There has been an increase in scholarship on LGBTQ+ spirituality. This research has highlighted the ways in which religious institutions can be more inclusive to people who identify as queer, including exploring how they may integrate their identities into their faith practices. One area that has received less attention is the role of asceticism in queer lives. Asceticism refers to voluntary abstinence from worldly pleasures such as sensual gratification, wealth, fame, and power for the purpose of attaining spiritual enlightenment.
It can also lead to a denial of self and others, which contradicts the values of many modern religious movements. In this context, I suggest that queer believers reinterpret asceticism as a path of integration rather than denial.
Integration as a Pathway to Wholeness
Asceticism has historically been associated with monastic communities, where individuals live apart from society and focus solely on spiritual pursuits.
Contemporary religious leaders are recognizing the importance of integrating spiritual practice into everyday life, instead of separating it out as something done only by certain individuals. Similarly, queer believers can view asceticism as a way to embrace their sexual identity while remaining devoted to their faith. By practicing non-attachment to earthly desires and focusing on developing inner qualities like compassion and love, they can discover greater wholeness within themselves and in relationships with others.
Redefining Self-Denial
Traditional forms of asceticism emphasize self-denial as a means of achieving spiritual purity.
Monks might renounce marriage, material possessions, or physical pleasure to demonstrate their devotion to God. Queer believers may reject these notions of self-denial in favor of practices that enhance their wellbeing. This could involve using sexual intimacy as a way to connect with others and experience divine presence. Rather than seeing sex as an obstacle to spiritual growth, they can see it as a tool for deepening their understanding of themselves and the world around them.
Reframing Eroticism
Eroticism is often seen as a distraction from spiritual practice, but some scholars suggest that it can be integrated into religious life in meaningful ways. Asceticism can include sexual abstinence as a form of discipline, but it does not have to exclude all aspects of erotic expression. Queer believers who are comfortable with same-sex relationships may find this approach particularly appealing because it allows them to express their sexuality without feeling guilty about it. They can use erotic energy to explore their emotional and physical needs while still honoring their faith commitments.
Embracing Dual Identities
Integrating asceticism into queer lives requires embracing dual identities. Queer individuals may need to reconcile their sexual orientation with their spiritual beliefs, creating a tension between what they desire and what they believe is right.
By reinterpreting asceticism as a pathway to integration rather than denial, they can learn how to balance these two parts of themselves.
They might engage in mindfulness practices to manage their desires without completely suppressing them. They might also participate in community building activities that allow them to share their experiences and learn from one another.
I propose that queer believers can view asceticism as a way to integrate their sexual identity into their faith practices. By redefining self-denial, reframing eroticism, and embracing dual identities, they can discover greater wholeness within themselves and in their relationships with others. This approach challenges traditional notions of monastic life and opens up new possibilities for spiritual growth. It also recognizes the importance of sexuality in human experience and encourages individuals to honor both their sexuality and spirituality.
How might queer believers reinterpret asceticism as a path of integration rather than denial?
One potential way for queer believers to reinterpret asceticism as a path of integration is by exploring the value of moderation and balance in their religious practice. Rather than seeing asceticism as an absolute denial of worldly pleasures, they could view it as a means of cultivating self-control and focus on their relationship with God.