Historical Background
Bulgarian Orthodox Christianity is one of the oldest forms of Eastern Christianity, tracing its roots back to the early centuries of the Common Era. It has played an important role in shaping the cultural, spiritual, and political landscape of Bulgaria for over a thousand years. In recent decades, however, it has faced challenges from modernization, globalization, and secularization. One area where these pressures have been particularly evident is in attitudes towards same-sex erotic desires.
In traditional Bulgarian society, heterosexual marriage was seen as the only acceptable form of human sexual expression, and homosexuality was viewed as a sinful perversion that threatened both individual salvation and social order. This view was reinforced by the Church's teaching that sex outside of marriage was forbidden, and that all sexual activity should be confined within the context of procreative relationships between men and women.
Contemporary Perspectives
Today, however, there are a number of different views among Bulgarian Orthodox Christians regarding how same-sex erotic desires should be navigated. Some see them as unnatural or immoral, while others believe they can be reconciled with religious teachings through a process of transformation and repentance. Still others argue that same-sex eroticism is simply a part of human nature that cannot be changed and must be accepted within certain limits.
Psychological Approaches
One psychological approach emphasizes the need for individuals to recognize and accept their own sexual orientation. According to this perspective, suppressing same-sex desire can lead to negative consequences such as depression, anxiety, and low self-esteem. It also argues that denying one's true identity can interfere with intimacy and authentic relationships with others.
Moral Arguments
Some Orthodox Christians maintain that same-sex erotic desires are inherently immoral and incompatible with Biblical teachings about sexuality. They point to passages like Leviticus 18:22 ("You shall not lie with a male as with a woman; it is an abomination"), which condemns homosexual acts as sinful. This view has been criticized by LGBTQ+ advocates who argue that these verses were written in a specific cultural context and do not necessarily apply today.
Social Dimensions
At the social level, there have been calls to reform the Church's stance on same-sex relationships. Proponents of this viewpoint cite recent studies showing that homophobia and discrimination are linked to higher rates of mental health problems among gay and lesbian people, as well as increased violence and inequality. Others argue that legal recognition of same-sex unions would benefit society by promoting equality, diversity, and tolerance.
Many Bulgarian Orthodox leaders remain opposed to any change in doctrine or practice regarding sexual morality.
Navigating same-sex eroticism within Orthodox Christian frameworks presents a complex challenge for both individuals and communities. While some see it as a personal struggle requiring spiritual transformation, others view it as an essential part of human nature that should be accepted with limits.
The debate will continue to play out against a backdrop of shifting attitudes towards gender and sexuality in modern Bulgaria.
How are same-sex erotic desires morally, psychologically, and socially navigated within Orthodox Bulgarian religious frameworks?
Bulgarian society is generally conservative when it comes to sexuality, regardless of orientation. According to data from Pew Research Center, 80% of Bulgarians think that homosexuality should not be accepted by society. Same-sex relationships are not officially recognized as marriages, nor can they adopt children. Although some progress has been made regarding LGBT rights in recent years (e. g.