Can buddhists be gay
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The Concept of Karma and Rebirth
Karma and Sexual Behavior
In Buddhism, karma refers to the law of cause and effect. Teachings often transcend binary notions of identity and emphasize the union of wisdom and compassion.
Buddhism does have five precepts, or rules for behaving in a moral or ethical way, that monastics and some lay practitioners are meant to follow to have a morally good life.
By focusing on reducing suffering and fostering kindness, Buddhism offers a framework that resonates with the values of inclusivity and respect.
As society continues to evolve, Buddhism’s adaptable and compassionate teachings provide valuable guidance for navigating complex issues like sexuality in a way that honors the dignity and humanity of all individuals.
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More than half of Australia’s LGBTQIA+ Buddhists feel reluctant to “come out” to their Buddhist communities and nearly one in six have been told directly that being LGBTQIA+ isn’t in keeping with the Buddha’s teachings.
These are some of the findings from my research looking at the experiences of LGBTQIA+ Buddhists in Australia.
Sexual activity, whether heterosexual or homosexual, is seen as a distraction that can lead to attachment and suffering.
3. Same-sex relationships are often tolerated in daily life but may still be marginalized institutionally or legally. The teachings of the Buddha focus on liberation from suffering and achieving enlightenment. Compassion (karuṇā) plays a central role in ethical judgment.
Instead, its focus lies on ethical conduct, mindfulness, and avoiding harm to others.
The Third Precept in Buddhism, often interpreted as “refraining from sexual misconduct,” is open to interpretation. Sexual activity, regardless of orientation, is considered incompatible with renunciation.
Gender segregation is meant to support practitioners by removing the distraction of “the opposite sex”, but this ignores the experiences of LGBTQIA+ people.
Through insight and practice, desire is understood as empty, conditioned, and fleeting — not a self-defining truth, but a wave that can be skillfully ridden or released.
For many of my survey participants, these efforts have gone a long way to create a greater sense of belonging and community.
This includes both indulgence in craving and rigid moral aversion toward others’ desires. Judging or marginalizing people based on their orientation contradicts the spirit of mettā (loving-kindness) and karuṇā (compassion), which are central to the Buddhist path. The Role of the Sangha (Monastic Community)
Support from the Sangha
Buddhist monks live within a community called the Sangha, where they support each other in their spiritual practice.
I found that some LGBTQIA+ celibate monastics who are “out” have, at times, been encouraged to keep their sexual and gender identities a secret so they would not be denied access to ordination. Rather than moralizing sexuality, Buddhism invites practitioners to reflect on desire with awareness, and to relate to all beings, including LGBTQ+ individuals, with empathy and wisdom.
Contemporary Buddhist responses
In the contemporary world, Buddhist responses to homosexuality vary widely, often reflecting the social and legal climates of their respective countries more than specific doctrinal positions.
Misconduct typically refers to actions that cause harm or violate mutual consent, regardless of sexual orientation.
When the Venerable Daiji (a queer man) lived in a monastery, he was approached by a woman who asked if he was gay and then said: “Then you can’t ordain.