Mystical Teachings Across Traditions Affirm the Sacredness of Non-Normative Identities
Mysticism is an experience that transcends language and logical thought. It involves communion with divine beings, objects, or energies beyond the mundane world. Some people seek to achieve this state through meditation, prayer, ritual, or contemplation. Others believe it comes naturally during moments of deep connection with others. Many traditions emphasize the sacredness of non-normative identities, such as gender fluidity, queerness, polyamory, and kink.
Buddhist teachings celebrate a multitude of genders. Hindu texts affirm the sacredness of homosexuality. Islam promotes LGBTQ+ inclusivity. Native American beliefs honor diverse sexual orientations and practices. Christianity recognizes polyamory. Taoism praises nonconformity. These mystical teachings help us break down binary thinking about identity. They challenge societal norms and promote empathy for all beings.
Gender Fluidity in Buddhism
Buddhism acknowledges three genders - male, female, and "neither." This third category includes intersex individuals who do not identify exclusively as either male or female. The Buddha did not establish these categories. Rather, he taught that they are natural variations of being human. He encouraged his followers to respect and love all sentient beings equally, regardless of their physical characteristics. Today, some Buddhists argue that gender is purely conceptual. Sexual organs alone cannot determine someone's true nature. Instead, we must consider their thoughts, actions, emotions, and intentions. In practice, many Tibetan lamas have had same-gender relationships, while other monks transitioned from man to woman. Some Buddhists believe that everyone has both masculine and feminine qualities within them, making all people innately bisexual. Others insist on the existence of five genders - male, female, neither, both, and unclassified.
Homosexuality in Hinduism
Hinduism emphasizes the importance of devotion to god(s) above all else. It does not condemn homosexuality because it sees no need to define sexuality. Some texts describe Krishna having romantic and sexual encounters with men and women. These stories affirm that desire itself is divine. Other Hindu teachings recognize LGBTQ+ identities and practices.
Arjuna, a prominent warrior, was born male but lived life as a woman after death. Another text describes an intersex person called Shikhandi who became a hero by participating in battles against cisgender men. A common belief holds that anyone can take any form or identity, depending on karma (past deeds). This idea challenges the binary opposition between body and spirit. It suggests that everything we experience is transient and connected to our past lives. Thus, we should treat others respectfully regardless of appearance or behavior.
Islamic LGBTQ+ Inclusivity
Islam accepts that humans are diverse in gender, sex, and orientation. The Qur'an mentions male-male relationships but never explicitly condemns them. Some scholars argue that they were necessary for procreation among the prophets. Modern interpretations stress that everyone deserves dignity, compassion, and justice. Muslims believe that Allah created people unique and perfect, each with their own purpose. They celebrate the beauty of human diversity, including nonconforming genders and sexualities. Many Sufi mystics had same-gender lovers, while others advocated monogamy and chastity. Today, some imams perform same-sex marriages, although this remains controversial. Still, Islam encourages queer individuals to be proud of themselves without judging others. Its emphasis on humility also helps to prevent homophobia and transphobia.
Native American Sexual Orientations
Many Native American tribes recognize and accept diverse sexual orientations.
The Hopi tribe honors two-spirit individuals who embody both masculine and feminine qualities. These individuals serve as healers, spiritual guides, and community leaders. They dress and act like both men and women, often taking part in ceremonies with opposite-sex partners. Two-spirits may marry someone of the same or different gender. This belief system highlights the sacredness of all life forms, including animals, plants, and landscapes. It suggests that humans can connect with anything through love and respect, rather than narrowly defining our identities. Other tribes honor polyamory and kink. The Cherokee practice polygyny (marrying multiple women), while the Navajo celebrate bisexuality. Both traditions stress cooperation and harmony within families and communities.
Polyamory in Christianity
Christianity is known for its conservative views on sex and marriage.
Many early Christians practiced group marriage. Some even believed in Jesus' polyamorous relationship with Mary Magdalene. Later writings condemn these practices, arguing that God created monogamy at creation. Today, many followers believe it is better to remain single or divorce than to engage in extramarital affairs. Still, some congregations have opened their doors to polyamorists, accepting them as members and leaders. Others offer counseling and support services to those seeking alternative relationships. Polyamory affirms the freedom to love openly without shame or fear. It also challenges cultural norms by promoting empathy and compassion towards nonconforming individuals.
Mystical teachings across traditions affirm the sacredness of non-normative identities. They challenge binary thinking about gender, sex, and orientation. These
How do mystical teachings across traditions affirm the sacredness of non-normative identities?
Mystical traditions are believed to offer a different perspective on identity beyond traditional norms and expectations. In these teachings, individuals can discover their true nature as divine beings connected to everything in existence. This may challenge prevailing societal beliefs about who is worthy or unworthy of love, respect, or acceptance based on physical appearance, gender, ethnicity, religion, sexual orientation, etc.