These conventional arguments in favour of sexual promiscuity have been gradually extended to include defense of homosexuality. Homosexuality is now regarded by many as acceptable and natural sexual behaviour. Baha'is deeply deplore the past savage persecution of homosexuals, whom they regard as having a sickness which requires not persecution for its cure, but compassion and all the medical and spiritual assistance that a society can give. However, physically and spiritually people of the same sex are not complementary in the same sense that people of the opposite sex are, and a homosexual relationship is therefore seen by Baha'is as an artificial creation which in the long run destroys rather than augments the spiritual qualities of those involved. The following statement written on behalf of Shoghi Effendi summarizes the Baha'i position on this subject: (85:4)

"Homosexuality, according to the Writings of Baha'u'llah, is spiritually condemned. This does not mean that people so afflicted must not be helped and advised and sympathized with. It does mean that we do not believe that it is a permissible way of life.. (86:1)

"...No matter how devoted and fine the love may be between people of the same sex, to let it find expression in sexual acts is wrong. Immorality of every sort is really forbidden by Baha'u'llah, and homosexual relationships He looks upon as such, besides being against nature (86:2)

"...But through the advice and help of doctors, through a strong and determined effort, and through prayer, a soul can overcome this handicap." (Shoghi Effendi) (86:3)

Despite the prevalence of the permissive view of sex, young people becoming Baha'is seem to grasp very quickly the significance of the idea of chastity in the overall scheme of Baha'i philosophy: that chastity is an essential attribute of a just race of men and women (86:4)

"As to a chaste and holy life it should be regarded as no less essential a factor that must contribute its proper share to the strengthening and vitalization of the Baha'i community.." (Shoghi Effendi) (86:5)

They understand that chastity is in reality a state of mind, a spiritual concept, and that it involves not only reserving sexual relationships for marriage, but the way we think about others and the way we want other people to think about ourselves. Chastity is conveyed in our general bearing, and in the conduct of social relations (86:6)

"A chaste and holy life must be made the controlling principle in the behaviour and conduct of all Baha'is, both in their social relations with the members of their own community, and in their contact with the world at large. It must adorn and reinforce the ceaseless labours and meritorious exertions of those whose enviable position is to propagate the Message, and to administer the affairs, of the Faith of Baha'u'llah. It must be upheld, in all its integrity and implications.... It demands daily vigilance in the control of one's carnal desires and corrupt inclination.. It can tolerate no compromise with the theories, the standards, the habits and the excesses of a decadent age.." (Shoghi Effendi) (86:7)

End of Quote

Earth is But One Country
J. Huddleston