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Islamic Ruling on Oral Sex and the Concept of Human Dignity

Source: Fatāwā ʿUlamā-e-Ḥadīth, Kitāb al-Ṣalāh, Volume 1
Question:
What is the Islamic ruling on oral sex? Some people claim it is not ḥarām. Please provide guidance on this matter.

❖ Foundational Principles in Islam Regarding Marital Intimacy​


Islamic guidelines for marital relations are rooted in the principles of honor, human dignity, and adherence to the lawful boundaries set by Allah. Regarding oral sex, scholars have expressed divergent opinions, which are outlined below:

① Scholarly Opinions:​


View of Permissibility:
Some scholars include oral sex under the general scope of permissible enjoyment (istimtāʿ) between spouses. They argue that all forms of intimacy are allowed with one’s wife, except for anal intercourse, which is explicitly forbidden.


Qur'anic Evidence:


"Your wives are a place of sowing for you, so come to your place of sowing however you wish."
(Surah al-Baqarah: 223)



This verse is cited by certain scholars to justify general permissibility in marital intimacy.


View of Caution and Disapproval:
Other scholars deem this act as immoral, indecent, and contrary to human dignity. Their stance includes:

  • The act reflects Western cultural influence, which conflicts with Islamic values.
  • The Prophet ﷺ emphasized human dignity and self-respect in his teachings.

② Human Dignity and Islamic Ethical Principles​


Respect for the Tongue:

  • The tongue is among the noblest organs, used for reciting Qur'an, remembrance (dhikr), and supplication (duʿāʼ).
  • Using the mouth and tongue for private parts contradicts self-respect and Islamic ethics.

Teachings of the Prophet ﷺ:

  • The Prophet ﷺ used his right hand for noble actions and the left hand for cleansing.
  • This illustrates Islam’s emphasis on cleanliness and dignity even in the smallest of actions.

③ Influence and Imitation of Western Culture​

  • Such acts are often a product of Western culture and moral laxity, aimed at undermining human values.
  • Imitating non-Islamic practices is discouraged in Islam, as mentioned in the ḥadīth:

"Whoever imitates a people is one of them."
(Sunan Abī Dāwūd: 4031)


④ Avoidance of Doubtful Matters​


The Prophet ﷺ stated:


"The lawful is clear, and the unlawful is clear, and between them are matters that are doubtful..."
(Ṣaḥīḥ al-Bukhārī: 52)



Although oral sex is not unanimously declared ḥarām, it is categorized among doubtful matters, and hence, best avoided.

⑤ Moderation in Marital Relations​

  • Allah ﷻ has allowed ample lawful means for fulfilling marital desires.
  • Avoiding indecent or questionable practices is a sign of taqwā (God-consciousness) and moral discipline.

❖ Conclusion:​


Caution and Human Dignity:
Oral sex should be avoided due to its indecency, incompatibility with Islamic ethics, and association with Western influences.


Remain Within Sharīʿah Boundaries:
Engage in marital practices that uphold self-respect and align with Islamic moral principles.


Avoid Doubtful Practices:
Steering clear of doubtful acts, like oral sex, is preferable for earning the pleasure of Allah.


والله أعلم بالصواب
 
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