The Question of Marriage in Intersex Theologies

This article considers whether and how the topic of marriage is discussed within intersex theology in two sections, the first examining intersex-disaffirming theologies and the second studying intersex-affirming theologies. Two recent Roman Catholic magisterial documents as well as a recent contribution by Anglican author Sam Ashton are discussed in some detail. The article finds that these theologies do not consider intersex as being rooted in good creation but rather in the Fall. This premise implies that, when it comes to marriage, intersex bodies must be either classified as male or female or they must be excluded from marriage since marriage can only be instantiated by two people of the opposite sex. The weaknesses of this approach are then explored. Intersex-affirming theology is then considered and evaluated, noting the lack of attention to marriage. Such theologies could propose that intersex be established as a third sex, but this raises questions about essentialism. Susannah Cornwall receives particular attention by virtue of her rare attempt at including intersex bodies within the theology of marriage. The article concludes that regardless of whether one theologizes intersex affirmingly or disaffirmingly, the consequences and in particular the question as to whether people with varieties of sexual development are eligible for marriage and with which partner remain insufficiently explored.