It is important for Muslims to clearly understand and not compromise on Islam’s sexual ethics. It is a Qur’anic imperative to uphold Islam’s ethical standard with confidence, as God states: “Call [people] to the way of your Lord with wisdom and beautiful admonition, and dispute with them in the most courteous of ways; for your Lord knows best who has strayed from His way and who is rightly guided” [Qur’an, 16:125].
At the same, Muslims should show empathy and understanding to those dealing with same-sex attractions or gender identity issues for what is often a very difficult and emotionally taxing issue. Being compassionate toward someone struggling with gender identity or same-sex attraction does not mean bending God’s commands or misrepresenting the Islamic paradigm on gender, sexuality, morality, and identity. No one is more merciful or compassionate than God; true compassion thus involves guiding others to the truth and what pleases the Creator.