Sunni and Shia Muslims both believe that homosexuality is haram (forbidden) and sinful according to Islamic law.
Their interpretations of how this affects the lives of LGBT individuals are different. In Sunni Islam, gay people may be subject to punishment under shariah (Islamic law), but there is no explicit mention of them being excluded from society or denied basic human rights. On the other hand, Shia Islam considers homosexual acts to be worse than murder and has developed a system of social stigma against LGBT individuals that leads to discrimination and violence. This difference in interpretation can have profound effects on the lived experiences of LGBT individuals who identify as either Sunni or Shia.
For more details about the differences between Sunni and Shia interpretations regarding LGBT inclusion, read the next section.
Section 1: Differences in Interpretation
Sunnis generally take a less strict approach towards homosexuality than Shias, believing that it is an act rather than a condition and that those who commit such acts should be punished accordingly. They do not believe that LGBT individuals should be rejected or isolated from society. Instead, they focus on counseling and rehabilitation to help them overcome their desires and return to heteronormative behavior. The Quran states that those who engage in sodomy will suffer in hell, but this does not necessarily mean that they will face physical harm or death for their actions. In contrast, Shiites consider homosexuality to be a disease that must be eradicated through any means necessary, including imprisonment, public shaming, torture, and even execution. They believe that LGBT people are "deviants" who threaten the moral fabric of society and deserve harsh treatment.
Section 2: Effects on Lived Experiences
The differing approaches to homosexuality within Islam have significant impacts on the lives of LGBT individuals. Sunnis may experience less social isolation and discrimination than Shias, but they still face challenges in finding acceptance and support. Some families disown or even physically abuse their children if they discover they are gay, while others struggle with internalized shame and fear of persecution. Sunni leaders also tend to oppose legal protections for LGBT rights, arguing that they conflict with religious law. On the other hand, Shia communities often subject LGBT people to extreme forms of mistreatment, such as beatings, forced marriages, and exile from their homes. This can lead to mental health problems, substance abuse, and suicide attempts.
The differences between Sunni and Shia interpretations of homosexuality can greatly affect the lives of LGBT individuals. While both groups view it as sinful and punishable under Islamic law, Sunni Muslims take a more compassionate approach towards those who engage in such acts, while Shiites consider them to be deviant and deserving of severe punishment. The effects of this difference can range from increased social isolation to physical violence and legal discrimination.
What differences exist between Sunni and Shia interpretations regarding LGBT inclusion, and how do they affect lived experiences?
One of the most fundamental differences between Sunni and Shia interpretations is that Sunni Islam believes that homosexuality is forbidden as it goes against God's laws, while Shia Islam sees it as an abominable sin that should be punished with death. The Sunnis believe that Allah has created men and women differently for reproduction purposes only, making any sexual activity outside of this purpose prohibited.