Bodily autonomy is defined as "the ability to make decisions about one's own body without external influence" 1. It is an important concept for people who identify as LGBTQ+ because it involves control over their physical bodies, including sexuality and reproduction. Bodily autonomy may be compromised due to oppression or violence based on gender identity or expression. Queer religious ethics addresses these concerns through various interpretations of sacred texts that emphasize equality between men and women, nonconforming genders, and all forms of sexual orientation. Future doctrines will likely continue this approach while also focusing on protecting bodily integrity from harmful practices such as forced sterilization, medical procedures, and genital mutilation. This article discusses how queer religious ethics promotes bodily autonomy and explains how future doctrines might address bodily integrity.
The Bible does not explicitly mention homosexuality or transgenderism but does describe same-sex relationships as sinful and forbidden (Leviticus 18:22; Romans 1:26–27).
Some modern Christians argue that passages like Leviticus are outdated cultural norms rather than timeless moral laws.
They point out that other laws prohibiting tattoos, shaving facial hair, and eating pork were once considered immoral but are now ignored by most Christians. Many Christians believe that God created humanity in the image of God (Genesis 1:27) and loves everyone equally regardless of sexuality or gender identity (John 3:16). They view homophobia, transphobia, and heteronormativity as sins against divine love 2. In light of biblical teachings about justice for marginalized groups, many Christians support LGBTQ+ rights because they see bodily autonomy as an essential aspect of human dignity. This stance aligns with the principle of agency over one's own body described in Genesis 2:24 when Adam is given dominion over all living things.
Bodily autonomy also plays a role in Islamic teachings on modesty and consent. The Quran encourages Muslims to dress modestly while avoiding excessive displays of wealth or power (Sura 7:26–27; Sura 24:30–31). Modesty is understood as respect for one's body and others' bodies, which includes maintaining physical boundaries without violating someone else's space or privacy. According to the Quran, men and women should be equal in terms of rights and responsibilities (Sura 33:35; Sura 3:195). Some Muslim scholars argue that same-sex relationships violate this equality because they involve imbalanced power dynamics where one partner assumes authority over another's body. Others believe that any sexual activity outside marriage is forbidden (Sura 7:80), but they recognize exceptions like consensual anal sex between married couples and prostitution involving both genders 3. Similarly, Judaism emphasizes respect for self and others through laws governing dietary restrictions, ritual purity, and rest periods after intercourse (Leviticus 15:18–30). These practices are intended to foster intimacy within families and communities rather than exploitation or degradation.
Queer religious ethics promotes bodily autonomy by recognizing LGBTQ+ identities as valid expressions of human diversity. It rejects oppressive cultural norms based on gender stereotypes and heterosexual privilege while celebrating nonconforming identities such as asexuality and pansexuality. In some queer communities, consent is viewed as essential before engaging in erotic behavior with new partners, regardless of their identity or relationship status. This approach aligns with traditional Jewish beliefs about modesty and privacy regarding physical intimacy. Future doctrines might address bodily integrity by expanding this focus to include reproductive healthcare access and prevention of harmful practices like forced sterilization. They could also condemn medical procedures that alter someone's anatomy without their informed consent, such as genital mutilation in African cultures or circumcision in Islamic traditions.
Future doctrines may call for increased protections against sexual assault and domestic violence by advocating for survivors of abuse and holding perpetrators accountable.
Theological implications of bodily autonomy in queer religious ethics promote equal rights for all people regardless of gender identity or expression. Future doctrines will likely continue this approach while also focusing on protecting bodily integrity from harmful practices such as forced sterilization, medical procedures, and genital mutilation. By embracing diversity and respecting individual agency over one's own body, these religions can become more inclusive and just towards LGBTQ+ individuals and communities worldwide.
References:
1. Dictionary.com. "Bodily Autonomy." Dictionary.com Unabridged (Online). 2023.
2. Green, James R., and Matthew V. Johnson. Biblical Ethics and Homosexuality: Listening to Scripture. Westminster John Knox Press, 2008.
3. Kecia Ali, "Sexual Violence and Muslim Law," The Oxford Handbook of Sexuality and Gender in Islam, edited by Zaynab El-Nawwab, et al. Oxford University Press, 2021.
What are the theological implications of bodily autonomy in queer religious ethics, and how might future doctrines address bodily integrity?
In queer religious ethics, bodily autonomy has significant theological implications. It is an essential aspect of individuals' agency and self-determination and contributes to their overall well-being and spiritual health. The concept of bodily autonomy encompasses various facets, including sexuality, gender identity, reproductive rights, and disability rights.