Many consider the Bible the most influential book in history. It has shaped humanity’s understanding of the world and has shaped the narratives of human discourse — many of which can be problematic for marginalized groups, especially the LGBTQ+ community. However, when evaluating verses of the Bible, the reader must understand the historical context of the verse as well as the semantic changes in translation before making conclusions.

One of the most referenced passages justifying homophobia is in Leviticus 18:22: “You shall not lie with a male as with a woman; it is an abomination.” 

The Book of Leviticus, like much of the Bible, contains a complex mixture of rules, narratives and commandments. When examining the historical context behind the verses related to homosexuality in Leviticus, it’s clear that the situation is not as straightforward as it might seem.

Leviticus 18 is part of the Holiness Code. It outlines various rules and commandments given to the people of Israel, intended to set them apart as a unique nation. These rules encompass various aspects of life, including prohibitions against incestuous relationships, sex during menstruation, adultery, child sacrifice and what many interpret as homosexuality.

The exact meaning of the phrase “lying with a man as with a woman” has been a topic of debate within the scholarly community. Some interpretations suggest that it condemns male-male sexual activity, including penetrative and non-penetrative acts.

In contrast, some scholars argue that the wording, given the historical context, is indicative of something else. They emphasize the honor-shame dynamics prevalent in the ancient world, where being penetrated by another man was seen as demeaning. 

Jason Staples, an assistant teaching professor in the Department of Philosophy and Religious Studies at NC State, explained this perspective and the idea of an honor-shame role. 

“Leviticus, part of what is going on there is that this passage is actually about male honor for a man to be penetrated by another man in that context is actually doing dishonor to that man,” Staples said. “So in an honor-shame context … the reason that it’s an abomination is that it’s essentially treating a man as a woman and women are obviously [seen as] lower than men [at this time].”

In addition to Leviticus, several passages in the New Testament are often cited as condemning homosexuality.

One of the most discussed verses is found in 1 Corinthians 6:9-10: “Do you not know that the wicked will not inherit the kingdom of God? Do not be deceived: Neither the sexually immoral nor idolaters nor adulterers nor male prostitutes nor homosexual offenders nor thieves nor the greedy nor drunkards nor slanderers nor swindlers will inherit the kingdom of God.”

This verse’s semantics are tricky as well. 

In 1 Corinthians 6:9, the Greek transliterated phrase “oute malakoi oute arsenokoitai.” “Malakoi” can have various meanings but often signifies “soft” or “effeminate.” In 1 Corinthians 6:9, it likely refers to the passive partner in homosexual intercourse. 

As for “arsenokoitai,” it’s a compound word meaning “men who have sexual intercourse with other males” and has a more specific reference to the active partner in homosexual acts. This interpretation aligns with historical and literary contexts, showing that both “malakoi” and “arsenokoitai” refer to participants in homosexual sex.

Thus, this may refer back to the power dynamics of the Bible. Paul is condemning the passive partner of homosexual sex, likely due to the idea that the one who receives is considered feminine. 

Given the complexity of these Bible verses, it’s essential for individuals to approach this language with an open and thoughtful mind. Jumping to conclusions without a thorough examination of historical context and interpretation can potentially lead to misunderstandings and offense, particularly for members of the LGBTQ+ community. 

We should look to foster healthy conversations between the LGBTQ+ community and the church, and Staples emphasized the need for these meaningful conversations.

“I think everything has to start with a mutual recognition that as human beings, we are inherently valuable,” Staples said. “If we have respect for one another in that respect and … recognize one another’s value, then we can disagree on a lot of different things.” 

In a much larger sense, quoting the Bible to justify anything can be problematic because it often fails to consider the comprehensive narrative of the story. The Bible is a collection of texts that spans different time periods, cultures and historical contexts, making it essential to examine the entire context to fully grasp its intended meaning.

Nowadays, this idea is more understood, and there are great churches in the area that are more inclusive to all members of the LGBTQ+ community. Raleigh Mennonite Church, Church of the Good Shepherd, Pullen Memorial Baptist Church and Holy Trinity Evangelical Lutheran Church are all churches that focus on including the LGBTQ+ community.