Issues related to same-sex marriage have recently drawn the attention of many around the world, and the contentious matter has also been widely discussed in Taiwan. Amidst a diverse debate, Taiwan's Legislative Yuan passed legislation ensuring equal rights for marriage partners in both same-sex and heterosexual marriages in May 2019. Taiwan became the first country in Asia to legalize same-sex marriage. But what is the possible position of Buddhism in this dispute? This article attempts to explore clues to this question through Master Yinshun's understanding of Buddhist doctrine. First, I try to outline potential perspectives on gender ethics in Yinshun's Buddhist doctrine from the perspective of his tolerant stance on morality and precepts and his rational attitude towards desire, as well as his emphasis on the value of equality and the relief of suffering through compassion. Second, Master Yinshun recognizes that marriage has its positive function and regards marriage as a symbol of progressing moral views. The commitment to another and the mutual standards found in marriage help to improve the moral integrity of both sides. Therefore, the key point is not necessarily whether one can marry but how one marries. As long as a like-minded couple places the Dharma at the forefront of the engagement relationship, the marriage can be affirmed and supported regardless of gender. Finally, I point out that respecting the marriage choices of LGBTQ individuals is an unavoidable trend of the times. Current Buddhist leaders such as Thich Nhat Hanh and the Dalai Lama have also expressed similar inclinations.
