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Homosexual Acceptance in Society

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Rabbi Chaim Tabasky

Sivan 29, 5768
Question
Are Jews allowed to live in a society that accepts and performs homosexual marriage? I remember a Rambam (not sure where) advocated living in desolation as opposed to living in a wicked community. Does the above qualify as a such a society?
Answer
The Rambam (Hilchot Deot ch.6;1) writes that since every man is influenced by his surroundings, we should always try to live in a society that is condusive to proper behavior, and seek out those people who will be a healthy influence upon us. When the entire society is wicked and there are no tzaddikim or proper influences there, one should prefer to be alone. The Rambam seems to be talking about a place where all of the inhabitants are wicked and it is impossible to find a group of Tzaddikim to join. I doubt if states in which homosexual marriage is recognized would meet that criterion, though it may be that the general moral decadence of certain societies would meet the Rambam's (lack of) standard. However, in our times societies are much more diverse than they were in previous generation. This demands of the individual even more strength and courage in pursuing a righteous path. We are all influenced by our surroundings, and should attempt to be in a place where we have enough positive influences to override the negative ones.
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