Here's How Many Times the Bible Talks About Transgender People

Impact

The Bible. It's often cited by conservative politicians and activists in the United States, who are quick to use it as a justification to defend laws limiting the freedom of certain groups of people.

Such is the case in North Carolina, where Republican Gov. Pat McCrory recently signed the state's Public Facilities Privacy & Security Act, which overturned an anti-discrimination ordinance enacted by the city of Charlotte. It's most controversial element was a reversal of rules that allowed transgender Charlotte residents to use the restroom of their choice. While the governor didn't talk about religion as a pretext, his supporters routinely cite biblical justifications to stand against LGBT Americans. 

With passions inflamed around the country both for and against North Carolina's new law, a good question to ask might be: How many times does the bible mention transgender people and, more specifically, bathroom assignment?

The answer is zero. 

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Read more: 7 Simple Tips for a Successful Fundamentalist Christian Marriage, According to the Bible   

While there's certainly no specific mention of transgender people in the bible, the Old Testament seemingly takes a rough line on cross-dressing in the book of Deuteronomy 22:5. "A woman shall not wear anything that pertains to a man, nor shall a man put on a woman's garment, for all who do so  an abomination to the Lord your God," the scripture reads. Though not specifically speaking of transgender individuals, it's hard to infer from this that the Bible would take a very woke position on the subject. 

The Bible's tough stance on cross-dressing joins a litany of biblical, often Old Testament justice that is generally out of step with modern times. The Bible, for example, has no issue with slavery, and even comes with helpful tips for slave masters, and endorses polygamy (for men) and murdering your cheating spouse

So take a number — because hell is probably really crowded.