Lets get to the nitty gritty

[seraiaowlady]

Hi,

I just found this group and you may all hate me but I'm about to shake things up a bit.

Just some general background:  I was raised Baha'i in central Wisconsin.  My adult life has led me on a wild journey as I search for the truth.  I've spent years investigating almost every faith out there.  Most of my time was actually checking out pagan

Comments

[sholeh]

First of all, don't assume we'll hate you for bringing up a question

[fresita]

The Faith does not condemn homosexuals. In fact, there are homosexuals who are Baha'is. What the Faith does say not to do is have sexual relations outside of a marriage between a man and a woman. ANY sexual relationship other than that is not condoned.

[aristakawaik]

I've heard this many times before. So, your idea of homosexual Baha'is being stuck with a lifetime of celibacy is technically correct.

It's a tough spot to be in, if you're pro gay rights. I don't know how to advise you; I have had many struggles with the laws of the Faith, this being one of them, and I am still searching for the truth...and not getting very far.

[fresita]

I have plenty of friends who are in their 40s who are Baha'is and never got married and they are also "stuck with a life of celibacy". They didn't get married and have no desire to do so and they know they're not going to date and sleep with people. -shrug- You're going to see and twist things as you please when it's things you don't agree with.

I was the interpreter for ILGA for the UN for quite a while and more than one member of the INTERNATIONAL board has told me that they thought the Faith was the FIRST and ONLY religion that did NOT make them feel persecuted.

[ohmiee]

What classifies as "doing it" in the Faith? Anal sex? Oral sex? Heavy petting? Kissing? Holding hands?

[ohmiee]

no, indeed I actually am curious. this is because I've heard differing statements among Baha'is. I think sex, like love, has many complicated levels of expression. Someone once told me holding hands with a lover was ideally prohibited by Baha'is until marriage, it's just that culturally we permit it. Is that true?

[julietma]

I just wanted to say you're not the first - nor will you be the last - to pose the question here. But it seems you might be one of the more sincere questioners, not just looking to stir the proverbial s***.

My best to you! Allah'u'Abha!