[SteantyjetMaw]

Hi Twinkie,

From the perspective of Buddhism, being transgender should not be an issue. A person's conduct is what is important, not their gender identity. Harsh reactions to being transgender are more often of a cultural bent rather than having anything to do with the Buddha's teachings. Some misinformed and prejudiced people may argue that the Buddha forbade homosexuals and transgender people from ordaining, citing the term "pandaka". However, "pandaka" does not refer to a sexual or gender identity, but rather a person's mode of conduct. Thus, being transgender is not a sin or an offense in the Buddha's teachings.

Knowing many transgender people in my real life and having befriended both male-to-female and female-to-male individuals, I am confident that there is nothing wrong with being transgender. These people are some of the kindest and deepest people I've met. In fact, two have attended the meditation group I visit and always have insightful experiences to share during the discussion section.

As for suttas, there is no record in the Sutta Pitaka of the Buddha ever having directly discussed transgender issues. There are, however, instances in the commentaries where transgender issues are raised, and some of them even seem to be sympathetic to transgender individuals.

Abhaya