Islamic Ruling on ‘Azl (Withdrawal Method)

This response is based on the scholarly rulings compiled in the book "500 Questions and Answers for Women", translated by Hafiz Abdullah Saleem.

Ruling on ‘Azl (Withdrawal Method)

‘Azl, the practice of withdrawing during intercourse to avoid conception, is generally considered makruh (disliked) but permissible under certain conditions. This ruling is derived from both the permissibility established in authentic Hadith and the reasons for its dislike as outlined by scholars.

Evidence for Permissibility

  1. Hadith of Jabir (رضي الله عنه):
    Jabir (رضي الله عنه) reported:
    "We used to practice ‘azl (withdrawal) while the Quran was being revealed."
    [Sahih al-Bukhari, Hadith No. 4911; Sahih Muslim, Hadith No. 1440]

    Jabir’s statement indicates that the practice of withdrawal was ongoing, and no prohibition regarding it was revealed in the Quran. This confirms its permissibility.

Reasons for Dislike (Makruh)

  1. Contrary to the Prophet’s Encouragement for Procreation:
    The Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) said:
    "Marry loving and fertile women, for I will boast of your large numbers before other nations on the Day of Resurrection."
    [Sunan Abu Dawood, Hadith No. 2050]

    A person who practices ‘azl might indirectly go against the Prophet’s (ﷺ) desire to increase the Muslim population.
  2. Link to Population Control Ideologies:
    • ‘Azl resembles the modern concept of birth control, which is often associated with ideologies that neglect the spiritual rewards of raising righteous children.
    • Islam encourages believers to see children as a source of ongoing reward and blessings, as evident in the Hadith:
      "When a human being dies, their deeds come to an end except for three: continuous charity, beneficial knowledge, or a righteous child who prays for them."
      [Sunan al-Tirmidhi, Hadith No. 3895]
  3. Missed Spiritual Benefits:
    • The Prophet (ﷺ) said:
      "No Muslim couple loses three children (before puberty) but that Allah will grant them Paradise as a reward."
      [Sahih al-Bukhari, Hadith No. 6280; Sahih Muslim, Hadith No. 2632]
    • ‘Azl could deprive parents of such spiritual rewards, particularly in cases of early child mortality.

Conclusion

  • Permissible but Disliked:
    ‘Azl is permissible under Islamic law but remains disliked (makruh) when practiced without a valid reason.
  • Encouragement for Procreation:
    Islam emphasizes the spiritual and societal benefits of having children, aligning with the prophetic guidance to increase the Muslim ummah.
 
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