Theological discussions about holiness have been preoccupied with issues of purity and impurity for centuries. This has led to the exclusion of many marginalized groups, including LGBTQ+ people from theological discourse.
Some queer theologians argue that holiness is experienced through embodiment and intersubjectivity rather than purity. In this essay, I will explore how queer theologians can articulate holiness without purity by drawing on their experiences of embodiment and relationship.
Holiness is often associated with purity and cleanliness. Purity is seen as a means of maintaining a distance between human beings and God, who is supposedly pure. Queer theology challenges this view by emphasizing the importance of embodiment in experiencing holiness. Embodiment involves understanding ourselves as physical beings in relation to other bodies.
Queer theologian Kwok Pui Lan argues that "holiness emerges out of embodied encounters" and is found in moments of intimacy and connection.
Queer theology emphasizes intersubjective relationships as a source of holiness. Intersubjectivity refers to the experience of being present to another subject or object. It encompasses all forms of communication, from verbal language to bodily gestures. Queer theologian Sharon R. Rosenberg explains that holiness arises from "being-with" others, which involves empathy and vulnerability. By recognizing our interconnectedness, we can experience holiness in our relationships with other humans, animals, plants, and even objects.
Queer theologians suggest that holiness can be experienced through eroticism. Eroticism is not just about sexual pleasure but also encompasses desire, longing, and affection. Eroticism can take many forms, including sensual touch, tactile exploration, and visual stimulation. According to queer theologian Carter Heyward, eroticism allows us to connect with each other on a deeper level, leading to greater intimacy and spiritual transformation.
Queer theologians argue that holiness does not require purity but rather requires authenticity. Authenticity means living fully and truthfully in one's body and relationships. This includes accepting our flaws, imperfections, and desires without shame. By embracing our whole selves, we can experience holiness in every aspect of life, from sex to work to play.
Queer theology challenges traditional views of holiness by focusing on embodiment, relationship, eroticism, and authenticity. By rejecting purity as a measure of holiness, these theologians open up new ways of understanding God and ourselves. Through embodied encounters, relational connection, erotic engagement, and authentic self-expression, we can experience holiness in all aspects of our lives.
How can queer theologians articulate holiness without purity?
Queer theologians have long sought to challenge traditional notions of purity within Christianity, which often privilege heteronormativity and cisnormativity as ideal expressions of holiness. Instead, they argue that holiness cannot be defined solely by sexual orientation or gender identity, but must include all forms of embodiment and relationality.