Masturbation is a topic that many people feel shy or uncomfortable discussing openly. Yet, it is a common concern, especially for Muslims who want to follow their faith closely. In this article, we will explore whether masturbation is haram (forbidden) in Islam, what Islamic scholars say about it, and how it affects one’s faith and daily life. We will use simple and easy words so that everyone can understand. Let’s begin.
What is Masturbation?
Masturbation means stimulating your own private parts to get sexual pleasure. Both men and women can masturbate. Some people do it alone, while others might do it with a partner. It is a natural activity, but different cultures and religions have different views on it.
What Does “Haram” Mean?
In Islam, the term “haram” means something that is forbidden by Allah (God). If something is haram, it means Muslims should avoid it because it goes against the teachings of Islam. The opposite of haram is “halal,” which means something that is permissible or allowed.
Different Opinions Among Islamic Scholars
There are different opinions among Islamic scholars about whether masturbation is haram or not. Here are the main views:
- Majority View – It Is Haram: Many scholars believe that masturbation is haram. They argue that it goes against the principles of modesty and self-control that Islam teaches. They often cite the following verse from the Quran:
“And those who guard their private parts except from their wives or those their right hands possess, for indeed, they will not be blamed. But whoever seeks beyond that, then those are the transgressors.” (Quran 23:5-7)
These scholars interpret this verse to mean that any sexual activity outside of marriage is forbidden, including masturbation. - Minority View – It Is Makruh: Some scholars believe that masturbation is not haram but makruh (discouraged). They argue that while it is not a good practice, it is not a major sin. These scholars might consider masturbation permissible if it prevents a person from committing a greater sin, like adultery.
- Another View – It Is Permissible in Certain Conditions: A few scholars argue that masturbation can be permissible in specific situations. For example, if someone is not married and fears that they might commit a greater sin due to strong sexual urges, then masturbation might be allowed to avoid committing adultery or fornication.
Is Masturbation Haram in Islam?
Question:
What is the ruling on masturbation in Islam? What is its punishment? And how can one get rid of it? Please respond.
Answer:
In Islam, masturbation is considered impermissible and sinful. It is also harmful to one’s health. Punishment is usually given for crimes that are done openly or witnessed by others, and if there is clear evidence. If someone is caught in the act of masturbation and it has become a habit, the ruler of the time may give a suitable punishment. Since it is a sin, one should make a firm intention and effort to quit it, seek forgiveness from Allah, and promise not to do it again.
Ruling on Masturbation
Question:
Can masturbation be done for any reason, especially to avoid committing adultery? Also, what is the ruling if a wife touches her husband’s private part, leading him to ejaculation during intercourse or due to her menstruation?
Answer:
- Masturbation is impermissible and sinful in Islam. Its prohibition is established from the Quran (Surah Al-Mu’minun, Ayahs 5-8).
- Various Hadiths also warn against this act, and it is cursed upon those who engage in it. In one Hadith, Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) said: “There are seven people whom Allah will not speak to on the Day of Judgment, nor will He look at them with mercy… One of them is a person who masturbates.”
In summary, masturbation is haram in Islam. If someone struggles with this, they should seek Allah’s forgiveness, make a strong intention to stop, and take practical steps to avoid it.
