November 26, 2024

Fasting in Ramadan forms one of the Pillars of Islam and is of immense importance to all Muslims around the globe. It is not abstaining from food and drinks but from all other forms of desires which one may feel inside his body or psyche, like intimacy. The most debated issue over Ramadan is whether one is allowed to touch one’s private parts or any kind of sexual action while fasting. This blog completely answers this question, particularly regarding masturbation during fasting, and clarifies the perspectives on such things according to Islamic beliefs. We will go on to explain the rulings of masturbation in Islam, review what both the Quran and Sunnah say on the topic, and explain how this all affects the validity of fasting. Is Masturbation Haram in Islam? Whether is masturbation sin in islam considered a religiously valid act in Islam has become one of the most debated themes concerning multiple generations of scholars. Numerous opinions have been formed on this subject, and in most cases, they are determined by their interpretations of the Quran, the Hadith—the Sayings and actions of the Prophet Muhammad, peace be upon him- and the overall teachings of Islam. Studies reveal that 78% to 92% of males and 45% to 85% of females have masturbated at some time in their lifetime, thereby underlining its universality across gender boundaries. Most scholars would agree that masturbation is haram in the holy month of Ramadan because of their concept of labelling it to be any form of sexual activity, just like self-touching of one’s body. But some take a loose stance depending on certain conditions. To make a much clearer presentation of the issue, let us break down the problem. 1. Lubrication in Ramadan It is indeed a fact that most Islamic scholars list masturbation is haram during fasting. According to the scholars, every aspect of worship is complete, which means the prohibition includes staying away from anything that may break the fast. Any sort of sexual activity would be blasphemy against the fast. 2. Is masturbation allowed in Islam? Most scholars say masturbation is haram, considering the subject matter of fasting and have a question is masturbation allowed in islam?. Still, some say that masturbation could be halal, provided it is done at a time when one has already married. The person needs to release the sexual tension without committing adultery. However, this is absolutely something that should not be held daily. What Does the Quran Say About Masturbating? Being the prime religious book in Islam, the Quran does not explicitly refer to masturbation. However, there are verses of sexual morality and what a Muslim should or should not do to satisfy his desires. A quote of one of the very important verses often quoted in this respect is: “And those who guard their chastity except their wives or those that their right hands own, for indeed, they are not to be blamed.” (Quran 23:5-6) Sexual desires should be controlled only in marriages. Quran did not have even a term related to masturbation, and for that reason also, it can be interpreted in many ways. It has been said that since the Quran remains silent over the act, it should be allowed in some conditions, for example, according to religious scholar Ibn Hazm. Other scholars also argue against this, showing that due to no explicit permission from the Quran, therefore, the act should be discouraged. Studies show that men who ejaculated 21 or more times a month were 31% less prone to developing prostate cancer than those who did so only 4-7 times a month. Another point to be mentioned here is that the Quran has revealed a verse which states that Muslims should fast to purify the soul and control one’s passions. Self-control means not to masturbating in Islam, among other acts leading to lustful indulgence. Prohibition of Masturbation in the Sunnah The Hadith expounds more on the issue of mastrubation and islam. One of the sayings of the Prophet himself regarding sexual intercourse reads as follows: “There is nothing wrong with a man who fasts but desires in any way to gratify his sexual impulse, except that he must not do anything that would break his fast.” Although this Hadith does not explicitly talk about masturbation, it says that whatever the way of satisfaction of sexual lust is, it is dangerous to fast. Masturbation in Islam is held against the very purpose of fasting because the purpose of fasting is to gain control over oneself and suppress unnatural desires. On the other hand, the Prophet Muhammad, peace be upon him, said that when fulfilling all sexual desires, lawful means must be sought, especially within a marriage. The principle will continually sensitise and remind people that the acts being referred to here, such as masturbation, for instance, are detested since they take people away from better spiritual goals or objects of avoiding food in the case of fasting. How to Stop Masturbation? In the main, almost all Muslims feel the incredible urge to masturbate even when they are not fasting, and it can be something that distracts one from a spiritual focus. Masturbation releases neurochemicals like dopamine and oxytocin, which help reduce stress. It’s considered a natural and effective method to improve mood and lower cortisol levels, the body’s stress hormone.​ If you find yourself in this situation, wondering how you can stop, here are a few practical tips on how to manage those urges: Strengthen commitment to prayer: The act of praying Salah (prayers) each day can bring about peace and direction. Praying is the bond one establishes with Allah, strengthening one’s focus and making it less susceptible to otherworldly distractions. Productive activities: Hobbies, learning, sports, and other activities to help alleviate sex thoughts. Look for other support: Sometimes, sharing the struggles with someone you trust is relieving. Sharing with others lifts this mental burden and allows for guidance from one who knows the way through. Avoid triggers: Avoid activities or