On Hinduism

Simple answers to your questions on Hinduism are provided here.
Use the search button (top right on desktop, top left on smartphones) to find specific topics of interest. At the bottom of each answer, check the “Tags” section for related topics. To learn more about this Q&A project, click [here].

You can also download an earlier collection: 300QAs on Hinduism (PDF). Thank you.

02. God Forms

In non-Indic and Western parlance, Brahman’s loose translation and interpretation as “God” raises the natural question of it being male or female, which for Hindus is not an inquiry.  The recognition of the divinity of the eternal truth (Brahman) has many conduits, which may have a gendered identity.  Most often, these are the deities that represent aspects of the Brahman and have both male and female identities. 

Gender is related to a physical body. Brahman is an all-pervading cosmic life force that is genderless and formless.  Brahman in a male body and Brahman in a female body–that is how Hindus see the Brahman.  Brahman (God) is a genderless cosmic life force.


Other reading material: 

Relevant videos: Swami Nikhil Anand 

Contributor: Rajeev Singh

Location of this post (2a): https://www.hinduspeakers.org/ufaqs/are-you-a-hindu-when-someone-clicks-here-it-will-open-up-full-write-up-below/

Category: 02. God Forms

30. LGBTQ

Hindu texts are rich in vocabulary in identifying the various gendered orientations of humans. There is more that exists beyond the duality of male and female in the Hindu view. Tritiya Prakriti (third nature) is so mainstream to Hindu thought that not only is it highlighted in Kama Sutra and depicted in ornate carvings of Khajuraho temple, but it is also elaborated into subgroups. This identity is broken down into further specific subgroups, including napumsaka (gay men), sandha (transgenders), kliba (asexuals), svairini (lesbians), and kami/kamini (bisexuals). Portrayals of these groups and individuals in the literature were usually expressed in a descriptive and dispassionate voice. Their presence in ancient Hindu society was widely known, accepted and regarded as a natural aspect of humanity.

Hindus won’t be Hindus if we do not have a freedom of thought. So there it is, Hindus acknowledge the LGBTQ. Hinduism has a rich theme of LGBTQ, not only in their stories but also in their theology.


Other reading material: Hinduism Today- Tradition: Same-Sex marriage and Hinduism

Relevant videos:

Contributor: Rajeev singh

Location of this page (30a): https://www.hinduspeakers.org/ufaqs/what-are-hindu-views-on-lgbtq/

Category: 30. LGBTQ