Gay buddhist

GBF is a non-denominational sangha based in San Francisco, California that attracts teachers from all schools of Buddhism to offer their perspectives on the intersection of dharma and queer life in modern times. The relationship between Buddhism and sexual orientation varies by tradition and teacher. According to some scholars, early Buddhism appears to have placed no special stigma on homosexual relations, since the subject was not mentioned.

[1] It is likely that Chinese Buddhism was influenced by Confucian norms prohibiting homosexual marriage. Although there is no general consensus with regard to sexual orientation and gender identity within Buddhism, overall the third precept is most often referenced when discussing gay, lesbian, bisexual, transgender and queer issues.

The Dalai Lama, the leader of Tibetan Buddhism has campaigned against prejudice toward homosexuals, but at the same time has adopted a religious view against non-procreative sex: “Homosexuality, whether it is between men or between women, is not improper in itself. Is being Gay wrong in Buddhism? A monk shares his encounter with a Buddhist practitioner and how it is important to give wise advice according to the teachings of the Buddha.

Based on the teachings of Siddhartha Gautama, Buddhism is considered a way of life for more than million individuals across the globe. The fourth largest religion in the world, Buddhism is largely built on concepts that foster individual enlightenment and encourage personal responsibility. It is sometimes described more as a philosophy or psychology than a religion.

can buddhists be gay

Though it is impossible to present a comprehensive overview of Buddhism within this context, we hope this brief overview will lead you to further explore the religion. Though varied in practice and beliefs, the majority of individuals who subscribe to Buddhism belong to one of three major schools of thought: Theravada Buddhism, Mahayana Buddhism or Vajrayana Buddhism.

Theravada Buddhism, also known as Southern Buddhism, is viewed as the more traditional form of Buddhism. Practiced primarily in southern areas of Asia, Theravada Buddhism is considered the oldest and most traditional school of the three. Conversely, Mahayana Buddhism, also known as Northern Buddhism, is considered a more diverse form of Buddhism, whereas Vajrayana Buddhism, also known as Tibetan Buddhism, incorporates major aspects of both Theravada and Mahayana Buddhism and has become a much-revered form of Buddhism in the United States.

The basis for all schools of Buddhism includes the Three Universal Seals premise of existence , the Four Noble Truths philosophical enlightenment , the 12 Links of Dependent Origination laws of existence and the Eight-Fold Path guide to enlightenment. As a branch of the Eight-Fold Path, the Five Precepts serve as voluntary guidelines for life and are the bases of Buddhist morality. Although there is no general consensus with regard to sexual orientation and gender identity within Buddhism, overall the third precept is most often referenced when discussing gay, lesbian, bisexual, transgender and queer issues.

The Vinyana, a Buddhist text for monks, forbids Buddhist monks and nuns from having sexual relationships with men, women and those of other genders, such as pandanka interpreted as those with indeterminate sexual characteristics or people who do not conform to sexual norms, such as prostitutes.

This practice is especially common within Theravada Buddhism, which focuses heavily on the monastic tradition. Zen Buddhism does not make a distinction between same-sex and opposite-sex relationships. Instead, the expectation is not to harm, exploit or manipulate others, which would directly violate the third precept. Hence, most Buddhist literature indicates that opposition to or support for marriage rights for same-sex couples is a personal, rather than religious, statement.

Because Buddhism in the U. By clicking "GO" below, you will be directed to a website operated by the Human Rights Campaign Foundation, an independent c 3 entity. To learn more, please read our Privacy Policy. Accept More Information. Share on Bluesky Threads LinkedIn Facebook Email Based on the teachings of Siddhartha Gautama, Buddhism is considered a way of life for more than million individuals across the globe.

I will attempt to treat all beings with compassion and loving kindness. Aware of the suffering caused by theft: I undertake the training to refrain from stealing — to refrain from taking what is not freely given. Aware of the suffering caused by sexual misconduct: I undertake the training to refrain from using sexual behavior in ways that are harmful to myself and to others.

I will attempt to express my sexuality in ways that are beneficial and bring joy. Aware of the suffering caused by harmful speech: I undertake the training to refrain from lying, from harsh speech, from idle speech or gossip. I will attempt to speak and write in ways that are both truthful and appropriate. Aware of the suffering caused by alcohol and drugs: I undertake the training to refrain from misusing intoxicants that dull and confuse the mind.

I will attempt to cultivate a clear mind and an open heart. Resources BuddhaNet. Buddhist Information. Dalai Lama. Religious Tolerance.