Blessed Are The Binary Breakers

Instead of an interview, this episode dives into faith history to present three stories that may resonate with trans and nonbinary people today. I draw from others' research to share accounts of: the divine manifestation Shiva from Hindu scriptures (as well as some of his devotees across time); Judaism's Joseph of Genesis; and the Catholic Saint Joan of Arc. Each of these figures (or their followers) breaks out of the gender roles assigned to them, sometimes facing condemnation for doing so - and yet they share their gifts in ways that bring healing and transformation to themselves and to others. Content warning: descriptions of anti-trans ideologies and violence.  Talking Points: - (0:00 - 3:33) Housekeeping, introducing the episode themes - (3:34 - 11:06) Shiva - the ultimate binary breaker - (11:07 - 13:46) Hijras - a "third gender" community of India that will not be erased - (13:47 - 22:44) Joseph of Genesis - from family violence to the gratitude of whole nations - (22:45 - 29:21) Saint Joan of A