Academic research has shown that many religions around the world have had strict rules regarding sexual behavior, especially for those who do not conform to heterosexual norms.
These rules have varied widely depending on religion, time period, geographic region, and individual interpretations of scripture. In some cases, such as Islam, same-sex sexual practices were severely punished, while in others like Hinduism, they were accepted and even celebrated. In still others, non-heteronormative sexualities were tolerated but not openly discussed, while in yet others, they were completely ignored.
Judaism
In Judaism, the Torah explicitly prohibits homosexual intercourse between men and women, stating that it is "an abomination." This was seen as an affront to God's creation and an act of rebellion against Him. Despite this, there are accounts of same-sex relationships among Jewish people throughout history, including stories of kings and warriors who formed close bonds with other men. There was also a tradition of same-sex unions called "mishkav zakar," which involved two men lying together and rubbing their genitals against each other in a ritualized manner. These unions were not considered marriage, and the men did not live together or share property, but they did receive respect and protection from society.
Christianity
Christianity has historically been more accepting of non-heteronormative sexualities than most other religions, although this acceptance has varied over time and across different denominations. The early Church Fathers argued that non-procreative sex acts were sinful, but later theologians emphasized spiritual rather than physical intimacy. Many medieval Christians believed that same-sex desire was caused by demonic possession and could be exorcised through prayer and fasting.
Some monastic communities allowed for male couples to form "spiritual marriages" without procreation or consummation. In modern times, many Protestant and Catholic churches have embraced LGBTQ+ individuals, while others remain hostile.
Islam
Islam strictly prohibits homosexual behavior, punishing it with death in certain cases. The Quran states that gay men will burn in hellfire, and Sharia law prescribes capital punishment for those caught engaging in sodomy. This has led to widespread persecution of LGBTQ+ people in Muslim countries, where they are often ostracized, beaten, or killed by family members, police, or vigilantes. There is also a tradition of same-sex relationships among Sufi mystics, who believe that love can lead to union with God. These relationships were not always accepted by mainstream society, but they received support from some Sufi teachers.
Hinduism
Hinduism is known for its openness to all forms of sexuality, including polyamory, BDSM, and group sex. Same-sex relationships between women have been documented throughout history, including female lovers of goddesses like Radha and Meera. In addition, the concept of ardhanarishvara (half man, half woman) suggests that gender roles are fluid and interchangeable. While some Hindus still view homosexuality as immoral, there is no specific religious doctrine against it, and many temples celebrate the diversity of human desire.
How are non-heteronormative sexualities understood, ritualized, or prohibited in different religious traditions?
Many religions have their unique ways of understanding, ritualizing, and even prohibiting non-heteronormative sexualities. In some traditional religions such as Christianity and Islam, for example, homosexuality is seen as immoral and sinful behavior that goes against God's divine order.