Dalai Lama’s Spiritual Legacy Resonates with LGBTQ Buddhists
A queer Buddhist sociologist from an Australian university has highlighted the Dalai Lama’s unexpected role as a source of inspiration for LGBTQ Buddhists, rooted in his spiritual connection to Avalokitesvara, the bodhisattva of compassion. In a recent article published by The Conversation, the researcher explains that Avalokitesvara’s ability to transcend gender norms being depicted as male, female, or non-binary offers a powerful link to queer Buddhists, affirming their place within the faith’s traditions.
The sociologist, who identifies as genderqueer and Buddhist, draws on five years of research involving 109 LGBTQIA+ Buddhist Australians. The study reveals that many in this community find solace in Avalokitesvara’s gender fluidity, which resonates with their own identities. One interviewee, Walter, described being drawn to depictions of Avalokitesvara that blend effeminate and masculine traits, evoking a sense of homoeroticism and gender fluidity. These representations provide comfort and a sense of belonging for queer Buddhists, connecting them to centuries-old traditions of gender diversity within Buddhism.
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Despite the Dalai Lama’s inconsistent support for queer issues as a cisgender man, his embodiment of Avalokitesvara positions him as a bridge between modern queer Buddhists and historical practices of gender transition and fluidity. The researcher notes that many LGBTQIA+ Buddhists in Australia hesitate to share their identities within their communities, often facing pressure to remain silent. For these individuals, Avalokitesvara’s fluid nature serves as a vital affirmation of their dual queer and Buddhist identities.
The findings, also covered underscore how the Dalai Lama’s spiritual lineage continues to inspire and support queer Buddhists, offering a sense of safety and acceptance within a faith that has long embraced diverse expressions of identity.