In Praise of Sacred Transition

Publication information:

Mohan, Jai. 2026. “In Praise of Sacred Transition.” in Belonging: Practices of Inclusion in Spiritual Communities, the Academy, and Society. Cambridge, Massachusetts, USA: Harvard Divinity School: Program for the Evolution of Spirituality.

Abstract

Heathen myth is littered with depictions of gender nonconformity. From Loki's shapeshifting, to Skadi donning armor, to Ymir birthing the first giants, there are numerous examples that modern worshippers might look to. Yet there are currently few attempts to honor these in ritual.

"In Praise of Sacred Transition" is an ongoing attempt to rectify this, via ritual performance in the format of a Heathen bløt. Part ritual, part presentation, and part theatre: this piece delves into the realities of transitioning while Heathen, the complexities of queer divinity, and honoring the self in all its sacred transition.

Presenter Biography

Jai Mohan (he/him and neopronouns) is a composer, theatre/visual/textile artist, herbalist, and educator working at the intersection of spirituality, art, and advocacy. Jai is desi, trans, plural, and disabled; xir work prioritizes uplifting these communities. Xe lives on Lenape land in Brooklyn, NY.