The Story of Lot and the Qurvln's Perception of the Morality of Same-Sex Sexuality

Abstract

Discussion of the morality of same-sex sexuality in Islam is beginning to come to the forefront. It is a controversial topic that evokes differing views in Islam and, as such, needs to be addressed and understood. This study narrows the scope of the investigation to the use of moral terminology in the Lot story and elsewhere in the Qurvln. The method of semantic analysis that shall be applied is similar to the one espoused by Toshihiko Izutsu. In order to acquire a better understanding of how same-sex practices are qualified morally in the Qurvln, same-sex activities shall also be looked at in comparison to other opposite-sex and non-sexual practices. It is my contention that, in the Qurvln, same-sex practices are viewed no differently from certain opposite-sex and non-sexual activities. In quoting from the Qurvln, I will give my own translation of the Arabic terms that shall be analyzed. In general, however, I adopt Qurvlnic passages from Arthur J. Arberry, The Koran Interpreted, and where necessary, modify Qurvlnic passages with my own translations. I will also use Arberry's verse numbering, following that of Flügel.