The University of Richmond, a private liberal arts institution in Virginia, has sparked widespread discussion with the announcement of a new course titled “Queer Bible,” which invites students to explore “queer pleasure in the Bible.”
This offering has drawn attention from various news outlets, igniting debates about academic freedom, religious interpretation, and cultural trends in higher education.
According to a report from The Washington Post, the course, set to debut in the fall 2025 semester, is part of the university’s Department of Religious Studies.
It aims to examine biblical texts through a queer theoretical lens, focusing on themes of gender, sexuality, and pleasure that challenge traditional interpretations.
The course description, as cited by the outlet, promises an exploration of “how queer identities and experiences might intersect with sacred narratives,” prompting students to reconsider long-held assumptions about the Bible’s teachings.
Fox News highlighted the course’s provocative subtitle, “Queer Pleasure in the Bible,” noting that it has raised eyebrows among conservative commentators and religious groups.
The outlet interviewed a spokesperson from the Family Research Council, who expressed concern that the course “distorts scripture to fit a modern ideological agenda.”
The spokesperson argued that such academic endeavors risk alienating students of faith and undermining the Bible’s historical context.
In contrast, The New York Times framed the course as part of a broader trend in academia to integrate queer theory into religious studies.
The article pointed to similar programs at institutions like Harvard Divinity School and the University of Chicago, suggesting that Richmond’s offering reflects growing interest in reinterpreting sacred texts to address contemporary social issues.
A University of Richmond professor, speaking anonymously to the Times, defended the course, stating, “This isn’t about rewriting the Bible—it’s about asking questions that have been overlooked for centuries.”
The announcement has also fueled online chatter, with trending discussions on X reflecting a mix of support and skepticism.
Some users praised the university for its progressive approach, while others questioned whether the course prioritizes ideology over scholarship.
As reported by CNN, the university has stood by its decision, with a spokesperson emphasizing its commitment to “academic inquiry and diverse perspectives.”
The network noted that the course is an elective, open to all students regardless of major, and does not require prior religious affiliation.
Newsweek delved into the syllabus, which reportedly includes readings from queer theologians alongside biblical passages such as the Song of Solomon, often cited for its sensual imagery, and the story of David and Jonathan, which some scholars interpret as hinting at same-sex affection.
The magazine quoted Dr. Elizabeth Carter, a religious studies professor at Richmond, who will lead the course. “We’re not here to tell students what to believe,” Carter said. “We’re here to equip them with tools to analyze texts critically and creatively.”
The course has not been without logistical scrutiny. The Richmond Times-Dispatch, a local outlet, reported that enrollment has already surpassed expectations, with a waitlist forming within days of registration opening.
The paper also noted that the university has allocated additional funding to support guest lecturers, including prominent queer theologians, to enrich the curriculum.
Reaction from the broader academic and religious communities remains polarized. NBC News interviewed students at Richmond, uncovering a split in sentiment.
One junior, identifying as queer, told the outlet, “I’m excited to see my identity reflected in something as foundational as the Bible.” Meanwhile, a senior from the university’s Christian fellowship expressed unease, saying, “It feels like they’re cherry-picking verses to push a narrative.”
As the University of Richmond prepares to launch this groundbreaking course, it stands at the intersection of faith, identity, and education—a position that, according to USA Today, may set a precedent for how universities nationwide approach controversial topics in the humanities.
Whether hailed as innovative or criticized as overreach, the “Queer Bible” course underscores the evolving landscape of biblical scholarship and its place in modern academia.
