Sex, Gender, and Love and the LGBTQ-Plus Community—Part II, Cross-Cultural Explorations

As per my last Tuesday Tip, sex is considered a biological phenomenon, and I already presented a handful of studies and theories that suggest there are not only two sexes. Now I’m leaning into an exploration of gender, which is how we identify with binary, non-binary, and the expression of the self. I’m approaching this issue as an ally of the Queer community, certainly not an expert, but an energy healer who believes that everyone deserves to embrace their birthright of living in wholeness.

 In general, we Americans—except for several Native American tribes—are behind the curve in embracing the full range of human expression.

 Throughout history, many cultures have recognized gender identities rather than male and female. It is interesting that in many cases, nonbinary people often serve in unique positions in their societies. Priests, artists, healers, ceremonial leaders. The invitation to expression is vast and heart-warming.

 Though there are dozens of cultures I could feature, I’m going to present what will fit in an article and encourage you to walk the paths of Google yourself.

The Bujis in Indonesia: Picture yourself on a lovely island named Sulawesi and be prepared for the acceptance of many genders. In fact, there are five genders: makkanrai or cisgender (straight) women, oroane or cisgender (straight) men, calalai or assigned females living as men, calabai or assigned males living as women, and bissu, or androgynous shamans. The latter often embody male and female characteristics and operate as spiritual meditators and often wear flowers and carry sacred daggers to symbolize their expansive identity.

Six Genders in Ancient Judaism: Ancient Jewish texts discuss as many as six genders. I’ve also read reports that some sects believe that there are eight genders. These categories are based on physical traits and development to include tumtum or ambiguous and androgynos or having both male and female characteristics.

The Sakalava in Madagascar: A recognized group is the sekrata people. Usually, they are born with male traits, but after displaying feminine behavior when young, they adopt a feminine appearance. They are respected in adulthood as sacred and protected by supernatural powers.

The Mahu in Many Native Hawaiians and Tahitians: In many of these cultures, there is a third and intermediate state between male and female, called mahu, or gender liminality. They are thought to embody both male and female spirits and are often considered the holders of sacred knowledge.

Two Spirits in Many North American Communities: The label two spirit reflects a third or fourth gender in many tribes. Often individuals recognized as such are considered spiritually vital to the community.

 Many of us in the modern Western world have a lot to learn about the wonderful expression afforded we humans.