Are there Biblical passages that have been interpreted by Biblical scholars to suggest that gender non-conforming persons have existed throughout history, and that Jesus not only accepted such persons but beseeched others to accept them and invited them t

Are there Biblical passages that have been interpreted by Biblical scholars to suggest that gender non-conforming persons have existed throughout history, and that Jesus not only accepted such persons but beseeched others to accept them and invited them to join the kingdom of Heaven?

There are a number of passages and stories, in both the Old and New Testaments, that contain affirming scriptures, using eunuchs and other gender variant persons, that speak to the diversity of gender identity in Biblical culture, and to Jesus’ encouragement of inclusion and acceptance of those who live in gender diverse ways. Specifically, Isaiah 56: 1-5 cites God’s extension of justice to unlikely persons, including foreigners, eunuchs, and barren women; in particular, to faithful eunuchs He promises an “everlasting name” and a “monument”. Also in Wisdom 3:14 righteous eunuchs are promised blessings, special favors and great delight. In Acts 8: 25-39 the apostle Philip baptizes an Ethiopian eunuch. In Matthew 19: 11-12 Jesus counsels His followers to accept eunuchs, saying “let anyone accept this who can”. Other “genderqueer” Biblical characters who are favorably described include Joseph (Genesis 37:13), loved by his father Israel; Rebekah (Genesis 24); and Deborah (Judges 4-5), a socially trans-masculine foremother, and a respected leader because of her virtue, strength, and wisdom.