Abdullah -Anon
23-07-07, 09:25 PM
Assalamu alaikum
I am a young Muslim. I am not gay or homosexual. I say this because the former implies pride and ostentation and the latter implies activity; neither of which are the case for me. However, I am by Allah’s will, currently attracted to men.
I am writing this article to show that homosexuality is completely against Islam, and give some advice on its roots and how to deal with it; for Islam always provides a straight path and a way to keep away from evil. I would also like to invalidate the ‘Gay Muslim’ debate in the news. The article comes from a male perspective but does not necessarily exclude women.
Can you be Muslim and gay?
--------------------------------------------------------------------
It is permissible to be attracted to members of the same sex, as this is beyond one’s control. However to be ostentatious about the matter, or act on it, is completely haraam (forbidden in Islam, forbidden by Allah).
Homosexuality involves having sexual intercourse with a member of the same sex. Whether being gay is ‘nature’ or ‘nurture’ is unimportant to the person who wants to practise Islam. It is clear in Islam that it is certainly not allowed. Not only this, but there are also laws and guidance which prevent us from even approaching it or any form of extra marital sex, as a mercy from Allah. Before reading the points below it is important to have some understanding of the homosexual lifestyle. It is a lifestyle commonly full of sex in many forms; promiscuity, nudity, tight or revealing clothes, imitating members of the other sex, nightclubs and drinking. Note also that there is no modesty in religious instruction, and so to avoid confusion, everything is stated clearly.
1. It is unlawful for a man to marry a man. It is unlawful to have sex outside marriage.
2. It is unlawful to imitate members of the other sex.
3. It is unlawful to expose between the navel and knee except to your wife. This includes when playing sports, or going to the gym.
4. It is unlawful to approach your wife from behind (the position is allowed, but penetration into the anus is impermissible). It is also dangerous, and especially helps the spread of Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs) such as HIV.
5. It is now commonly agreed by scholars that oral sex is impermissible. The substances involved in sex are not meant for consumption, and the affects are harmful.
6. Group sex is impermissible. Group sex is becoming common practice among heterosexuals and homosexuals and is a deviation from the laws of Islam, the laws of true humanity.
7. Going to nightclubs and dancing in tight clothes is impermissible. This is a component of the ‘gay scene’.
8. Pornography (showing full nudity between navel and knee for men, or even tight clothes around this area) is not allowed to be viewed. Viewing scenes of sex is completely unlawful.
9. Masturbation is not allowed, sometimes exceptions can apply. One exception is applied by some scholars in a case where adultery is extremely likely, but most agree it is forbidden and those that apply this exception only state it is the lesser of two evils. It is advised in Islam to get married as soon as possible, and also that if one does not have the means to get married, to fast regularly to control and minimise sexual desire.
10. Prophet Muhammad (pbuh) said: "Allah’s curse falls on ten groups of people who deal with alcohol. The one who distills it, the one for whom it has been distilled, the one who drinks it, the one who transports it, the one to who it has been brought, the one whom serves it, the one who sells it, the one who utilizes money from it, the one who buys it and the one who buys it for someone else."
Alcohol plays a major part in the ‘hedonistic’ and common ‘gay’ lifestyles and often leads people to have extra marital sex who otherwise would have controlled their desires.
The rules apply to ALL Muslims, not just to select few. There are many completely heterosexual Muslims who need to start following these rules as well. They are there for a reason, as are all the instructions in Islam. There is great wisdom behind the guidance, rules and even those practises which might appear ritualistic in Islam.
Islamic Law and Homosexuality
----------------------------------------------------------------------
An-Nisa, starting at 15–16:
"If two men among you are guilty of lewdness, punish them both. If they repent and amend, Leave them alone; for Allah is Oft-returning, Most Merciful." (Qur'an 4:15–16)
The same rules apply in relation to heterosexuals and homosexuals in Islamic Law established under an Islam-governed state. The punishment for a man who fornicates before marriage is 80 lashes, whether with a man or a woman. The fornication would have to be proven in both cases with four witnesses. The difference comes in that a man cannot marry a man under Islamic Law. It is also important to bear in mind, that if someone kills a man on the basis that it is believed he is attracted to men, this would be seen as murder – and that murderer would be killed under Islamic Law. It is not permissible to attack, swear at, murder, or hate someone who is attracted to a member of the same sex; nor is it permissible to take the law into your own hands in cases where sexual intercourse occurred – a trial must take place.
The common causes of Homosexuality
--------------------------------------------------------------------------
The attraction to members of the same sex can arise from many situations. It can be due to abuse - mental, physical, or sexual (e.g. rape). Many men turn to homosexuality due to over exposure to pornography and sex, or as a result of being sexually abused as a child. Many women turn to lesbianism as a result of being victims of child abuse, rape, in abusive marriages/ relationships and suffering from domestic violence – and hence losing trust in men. However, be assured that these are not the only reasons as many people will testify. From an Islamic perspective, we can say that the attraction to members of the same sex can be seen as a test. If we do not fall into acting upon it – and Allah does not burden us with that which we are not able to bear - then there is a great reward from Allah for this. The more temptation resisted the greater the reward; but as we never know when Shaytaan will manage to overpower us, it is necessary to keep clear of temptation.
The origin of homosexuality is mentioned in the Qur’an
"We also sent Lut: He said to his people: Do ye commit lewdness such as no people in creation (ever) committed before you? For ye practice your lusts on men in preference to women: ye are indeed a people transgressing beyond bounds. And his people gave no answer but this: they said, "Drive them out of your city: these are indeed men who want to be clean and pure!""
(Qur'an 7:80-82)
You can understand from this that Prophet Lut (peace be upon him) did not insult or physically attack the homosexuals, he only gave the warning that he was sent by Allah to give. It is sometimes argued that Lut (peace be upon him) was speaking of them trying to rape the two ‘men’ who came to visit him, not about a mutual sexual relationship between men. We do have to understand that Lut (peace be upon him) was in a different situation to some extent, but along with the Islamic injunctions mentioned earlier, it is clear that any type of sexual relationship between men is unlawful.
Invalidating the ‘Gay Muslim’ debate
-------------------------------------------------------------------------
Recently, there has been an increase in debates about whether it is permissible to be gay in Islam. For instance, consider the documentary ‘Gay Muslims’ on Channel 4. The programme showed the lives of some ‘Gay Muslims,’ giving them the opportunity to speak about their lives, experiences and why they think it is allowed in Islam for them to act on their attraction to the same sex. The problem with having this kind of documentary is that it puts forward an unfair debate. Opinions are given by some (often carefully mis-selected) scholars, who are ultimately made to sound like dictators, and then professing ‘gay’ Muslims. However, it does not give the opportunity to Muslims like me to express our views. It is also unsuitable for us to form organisations. This is because we would not like for anyone to know that we were attracted to men as this would promote stigma and would not be good for society; this is the best approach as a Muslim. I noticed that those who were shown as ‘Gay Muslims’ were often not really practising Muslims (although they might pray). Had they tried to hide there sins that would be different, for Muslims are advised to hide sins. But these people were open sinners spreading the knowledge of their sinful activities on national TV; they would go to nightclubs, drink, and be involved with gay parades (with nudity and sex as running themes).
A message to those who find they are attracted to the same sex, are gay, or
------------------------------------------------------------------------ are homosexual
----------------
There is a place for us in Islam and Paradise, but we must recognise our sins as sins, and make the efforts to stop doing them. When we seek Allah, if we walk towards Him, He runs towards us. I warn myself and you to stop evil practises before it is too late and they take us to the Hell-fire. Allah knows best in all matters and the laws in Islam bring only good to us, He is Al-Hakim (The Most Wise). Remember your relationship with Allah; it is not about what others might think or what they say, it is about what Allah thinks and what He will ask you on the Day of Judgement. If someone says, or makes you feel that you are not a Muslim, just say “La ilaha illAllah Muhammadur Rasulullah – There is no god but Allah and Muhammad is His Messenger.” No one can say with surety that another will go to Hell, they are foolish if they think so, Allah is Al-Hakam, The Ultimate Judge of people.
A really helpful, sincere and supportive website: http://www.straightstruggle.com/
Finishing up
-------------------------------------------------------------------------
This is not the only discussion where people like me (this article does not summarise me, but currently an undeniable part of me) exist. I ask all of those who are already Muslims and the rest of mankind; please think beyond what your eyes see, ponder on Allah’s Words and then spread them with WISDOM. If people don’t find the comfort they should with Muslims, they will look for it somewhere else! We need to have these discussions before we are forced to have them by islamaphobic documentaries.
May Allah accept this article from me, bless it with the strength of guidance, and forgive me for the mistakes I may have made therein.
I am a young Muslim. I am not gay or homosexual. I say this because the former implies pride and ostentation and the latter implies activity; neither of which are the case for me. However, I am by Allah’s will, currently attracted to men.
I am writing this article to show that homosexuality is completely against Islam, and give some advice on its roots and how to deal with it; for Islam always provides a straight path and a way to keep away from evil. I would also like to invalidate the ‘Gay Muslim’ debate in the news. The article comes from a male perspective but does not necessarily exclude women.
Can you be Muslim and gay?
--------------------------------------------------------------------
It is permissible to be attracted to members of the same sex, as this is beyond one’s control. However to be ostentatious about the matter, or act on it, is completely haraam (forbidden in Islam, forbidden by Allah).
Homosexuality involves having sexual intercourse with a member of the same sex. Whether being gay is ‘nature’ or ‘nurture’ is unimportant to the person who wants to practise Islam. It is clear in Islam that it is certainly not allowed. Not only this, but there are also laws and guidance which prevent us from even approaching it or any form of extra marital sex, as a mercy from Allah. Before reading the points below it is important to have some understanding of the homosexual lifestyle. It is a lifestyle commonly full of sex in many forms; promiscuity, nudity, tight or revealing clothes, imitating members of the other sex, nightclubs and drinking. Note also that there is no modesty in religious instruction, and so to avoid confusion, everything is stated clearly.
1. It is unlawful for a man to marry a man. It is unlawful to have sex outside marriage.
2. It is unlawful to imitate members of the other sex.
3. It is unlawful to expose between the navel and knee except to your wife. This includes when playing sports, or going to the gym.
4. It is unlawful to approach your wife from behind (the position is allowed, but penetration into the anus is impermissible). It is also dangerous, and especially helps the spread of Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs) such as HIV.
5. It is now commonly agreed by scholars that oral sex is impermissible. The substances involved in sex are not meant for consumption, and the affects are harmful.
6. Group sex is impermissible. Group sex is becoming common practice among heterosexuals and homosexuals and is a deviation from the laws of Islam, the laws of true humanity.
7. Going to nightclubs and dancing in tight clothes is impermissible. This is a component of the ‘gay scene’.
8. Pornography (showing full nudity between navel and knee for men, or even tight clothes around this area) is not allowed to be viewed. Viewing scenes of sex is completely unlawful.
9. Masturbation is not allowed, sometimes exceptions can apply. One exception is applied by some scholars in a case where adultery is extremely likely, but most agree it is forbidden and those that apply this exception only state it is the lesser of two evils. It is advised in Islam to get married as soon as possible, and also that if one does not have the means to get married, to fast regularly to control and minimise sexual desire.
10. Prophet Muhammad (pbuh) said: "Allah’s curse falls on ten groups of people who deal with alcohol. The one who distills it, the one for whom it has been distilled, the one who drinks it, the one who transports it, the one to who it has been brought, the one whom serves it, the one who sells it, the one who utilizes money from it, the one who buys it and the one who buys it for someone else."
Alcohol plays a major part in the ‘hedonistic’ and common ‘gay’ lifestyles and often leads people to have extra marital sex who otherwise would have controlled their desires.
The rules apply to ALL Muslims, not just to select few. There are many completely heterosexual Muslims who need to start following these rules as well. They are there for a reason, as are all the instructions in Islam. There is great wisdom behind the guidance, rules and even those practises which might appear ritualistic in Islam.
Islamic Law and Homosexuality
----------------------------------------------------------------------
An-Nisa, starting at 15–16:
"If two men among you are guilty of lewdness, punish them both. If they repent and amend, Leave them alone; for Allah is Oft-returning, Most Merciful." (Qur'an 4:15–16)
The same rules apply in relation to heterosexuals and homosexuals in Islamic Law established under an Islam-governed state. The punishment for a man who fornicates before marriage is 80 lashes, whether with a man or a woman. The fornication would have to be proven in both cases with four witnesses. The difference comes in that a man cannot marry a man under Islamic Law. It is also important to bear in mind, that if someone kills a man on the basis that it is believed he is attracted to men, this would be seen as murder – and that murderer would be killed under Islamic Law. It is not permissible to attack, swear at, murder, or hate someone who is attracted to a member of the same sex; nor is it permissible to take the law into your own hands in cases where sexual intercourse occurred – a trial must take place.
The common causes of Homosexuality
--------------------------------------------------------------------------
The attraction to members of the same sex can arise from many situations. It can be due to abuse - mental, physical, or sexual (e.g. rape). Many men turn to homosexuality due to over exposure to pornography and sex, or as a result of being sexually abused as a child. Many women turn to lesbianism as a result of being victims of child abuse, rape, in abusive marriages/ relationships and suffering from domestic violence – and hence losing trust in men. However, be assured that these are not the only reasons as many people will testify. From an Islamic perspective, we can say that the attraction to members of the same sex can be seen as a test. If we do not fall into acting upon it – and Allah does not burden us with that which we are not able to bear - then there is a great reward from Allah for this. The more temptation resisted the greater the reward; but as we never know when Shaytaan will manage to overpower us, it is necessary to keep clear of temptation.
The origin of homosexuality is mentioned in the Qur’an
"We also sent Lut: He said to his people: Do ye commit lewdness such as no people in creation (ever) committed before you? For ye practice your lusts on men in preference to women: ye are indeed a people transgressing beyond bounds. And his people gave no answer but this: they said, "Drive them out of your city: these are indeed men who want to be clean and pure!""
(Qur'an 7:80-82)
You can understand from this that Prophet Lut (peace be upon him) did not insult or physically attack the homosexuals, he only gave the warning that he was sent by Allah to give. It is sometimes argued that Lut (peace be upon him) was speaking of them trying to rape the two ‘men’ who came to visit him, not about a mutual sexual relationship between men. We do have to understand that Lut (peace be upon him) was in a different situation to some extent, but along with the Islamic injunctions mentioned earlier, it is clear that any type of sexual relationship between men is unlawful.
Invalidating the ‘Gay Muslim’ debate
-------------------------------------------------------------------------
Recently, there has been an increase in debates about whether it is permissible to be gay in Islam. For instance, consider the documentary ‘Gay Muslims’ on Channel 4. The programme showed the lives of some ‘Gay Muslims,’ giving them the opportunity to speak about their lives, experiences and why they think it is allowed in Islam for them to act on their attraction to the same sex. The problem with having this kind of documentary is that it puts forward an unfair debate. Opinions are given by some (often carefully mis-selected) scholars, who are ultimately made to sound like dictators, and then professing ‘gay’ Muslims. However, it does not give the opportunity to Muslims like me to express our views. It is also unsuitable for us to form organisations. This is because we would not like for anyone to know that we were attracted to men as this would promote stigma and would not be good for society; this is the best approach as a Muslim. I noticed that those who were shown as ‘Gay Muslims’ were often not really practising Muslims (although they might pray). Had they tried to hide there sins that would be different, for Muslims are advised to hide sins. But these people were open sinners spreading the knowledge of their sinful activities on national TV; they would go to nightclubs, drink, and be involved with gay parades (with nudity and sex as running themes).
A message to those who find they are attracted to the same sex, are gay, or
------------------------------------------------------------------------ are homosexual
----------------
There is a place for us in Islam and Paradise, but we must recognise our sins as sins, and make the efforts to stop doing them. When we seek Allah, if we walk towards Him, He runs towards us. I warn myself and you to stop evil practises before it is too late and they take us to the Hell-fire. Allah knows best in all matters and the laws in Islam bring only good to us, He is Al-Hakim (The Most Wise). Remember your relationship with Allah; it is not about what others might think or what they say, it is about what Allah thinks and what He will ask you on the Day of Judgement. If someone says, or makes you feel that you are not a Muslim, just say “La ilaha illAllah Muhammadur Rasulullah – There is no god but Allah and Muhammad is His Messenger.” No one can say with surety that another will go to Hell, they are foolish if they think so, Allah is Al-Hakam, The Ultimate Judge of people.
A really helpful, sincere and supportive website: http://www.straightstruggle.com/
Finishing up
-------------------------------------------------------------------------
This is not the only discussion where people like me (this article does not summarise me, but currently an undeniable part of me) exist. I ask all of those who are already Muslims and the rest of mankind; please think beyond what your eyes see, ponder on Allah’s Words and then spread them with WISDOM. If people don’t find the comfort they should with Muslims, they will look for it somewhere else! We need to have these discussions before we are forced to have them by islamaphobic documentaries.
May Allah accept this article from me, bless it with the strength of guidance, and forgive me for the mistakes I may have made therein.