Is homosexuality accepted in Buddhism?

Submitted by Kamal Wickramanayake on

Contrary to the belief of some, homosexuality is not accepted in Buddhism.

Homosexuality is called "micchādhamma" in Pali. It can be seen mentioned in Chakkavattisutta (DN3.3 or DN26) and in Palokasutta (AN3.2.1.6 or AN3.56) in the Pali Canon. In the commentary to Chakkavattisutta, "micchādhamma" is described as follows:

"Micchādhammoti purisānaṃ purisesu itthīnañca itthīsu chandarāgo."

Chakkavattisutta mentions that the life expectancy and the complexion of generations deteriorate due to homosexuality.

Palokasutta mentions that homosexuality and two other immoral behavior lead people to kill each other, lead to less rainfall and hence famine, and lead yakkas to release vicious monsters towards people. They cause human numbers to dwindle, decline in population and whole villages, towns, cities, and countries disappear.