How do East Asian religious teachings influence acceptance of sexual orientation diversity, social inclusion, and formation of intimate partnerships?
East Asia is home to many religions that are based on ancient texts that speak about morality, ethics, spirituality, wisdom, and love. These religions include Taoism, Confucianism, Buddhism, Shinto, and Zen.
The most common form of Taoist sexual practice involves the "immortal marriage" between a man and woman who become lovers and teachers. This relationship is considered to be sacred and holy. In Taoism, there is no distinction between heterosexual and homosexual couples - all are equal. The main goal is to attain immortality and become gods. Many Taoists believe that it's possible for same-sex couples to achieve this as well as opposite-sex ones.
Some Taoist sects discourage same-sex relationships because they focus exclusively on heterosexual relationships.
Confucianism emphasizes family values and respect for elders. Marriage is seen as an important institution and is generally viewed as a lifelong commitment between a man and a woman. Confucianism also promotes filial piety, which means respecting one's parents, ancestors, and other elderly relatives. It encourages people to honor their parents even after death by performing rituals at gravesites. Some Confucians believe that homosexuality goes against these values and disrespects parents because it does not result in offspring. Others argue that homosexuality is acceptable if it doesn't interfere with family obligations.
Buddhism teaches about compassion, kindness, and non-attachment to material possessions. It believes that everyone should strive for enlightenment through meditation, selfless action, and right thinking. Buddhism recognizes that sexual desire can lead to suffering but also acknowledges its importance in human life. It encourages monogamy within marriage and condemns adultery, prostitution, and extramarital affairs. Buddhism sees gay sex as natural but warns against lustful thoughts and urges monks to remain celibate.
Shinto is the indigenous religion of Japan and focuses on nature worship and reverence for ancestral spirits. It has no explicit views on sexual orientation or intimate partnerships.
Many Shinto priests are celibate and see sexual desire as something to be suppressed. In addition, some Shinto ceremonies involve naked dancing, which is often considered immoral by conservative Japanese.
Zen emphasizes mindfulness, awareness, and detachment from worldly things. It recognizes the need for human companionship and suggests that all relationships should be based on trust, mutual respect, and understanding. Zen does not promote any specific form of love - romantic, platonic, familial, or otherwise - but stresses the importance of maintaining peace and harmony.
East Asian religious teachings have influenced attitudes towards sexuality and intimacy in different ways depending on the religion and culture. Some religions accept homosexuality while others view it as a sin. All religions stress the importance of family values and morality. While some believe in preserving traditional gender roles, others advocate for equality between genders.
These religions offer valuable insights into how humans can find meaning in their lives through spiritual practice and ethical behavior.
How do East Asian religious teachings influence acceptance of sexual orientation diversity, social inclusion, and formation of intimate partnerships?
There is a long history of heteronormativity and homophobia within many East Asian cultures that has been influenced by Confucianism, Buddhism, Taoism, and other philosophies. The traditional view was that same-sex relationships were immoral and unnatural, leading to exclusion from mainstream society and discrimination against LGBTQ+ individuals.