Comments on: Buddhism and Homosexuality

By: Christopher Wick

Christopher Wick — Sun, 31 Jul 2011 05:32:58 +0000

I feel this instruction to be very rewarding in regard to sexual behavior. I would take it that if you are attracted to someone of the same sex, feel love and joy for their presence and your own in union with one another, that your intent is to seek enlightenment in this joy, and agreement with the other, it would follow that to be sexual with someone of the opposite sex who do not feel these things for would be sexual misconduct. Thank you, I am humbled and grounded in light of reason and compassion.

By: Brian Schell

Brian Schell — Sat, 06 Dec 2008 15:48:44 +0000

Thank you!

Like everything else, you’ll find differing opinions if you go from one sangha to another. “Sexual Misconduct” is also partially determined by the local culture. There are regions in the USA, for example, where homosexuality is very common and mostly accepted by all, while other places… not so much. The local Buddhists are likely to have similar opinions to their neighbors.

I was actually a little surprised to hear the Dalai Lama’s opinion on the subject. I guess if you take into consideration his age, background and political situation, I guess it makes sense, but the majority of Buddhist leaders seem to be more willing to say that it’s acceptable.

By: Jazz

Jazz — Sat, 06 Dec 2008 14:51:31 +0000

Hey Brian, I’ve re-read this post several times, just thinking about it. I really appreciate the way you cover this topic. As a lesbian I’ve wondered about homosexuality and Buddhism. I grew up in the Christian church and the damage and pain was/is unbelievable. Hearing a good friend of mine, in sunday school class, declare that homosexuals were not even worthy to hear the gospel cut through me like nothing else. I was just coming out and that messed things up for me. Even tho Buddhism doesn’t declare “Welcome Gays” (or whatever), I feel it doesn’t point us out as evil either. And the Dalai Lama, while maybe not fully understand the gay thing, urges to treat us (everyone for that matter) with respect. That means a lot.

I stopped apologizing a long time ago for being gay, or trying to find reason. But, to say it isn’t in the forefront when I make decision or have to listen to the hate that is thrown around, would be lying. One of the hardest and most devastating prejudices that gays must deal with is internal homophobia. Hopefully, you have helped to plant the seed and cultivate healing. Thank you.