Sex and Relationships in Islam

This section explains sex and relationships in Islam, focusing on: Chastity, Cohabitation, Adultery, Contraception and Same Sex Relationships. In Islam, sex is regarded as a gift from Allah, meant to be enjoyed within the boundaries of marriage. The Qur'an teaches that the ideal place for a sexual relationship is within the confines of marriage, where both spouses are sources of comfort and mutual respect. The relationship between a husband and wife is likened to the closeness of garments, symbolising the intimate and protective nature of marriage:
"They (women) are garments for you (men) and you are garments for them."
Qur'an 2:187

Therefore, most Muslims believe that chastity before marriage is an important principle. Cohabitation before marriage is often seen as contrary to Islamic teachings, as it goes against the principle of maintaining modesty and sexual purity. Sexual relations are seen as sacred and are only permissible in the context of a lawful marriage.

The Hadith (sayings and actions of Prophet Muhammad) also advises that men and women who are not married to each other should avoid being alone together, unless they are Mahram (close relatives with whom marriage is not permitted, such as a father or brother). This advice is meant to prevent temptation and ensure the preservation of modesty and respect between the sexes.

In Islam, sex before marriage is considered haram (forbidden) and is viewed as unlawful according to Islamic law. This is reinforced in the Qur'an, which forbids such relationships.

Adultery in Islam

Faithfulness within marriage is a fundamental value in Islam. Adultery, which involves one spouse being unfaithful to the other, is regarded as a grave sin. The Qur'an condemns adultery in the strongest terms, referring to it as an immoral and harmful act:
"And do not come near to adultery, for it is an outrageous act, and an evil way to act."
Qur'an 17:32

For Muslims, adultery is seen not only as a violation of the marriage contract but also as a cause of emotional harm and disruption to the ummah (the global Muslim community). The act of adultery can lead to deep emotional pain for the individuals involved and can affect the wider community, as it damages the bonds of trust and respect.

The Hadith also states:
"When a man commits adultery, faith departs from him as if it were a cloud overhead."
This suggests that adultery is seen as a serious sin that distances a person from Allah, and it can have profound spiritual and social consequences.

Contraception in Islam

In Islam, children are considered a blessing and a gift from Allah. The Qur'an states:
"He creates whatever He wills. He blesses whoever He wills with daughters, and blesses whoever He wills with sons."
Qur'an 42:49

As such, some Muslims believe that the use of contraception is contrary to Allah’s will and may interfere with His plan for procreation. The Hadith also reflects the importance of procreation in marriage:
"Marry the one who is fertile and loving, for I will boast of your great numbers."
Hadith of Prophet Muhammad

However, many Muslims accept the use of contraception within marriage, particularly in circumstances where having more children could lead to hardship or suffering. For instance, contraception may be seen as acceptable if there are health risks to the mother or if there are financial difficulties that could affect the upbringing of the children. Ultimately, most Muslims believe that decisions about contraception should be made with sincerity, responsibility, and a sense of what is best for the family and community.

Same-Sex Relationships in Islam

Islamic teachings hold that marriage is a sacred union between a man and a woman, and the purpose of marriage includes procreation. Therefore, many Muslims believe that same-sex relationships cannot be permitted, as they do not align with the natural purpose of marriage in Islam.

The Qur'an contains verses that are interpreted as condemning homosexuality. For instance, it speaks of the actions of the people of Lut (Lot), who were involved in same-sex relations, and the Prophet Lut's condemnation of these actions:
"You commit a shameful deed … You lust after men instead of women!"
Qur'an 7:80-81
This is seen as a clear rejection of homosexual acts within Islamic teachings.

The Qur'an also raises questions about same-sex attraction, suggesting that it is unnatural:
"Why do you [men] lust after fellow men, leaving the wives that your Lord has created for you? In fact, you are a transgressing people."
Qur'an 26:165-166
For many Muslims, this implies that engaging in same-sex relations is not in line with Allah’s design for human relationships.

However, some Muslims believe that same-sex attraction itself is not sinful, as feelings are beyond a person’s control. In such cases, celibacy is often encouraged as a means of adhering to Islamic principles, as acting on these feelings is believed to be forbidden.

Judgment and Accountability

Many Muslims believe that anyone who engages in sexual acts that go against Islamic teachings, such as homosexual relationships, will ultimately be held accountable by Allah on the Day of Judgment. This reflects the idea that all individuals are responsible for their actions, and Allah will judge them fairly based on their adherence to the principles outlined in the Qur'an and Hadith.

Islam places great emphasis on maintaining sexual purity and integrity within the context of marriage. Sex before marriage is forbidden, and adultery is seen as a serious sin that can damage relationships and disrupt the community. Contraception is permitted under certain circumstances, although it should align with Islamic values of responsibility and care. As for same-sex relationships, Islam teaches that sexual relations are meant to occur only between a man and a woman, and any actions contrary to this are considered sinful. However, Muslims are also reminded that feelings cannot be controlled, and only the actions taken based on those feelings are subject to judgment.