Queerness is an important aspect of human identity that has been largely ignored and suppressed throughout history. It refers to people who identify themselves outside the traditional gender binary of male/female, including those who are transgender, intersex, agender, non-binary, and genderqueer.
Queerness also encompasses sexual orientation, such as being gay, lesbian, bisexual, pansexual, asexual, demisexual, and polyamorous. Queer believers may find it challenging to reconcile their faith with their identities, especially when it comes to divine transcendence. This article will explore how queer believers can reclaim divine transcendence within their bodies rather than beyond them, providing a more holistic and empowering approach to spirituality.
The Christian tradition teaches that God created humans in His image, but this image includes both physical and spiritual aspects. The body is the temple of the Holy Spirit, and the soul is the seat of consciousness and morality. As such, Christians believe that God created all humans equally and lovingly, regardless of their gender or sexual orientation.
Some churches have perpetuated harmful attitudes towards queer people, causing them to feel excluded from the Church's message of love and acceptance. This can lead to feelings of isolation and shame, making it difficult for them to experience divine transcendence fully.
One way for queer believers to reclaim divine transcendence is through embodiment practices. These include mindfulness meditation, yoga, tai chi, qigong, and other forms of movement that emphasize breathwork and bodily awareness. By connecting with their bodies and cultivating self-love, they can reconnect with their true selves and access divine energy within themselves. Embodied spirituality recognizes that the body is an integral part of the spiritual journey, not something separate from it.
Another way to reclaim divine transcendence is through eroticism. Many religions consider sex to be sinful or taboo, but sexual intimacy between consenting adults is a natural expression of human desire. Queer believers may choose to explore BDSM, polyamory, kink, and other non-monogamous relationships that challenge traditional norms and expand their understanding of love and pleasure. They can also engage in solo play, using masturbation or other forms of self-pleasure as a way to connect with their bodies and celebrate their unique desires.
Queer believers can reclaim divine transcendence by exploring new ways to express their spirituality. Some churches have been slow to embrace LGBTQ+ people, but there are alternative communities and organizations that offer support and guidance. This includes queer-affirming religious groups, such as Metropolitan Community Churches and the Gay Christian Network, which promote inclusivity and social justice. By joining these communities and supporting each other, queer believers can find solace and inspiration in their faith journeys.
Queerness encompasses both gender identity and sexual orientation, making it challenging for some believers to reconcile with their faith.
Embodiment practices, eroticism, and alternative community building can help them reclaim divine transcendence within themselves rather than seeking it elsewhere. These approaches empower queer believers to live authentically and holistically, connecting with God through every aspect of their being.
How can queer believers reclaim divine transcendence as found within, not beyond, the body?
Queer believers have reclaimed divine transcendence by recognizing that God is present in their bodies and that they need to embrace their identity rather than ignore it. This means that they should not look at their sexuality and gender as something wrong or sinful but instead view them as gifts from God. Queer believers should accept themselves for who they are and realize that there is no shame in being queer.