Is Masturbation Haram or Halal

 

Question

As-salaam Alaikum, I want to know if it’s halal or haram to masturbate.  

Answer

 

Masturbation (both for men and women) is haram (forbidden) in Islam. This ruling is backed by evidence from the Quran and Hadith of the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him).

Quran on Masturbation

Al-iman Shafi’i stated that masturbation is forbidden based on the following verses from the Quran:

“And who guard their private parts. Except before their mates or those whom their right hands possess, for they surely are not blameable. But whoever seeks to go beyond that, these are they that exceed the limits.” – (Al-Mumenoon 23: 5-7)

The verse above clearly forbids all illegal sexual acts (which masturbation is categorized under) except for the wives or whom their right hands possess. (And whoever seeks beyond has exceeded their limits.)

ALSO READ: HOW TO CURE MASTURBATION ADDICTION 

Hadith on Masturbation   

‘Abdullaah ibn Masood said, “We were with the Prophet (peace and blessing be upon him) while we were young and had no wealth whatsoever. Allah’s Messenger (peace and blessings be upon him) said, ‘O young people! Whoever among you can marry, should marry, because it helps him lower his gaze and guard his modesty (i.e. his private parts from committing illegal sexual intercourse etc.), and whoever is not able to marry, should fast, as fasting diminishes his sexual power.’” (Al-Bukhari: 5066).

The Hadith above orders men who are not able to marry to fast, and not to masturbate or engage in any kinds of illegal sexual acts.

Allah knows best.