Buddhism takes it's roots from the ancient teachings of Siddhartha Gautama also known as The Buddha. The years he lived and taught are unknown however many believe the dates of his life range from 566-480 BCE. Buddhism teaches The five percepts are ethical practices not commandments they should should be followed at all times. These include abstaining from lying, stealing, harming others, sexual misconduct, and consuming intoxicants. Buddhism main focus is the relaxing of the mind and body. Wisdom also plays a major role within the religion and philosophy.
General attitude towards homosexuality, and same sex marriage:
Buddha never discussed or taught about homosexuality. The percept that discusses sexual misconduct does not mention homosexuality. It focus more on sexual misconduct and adultery. Most Buddhist take there beliefs on homosexuality form the culture in which they are raised. According to the paper "Gender and Sexual Discrimination in Popular Thai Buddhism" by Kulavir P. Pipat, "homosexuality is seen as the result of bad karma accumulated in past lives..."
In the United States Buddhism is a very popular religion because of it's involvement in self study and the understanding one's own self.
Buddhism: An Intrduction
Religious Tolerance: Buddhism
The Big View
Gender and Sexual Discrimination in Popular Thai Buddhism
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