Queer hermeneutics is an approach to biblical interpretation that emphasizes the importance of reading Scripture through the lens of marginalized identities, including LGBTQ+ people. It seeks to dismantle the hierarchies that have historically been used to exclude these groups from full participation in the church. One way that queer hermeneutics can achieve this is by reframing doctrines of original sin into narratives of original blessing.
It is important to understand how traditional interpretations of original sin have excluded LGBTQ+ people. According to Augustine's doctrine of original sin, humans are born with a "concupiscence" or sinful desire that is passed down from Adam and Eve. This concupiscence leads to all kinds of sin, including homosexuality, which has been viewed as a form of perversion since ancient times. This interpretation has led many Christians to view same-sex attraction as inherently wrong and immoral, rather than simply another aspect of human nature.
Queer hermeneutics suggests that instead of seeing sexuality as something to be overcome or hidden, it should be celebrated as part of God's creation. God created all humans with unique gifts and talents, including our gender and sexual identities. The Bible tells us that God saw everything he had made, including the human body, as good (Genesis 1:31). As such, sexuality should not be seen as shameful but as a gift to be embraced.
Queer hermeneutics offers an alternative perspective on the story of Adam and Eve. Rather than focusing on their fall from grace, we should see them as the first cisgender heterosexual couple who were tasked with expanding God's kingdom through procreation.
When they disobeyed God, they lost access to this privilege, and other forms of relationship became necessary to continue God's work.
Jesus emphasized the importance of celibacy for those who cannot marry (Matthew 19:12), suggesting that other expressions of intimacy can also bring glory to God.
Queer hermeneutics reminds us that there are many different types of relationships in Scripture, including non-binary ones.
Ruth and Naomi had a deeply loving relationship that was praised by Boaz (Ruth 4:13-17). Similarly, David and Jonathan's friendship (2 Samuel 1:26) shows that platonic love between men can be a holy expression of devotion. These examples demonstrate that human connections come in many shapes and sizes, and none are inherently sinful.
Queer hermeneutics invites Christians to view sexual orientation as part of our unique identities, which can be sanctified through a commitment to God and each other. The Bible calls us to "submit to one another out of reverence for Christ" (Ephesians 5:21), regardless of gender or sexuality. In marriage, spouses are called to give themselves fully to each other and to strive for unity in the Spirit (Ephesians 5:31-33). This applies to all couples, regardless of their sexual identity.
Queer hermeneutics offers a powerful reinterpretation of traditional doctrine that transforms original sin into original blessings. By recognizing the beauty of diversity and the holiness of same-sex attraction, it empowers LGBTQ+ people to live authentically and faithfully within the church community.
How can queer hermeneutics transform doctrines of original sin into narratives of original blessing?
Queer hermeneutics emphasizes the importance of understanding the intersectionality between one's sexuality and their religious identity. It suggests that rather than viewing one's LGBTQ+ identity as inherently sinful or problematic, it can be seen as a unique and valuable part of who they are.