Buddha

Although I've never been a religious individual (mostly because of the

wholly unacceptable constraints that it usually seeks to place on my

lifestyle), I continue to find myself strangely drawn towards Buddhism.

Having lived in Asia for a while now I've visited many temples whose

enviroment I found calming and strangely 'spiritual'. I've also spoken with

a couple of monks whose whole approach to life left me feeling pretty

happy about life, myself and my relationships with others. It certainly

was a stark contrast to what I had experienced in the past of Roman

Catholic dogma.

So what did Buddha say about homosexuality? Actually nothing. But he did

lay down certain teachings (which of course are open to interpretation) regarding

sexual conduct / misconduct. Thervada Buddhism is probably the most agreeable

to my mind but I've yet to find an actual branch of Buddhism that outlaws queer

love but then again I could be wrong.

Theravada Buddhism:
This is one of the largest divisions of Buddhism. It is also known as

the "Southern" School. The Buddha formulated 5 precepts of Right Conduct

One of these is: "I undertake to observe the precept to abstain from

sexual misconduct" The Buddha did not specifically define the term

"sexual misconduct."

However, he did stress the importance of "above all, do no harm to

others or to oneself" Some Buddhists conclude that sexual misconduct

would include adultery, child molestation, incest, rape, sexual abuse in

any form, and sexual harassment. Further, consensual sexual activity by

a committed couple is not misconduct (whether engaged in by a heterosexual

or homosexual couple).

From the Theravada Buddhist standpoint, all relationships: gay, lesbian

or straight, are considered personal matters of mutual consent. If a

relationship promotes the happiness and well-being of both parties, then it is

positive and acceptable.

Many Buddhists believe that sexual orientation is beyond a person's control

as are race and gender. They feel that gays and lesbians should have the same

civil rights and benefits as do all other people.

Buddhist leaders have generally interpreted coercive sex, sexual harassment,

child molestation and adultery to be sexual misconduct. But heterosexual or

homosexual consensual sex within a relationship is acceptable.

Sounds about right to me.....