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what does the bible say about sodomy

The Bible addresses sodomy—often interpreted as male same-sex sexual acts—in several key passages, primarily condemning it as an abomination under Old Testament law. These verses form the core of traditional Christian views on the topic. Interpretations vary across denominations, with some seeing them as timeless moral prohibitions and others as culturally specific.

Key Old Testament Verses

Leviticus explicitly prohibits male same-sex relations:

  • Leviticus 18:22 : "You shall not lie with a male as with a woman; it is an abomination."
  • Leviticus 20:13 : "If a man lies with a male as with a woman, both of them have committed an abomination; they shall surely be put to death."

The story of Sodom and Gomorrah in Genesis 19 is frequently linked to sodomy, depicting attempted gang rape by men of Sodom against male visitors (angels), leading to the cities' destruction by fire. Ezekiel 16:49-50 adds context, citing Sodom's sins as pride, excess, idleness, and failure to help the poor, though later verses imply "abominations" including sexual ones.

New Testament References

  • Romans 1:26-27 : Describes men and women exchanging natural relations for unnatural ones, "consumed with passion for one another, men committing shameless acts with men".
  • 1 Corinthians 6:9-10 : Lists "men who practice homosexuality" (or "sodomites" in some translations) among those who will not inherit the kingdom of God.
  • Jude 1:7 : References Sodom and Gomorrah for "sexual immorality and pursued strange flesh," suffering eternal fire as an example.

Diverse Interpretations

Modern debates highlight context:

  • Some scholars argue Leviticus targets idolatry or temple prostitution, not consensual relationships.
  • Others maintain a blanket prohibition on all same-sex acts, including anal sex within or outside marriage.
  • Forum discussions, like on Reddit, show polarized views: traditionalists call it sin, while progressives question cultural applications or emphasize love.

TL;DR : The Bible consistently portrays sodomy as sinful and detestable, rooted in Leviticus and echoed in the New Testament, though contemporary readings differ. Information gathered from public forums or data available on the internet and portrayed here.