Masturbation is unequivocally haram or forbidden in Islam, and Islamic scholars unanimously agree on its sinful nature. Islam describes different punishments for various sins, but what about masturbation? Is there any explicit punishment for this act in Islam?
There is no specified punishment outlined for masturbation in Islamic Sharia. However, some Islamic scholars suggest that it may warrant a Ta’zeer punishment, which is discretionary and not equivalent to prescribed punishments for well-defined sins like zina. Ta’zeer is a punishment left to the discretion of a judge or ruler, depending on individual circumstances.
The punishment in the Hereafter depends on Allah’s will if someone dies without repenting and seeking forgiveness for this particular transgression. We will discuss masturbation punishment from an Islamic perspective.
Islamic Perspective About Punishment for Masturbation
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To understand Islamic views on masturbation, let’s look at the prohibition, lack of defined penalties, and the importance of repentance and forgiveness.
Prohibition and Sinfulness of Masturbation
Islamic Sharia clearly prohibits and considers masturbation sinful due to its violation of moral and ethical principles. Islamic scholars across various disciplines, including the Malikiyah, Shafi’eyah, and Hanafiyah, unanimously agree on the prohibition of masturbation.
This prohibition is rooted in the belief that sexual desires and urges should be fulfilled within the confines of a lawful marriage. Masturbation is seen as a deviation from this established framework, as it involves the indulgence of sexual desires outside of the permissible boundaries set by Islam.
The act is considered a form of self-gratification that goes against the teachings of modesty and self-control. It’s believed that engaging in such acts can lead to a weakening of one’s faith and a blurring of the lines between right and wrong.
Absence of Specific Punishment
While Islam considers masturbation to be haram, there’s no designated punishment for this act. This distinction sets it apart from sins like zina, which have explicit punishments prescribed in Islamic law.
Instead, scholars suggest that masturbation may warrant a Ta’zeer punishment, which refers to discretionary punishment for actions without specific penal punishments. However, it’s important to recognize that Ta’zeer is distinct from the punishments prescribed for specific sins. Allah will decide what punishment will be administered on the Day of Judgment.
Repentance and Forgiveness
Islam strongly emphasizes the concept of repentance as a means of seeking forgiveness for sins. The Prophet Muhammad (S) himself emphasized the importance of repentance, stating that
“One who repents from sin is like someone without sin.” (Reference: Hadith 28, 40 Hadith Shah Waliullah)
This highlights the Merciful nature of Allah, who’s willing to forgive those who sincerely repent. A person who masturbates is encouraged to acknowledge their wrongdoing, feel genuine remorse, stop repeating sinful behavior, and make a firm commitment not to do it again.
Through this process of repentance, Muslims believe that they can seek forgiveness and reconcile their actions with the teachings of Islam.
Seek Forgiveness and Strive for Self-Control in the Path of Allah
While masturbation is haram, there’s no clear punishment in Islam. Every believer is urged to repent and seek Allah’s forgiveness for violating the prohibition.
Islam underscores the importance of self-control, modesty, and adherence to the lawful fulfillment of desires within the framework of marriage.
When the Day of Judgment comes, Allah will decide the consequences. The focus of Islamic teachings remains on sincere repentance, forgiveness, and aligning one’s actions with the principles of Islam.
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Sources:
https://islamqa.info/en/answers/13436/is-there-any-hadd-punishment-or-expiation-for-masturbation
https://islam.stackexchange.com/questions/67757/punishment-for-masturbation
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