their unique traditions, and their integration within modern society, as well as Judaism’s view and position on homosexuality, which will vary significantly by movement.
Traditionally, the more conventional movement, Orthodox Judaism, believes that same-sex sexual acts and marriage are prohibited, viewing them as an abomination based on texts of Leviticus 18:22 and 20:13; however, many modern-day Orthodox Rabbis promote compassion and inclusion, with some suggesting celibacy, as well as some performing same-sex commitment ceremonies. Conservative Judaism, which has a more evolving stance with approving same-sex marriage ceremonies, to Reform and Reconstructionist Judaism, where they fully embrace LGBTQIA+ individuals and where they see same-sex relationships and marriage as valid within the faith.
The LGBTQIA+ community has been a long-debated issue within many of the modern Jewish denominations and has led to division amongst the movements. Though traditional Judaism beliefs do not condemn homosexuality, for some, the sexual act is where the problem lies. Even with the division, many of the more liberal branches, which have long openly accepting of the LGBTQIA+ community, some more traditional groups have been becoming more inclusive and welcoming.
Though many of the movements acknowledge the Levitical verses, they also accept that their application and interpretation may differ in a more modern context. For many LGBTQIA+ individuals, they are welcomed and included in all aspects of Jewish life, where same-sex weddings can take place through Jewish ritual, and it is becoming more commonplace for some faith leaders, Rabbis, to identify as LGBTQIA+ themselves. The Jewish community has become inclusive of the LGBTQIA+ community and encourages visibility amongst the congregation.
Though there is a difference of perspective, even at the far ends of the scale, none advocate harsh treatment or ostracisation. The attitudes of Hindus, followers of the faith, vary, with some advocating for the inclusion of LGBTQIA+ individuals even within spiritual paths, while others uphold more traditional views. Like with many major denominations, the history of acceptance is complex.
There are many polarised positions in the scriptures and traditions; for example, ancient Hindu mythology, which features androgynous deities and third genders; texts like the Bhagavata Purana, which describes non-procreative sex; and ancient works that acknowledged varied sexual expressions. Many modern Hindu organisations promote acceptance, stating no spiritual reason exists to reject LGBTQIA+ individuals, viewing them as fellow seekers of moksha (liberation). At the same time, the scriptures and traditions are often in conflict, with more conservative Hindus calling to uphold traditional values, while more liberal Hindus are calling for greater inclusion.
The difference in approach and views is evident in where the majority of followers of the faith, Hindus, live: India. It is estimated that over 1.1 billion people, or over 79% of the population, identify as Hindu. India has seen some success concerning LGBTQIA+ rights; same-sex relationships have been decriminalised, transgender rights have been recognised; however, there is still an equality movement for marriage rights, reflecting the societal challenges between traditional and liberal Hindus’ positions and beliefs.
The views and positions, between the branches and sub-sects, may vary concerning the LGBTQIA+ community; however, Buddhism typically views homosexuality with acceptance, focusing on compassion and non-harm rather than judging a person’s sexual orientation. Though some more traditional interpretations, especially in Vajrayana, might not see same-sex relationships as inherently wrong, they consider all sexual acts to be productive in procreation and linked to samsara (cycle of rebirth). Many modern teachers advocate for full inclusion, viewing sexual orientation as irrelevant to the spiritual path, with the emphasise on love and mutual benefit, aligning with the core principles of Buddha-dharma.
The teaching’s core emphasis is on love, kindness, and mutual respect, which applies to same-sex couples just as it does to heterosexual couples. The key is whether a sexual act causes harm, suffering, or involves attachment, not the gender of those concerned. The concept of not causing harm relates to the core principle that Buddhism does not consider sin, only conduct, virtuous or non-virtuous, linked to a person’s karma.
The Buddhist approach prioritises the quality of the relationship (love, consent, and the absence of harm) over the gender of the partners, welcoming all orientations onto the path of enlightenment. Buddhism is more likely to accept homosexuality than Confucianism, and marriage is largely considered to be a secular issue within Buddhism.
During the Enlightenment, many countries in Europe and the broader Western world underwent an intellectual and cultural movement in the late 18th and early 19th centuries. During and after this period, many countries began separating religion from politics and enshrining this in law; for example, France’s 1905 Separation law, the US First Amendment (1791), and India’s Independence Constitution (1947). The separation of church and state creates a secular state in which the legal structures and political framework operate independently and free from religious influence. Though those in power may personally identify as having faith and spiritual beliefs, their beliefs should not influence their public role or the position of power they hold.
The separation not only creates transparency and holds everyone in society to account, but it also means that, whether you identify with the majority or with a minority, you will not be subject to persecution based on your religious beliefs. Another reason for the separation was, in part, history: medieval Europe, the church’s hold over countries, monarchies ruling by divine right, the many religious wars, and periods such as the Spanish Inquisition.
Politics free of religious influence led many countries to adapt and change their laws in line with public perception, including shifts in societal attitudes. With countries decriminalising same-sex relationships and the promotion of inclusive societies, those who previously hid in the shadows were now free to be visible. As the numbers grew, outdated stereotypes and the fear of difference slowly began to unite communities, leading many to question their own values and belief systems.
The paradox relating to intersectionality became a problem for many. There are many people today who might identify as both Gay and as a Christian or as a Muslim. Though for some, their faith and their sexual orientation might be in direct conflict, the same could be said for someone who is devoted, but finds out that a loved one may identify as LGBTQIA+. Faith might be vital to them and their existence, as is the love for their family, children, partners and friends. More progressive faiths, such as certain branches of the Methodist Church and the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America, became more inclusive and more welcoming of the community, encouraging them to become members of their congregations. Some people are LGBTQIA+ and identify as Catholic or Muslim, even though their faith may take a less progressive stance on their lifestyle. As with most faiths, there are different interpretations and theological positions that create a grey space where people can follow their faith without denying who they are.
With growing acceptance, especially since the 1980s, in many regions around the world, especially in Europe, the Americas, and Oceania, many faiths are slowly thawing their positions and stances regarding the community, improving the community’s overall relationship to faith and reducing the conflict many today still face when it comes to their beliefs and lifestyle.
Since the end of World War II, partly due to cultural shifts, the rise of secularism, and scientific advancements, many major denominations have seen a decline in their membership, especially in the Western World. Though declining in some parts of the world, Christianity and Islam have seen significant growth in Africa and parts of Asia. Since the 1980s, there has been a rise in new religious movements and more fundamentalism or militant piety among many followers.
Some countries, particularly in Africa, though they have a clear division between Church and State, have elected leaders and parties that run, in part, on religious policies and a return to so-called traditional values. The rise to power of these parties is seeing the introduction of anti-LGBTQIA+ policies, often citing religious beliefs for the introduction of these hostile policies. Countries that historically may have never had discriminatory laws are now introducing them to persecute, usually against vulnerable groups within the population.
Though many of these laws are hostile and discriminatory, the use of faith to justify them often goes against the broader faith community, including the positions of prominent leaders who are calling for restraint and even the softening of their approach toward the community. The simple truth is often that the use of religion is being weaponised, not because of faith, but because they are playing on people’s fear, prejudice and misinformation about the community, all distracting them from what is really going on in their country, mismanagement, lack of growth and economic hardships.
Though meanings are often misconstrued, with scriptures and texts conveniently misused to reinforce a position or stance, the reality is that, at the core of most religions, lies a spiritual guide to living a good and worthy life. Many religious people, especially those of genuine faith, are good people who, even on occasion, disagree with the positions of faith leaders or with governments that misuse their faith to justify outdated positions or stances. Today, bad actors are hijacking many faiths and using them as a platform to virtual signal their abhorrent views, opinions and positions.
The freedom to follow your beliefs, to follow a faith, is vital for everyone, everywhere around the world, and so is the freedom to love who you love, to live how you choose to live, all without the fear of persecution. Most religions have in common a moral code promoting love and compassion, belief in a higher power, and a sense of community, purpose, and guidance for living a meaningful life. The key is a person’s connection to their faith, which is personal to them and not about standing in judgment, restricting, or persecuting others for how they choose to live and love.
Stay safe, and until the next time.
