Zariatul Hafsa

Homosexuality is a sexual orientation in which an individual feels romantic or sexual attraction toward people of the same gender. Homosexuality is categorized into two types: gay refers to homosexual men, and lesbian refers to homosexual women. According to modern psychology and medical science, homosexuality is not a mental illness, and in 1973, the American Psychiatric Association (APA) removed it from the list of mental disorders.
History of Homosexuality
Historical analysis shows that homosexuality has existed since ancient times. It has been present in Mesopotamian, Greek, and Roman civilizations and has continued through the medieval and modern eras. In Islam, the story of the people of Prophet Lut (A.S.) serves as a dreadful example of the consequences of homosexuality. In ancient Greece, a form of homosexual relationship was known as Pederasty.
Law & Social Acceptance
Although homosexuality is legally accepted in some countries such as the USA, India, and several Western nations, it remains a punishable crime in many others, including Saudi Arabia, Iran, and Afghanistan. In Bangladesh, homosexuality is legally prohibited under Section 377 of the Penal Code.
Causes of Homosexuality
Psychologists believe that genetic, environmental, and social factors may contribute to the development of homosexuality. However, these are not the sole causes. While it is not classified as a mental disorder, it is considered a deviation that can push an individual away from religious, social, natural, and moral principles.
Perspectives on Homosexuality
1. Religious Perspective:
Most major religions, including Islam, Christianity, Hinduism, and Buddhism, do not endorse homosexuality.
a)Islamic View: Homosexuality is strictly prohibited in Islam. The Qur’an narrates the destruction of the people of Prophet Lut (A.S.) as divine punishment for engaging in homosexuality.
Allah says,
"So when Our command came, We turned that town upside down and rained down upon it layered stones of hard clay." (Surah Hud 11:82-83)
Allah also says,
"Do you indeed approach men with desire instead of women? Rather, you are a people behaving ignorantly." (Surah An-Naml 27:55)
b)Christianity: Homosexuality is regarded as a sin in Christianity. The Bible states:
"You shall not lie with a male as with a woman; it is an abomination." (Leviticus 18:22)
c)Hinduism: While Hindu scriptures do not extensively discuss homosexuality, some texts condemn it. The Manusmriti (8:370) states:
"If a man engages in sexual relations with another man, he must undergo severe penance."
2. Natural Perspective:
Some arguments against homosexuality from a natural viewpoint include:
a)Reproductive Incompatibility: Homosexual relationships do not lead to natural reproduction, which contradicts the biological and evolutionary purpose of life.
b)Animal Behavior: Studies show that certain species, such as dolphins, monkeys, lions, and penguins, exhibit homosexual behaviors. However, these are often temporary and instinct-driven, unlike human behavior, which is based on rationality and morality.
3. Social Perspective:
Various social arguments discourage homosexuality.
a)Weakening of Family Structures: Since same-sex couples cannot naturally have children, they often adopt. However, research suggests that children raised in same-sex households may face psychological and emotional challenges due to the absence of a traditional parental structure.
b)Mental Health Concerns: Studies have shown that suicide, depression, and anxiety rates are higher among homosexual individuals compared to heterosexuals.
From these arguments, it is evident that homosexuality is a social issue that, if allowed to spread uncontrollably, may lead to serious religious, social, and natural consequences. However, it is important to approach homosexual individuals with empathy rather than hatred and to raise awareness about its implications in a constructive way.
Prevention and Solutions:
Several measures can be taken to address and prevent homosexuality:
1. Strengthening religious and moral values
2. Providing counseling and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)
3. Promoting a positive outlook on male-female relationships
4. Enhancing family and social education
5. Encouraging strong family bonding and marital relationships
6. Providing healthy recreational activities
Homosexuality is a sensitive and multifaceted issue with diverse consequences. Therefore, society should take collective steps to prevent its spread while also treating homosexual individuals with compassion. By guiding them toward a better path, we can contribute to a healthier life.

The writer is student, Institute of Social Welfare and Research, University of Dhaka
Member, Bangladesh Tarun Column Lekhok Forum, Dhaka University branch.She can reached at 
Email: zariatulhafsa22@gmail.com