What biblical verses specifically address homosexuality?

1. Summary of the results

The question about biblical verses addressing homosexuality reveals a deeply divided scholarly and theological landscape with fundamentally different interpretations of the same texts. The analyses present three primary approaches to understanding biblical teachings on this topic.

Traditional interpretations maintain that several biblical passages clearly condemn same-sex relationships. These sources reference Jesus' teachings on marriage in Matthew 19 and Mark 10, along with the Genesis creation story, to argue that the only approved sexual union is between husband and wife ^[1]. This traditional view emphasizes following biblical standards even when they don't align with contemporary understanding ^[1].

Progressive interpretations challenge these traditional readings on multiple fronts. Some scholars argue that biblical authors had no concept of sexual orientation as we understand it today and that the Bible's teachings should be interpreted within their historical and cultural context ^[2]. These sources contend that the Bible condemns exploitative and degrading forms of sexuality rather than loving same-sex relationships ^[2].

Translation controversies form a significant part of the debate. Multiple sources discuss the Greek term 'arsenokoites' and its translation, with some arguing that translating it as 'homosexual' is incorrect ^[3]. However, there's disagreement about whether mistranslations have significantly affected Christian teaching on this topic ^[3].

The New Testament specifically is described by some sources as providing no direct guidance on homosexuality, with passages mentioning same-sex activity being frequently mistranslated or misinterpreted ^[4]. Progressive scholars argue that the few biblical proscriptions against certain sexual practices should not be applied to modern same-sex relationships ^{[4] [5]}.

2. Missing context/alternative viewpoints

The original question lacks crucial context about which specific biblical passages are typically cited in these discussions. The analyses reveal that key verses include those in Leviticus, Romans, 1 Corinthians, and 1 Timothy, though these aren't explicitly named in the question.

Historical and cultural context is significantly underrepresented in the original question. The analyses emphasize that ancient concepts of sexuality differed dramatically from modern understanding, with homosexuality as a sexual orientation being a modern social construct that didn't exist in biblical times ^{[3] [4]}.

Denominational differences represent another missing perspective. While some analyses reference varying acceptance levels among different religious groups ^[6], the original question doesn't acknowledge that different Christian denominations interpret these passages differently.

The question also omits the hermeneutical debate - the fundamental disagreement about how to interpret biblical texts. Some scholars prioritize love and relationships over specific regulations ^[5], while others emphasize strict adherence to traditional interpretations regardless of contemporary sensibilities ^[1].

Academic versus pastoral perspectives create another layer of complexity not addressed in the original question. The analyses show tension between scholarly biblical interpretation and practical church teaching ^[7].

3. Potential misinformation/bias in the original statement

The original question, while seemingly neutral, contains implicit assumptions that may lead to biased responses. By asking for "biblical verses that address homosexuality," it presupposes that the Bible directly addresses modern concepts of sexual orientation, which several sources dispute ^{[2] [4]}.

Anachronistic thinking represents a significant potential bias. The question applies contemporary categories to ancient texts, potentially misrepresenting the original authors' intentions and understanding ^{[3] [2]}.

The framing suggests there are clear, unambiguous biblical statements on this topic, when the analyses reveal significant scholarly disagreement about translation, interpretation, and application ^{[3] [5]}.

Selection bias could influence responses, as different sources emphasize different passages and interpretations based on their theological perspectives. Traditional sources focus on creation narratives and specific prohibitions ^[1], while progressive sources emphasize contextual interpretation and translation issues ^{[2] [4]}.

The question's neutrality masks the reality that this topic involves fundamental disagreements about biblical authority, interpretation methods, and the relationship between ancient texts and contemporary issues. Any response risks appearing to endorse one interpretive framework over others, potentially misleading readers about the complexity and ongoing nature of these theological debates.