Homosexuality

Homosexuality is a sexual orientation found in humans, bonobos, dolphins and other vertebrate species. In general, homosexuality is described as a sexual attraction towards a member of one's own gender.

Biblical Views on Homosexuality

In the book of Leviticus (18:22) of the King James Version of the Bible is found the following verse:

Thou shalt not lie with mankind, as with womankind: it is abomination.

This has been interpreted by many to be a condemnation of homosexual activity, but due to mistranslations and other errors may instead refer to the use of sexual intercourse to gain dominion over others and not to consenting and loving relationships between couples of the same sex. However the Book of Romans also states that homosexual acts are shameful and indecent between men. The Bible does not mention anything against lesbian sex.

Homosexuality and Marriage

The American Psychiatric Association de-listed homosexuality as a mental disorder in 1973.[1] Since that time, homosexuals have advocated for recognition of their civil rights and for equal protection under the law.

Legal marriage between same-sex couples is now recognized in several European nations as well as in Canada, South Afirca and Massachusetts. In some other states such as Connecticut a more limited recognition of same-sex relationships is available, called a "civil union". Many other states have passed constitutional amendments banning recognition of same-sex marriages performed anywhere and some groups have pushed for Constitutional amendment barring the legal recognition of same-sex marriages.