The idea of "holy" is closely tied to human sexuality in many religions. From Hindu deities' erotic poses to Christian teachings about procreation, from Islamic rules on marriages to Buddhist asceticism, sexual acts are often considered sacred and necessary for spiritual growth.
This concept can be challenging for LGBT people whose identities may differ from the normative sexual/gender binary, and who experience rejection, prejudice, or even violence from religious communities that do not accept their gender identities or orientations. To cope with these challenges, some LGBT individuals create new ways of understanding holiness, which may involve redefining sexual behavior, ritual practices, and spiritual beliefs.
One way LGBT people may reconstruct their sense of holiness is by creating alternative religious communities that celebrate queer identities.
Queer Jews, Muslims, Christians, Pagans, and other groups have emerged in recent decades as spaces where LGBT believers can explore faith without fear of being rejected. These communities offer support, guidance, and community building through rituals such as same-sex weddings, transgender blessings, and gender nonconforming celebrations. They also provide space for discussions on how to interpret religious texts that traditionally exclude LGBT people.
Another approach is to find solace in solitary practices that focus on personal growth rather than external validation. Meditation, yoga, prayer, and contemplation are all practices that allow LGBT people to connect with a higher power without worrying about societal expectations or judgment. Some LGBT individuals also engage in activism, advocating for greater inclusion and representation within existing religious institutions or creating secular organizations that promote equality.
A third option is to use the arts to express one's identity and spirituality. From drag performance to queer literature, from music to dance, creative expression allows LGBT people to explore their emotions, share stories, and connect with others who identify as queer and holy. This approach may involve seeking out LGBT artists and allies within mainstream religion or creating new forms of art that challenge traditional norms.
Finding a personal sense of holiness as an LGBT person requires exploring multiple dimensions of sexuality, spirituality, and society. It involves challenging belief systems that exclude LGBT identities while still respecting the values that make religion meaningful. By reconstructing what it means to be holy, LGBT people can create a more inclusive world where everyone has the opportunity to grow spiritually, regardless of their gender identity or orientation.
In what ways do LGBT individuals reconstruct a personal sense of holiness when traditional religious institutions reject them?
Many LGBT individuals have reported feeling marginalized from their communities because of their sexual orientation or gender identity, which can lead to feelings of isolation and alienation. To combat these feelings, some turn to alternative forms of spirituality or create their own rituals that reflect their values and beliefs. Some also find solace in support groups or online forums where they can connect with others who share similar experiences.