ISLAM AND ASEXUALITY

This post was originally published at The Asexual Agenda.

Islamic Teachings on Marriage and Asexuality
Qur’anic Insight:

Allah says in Ar-Rum 30:21:
“And one of His signs is that He created for you mates from among yourselves so that you may find tranquility in them; and He placed between you affection and mercy.”

Prophet’s Guidance:

Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) advised young people to marry if they can afford it, as it helps lower the gaze and protect chastity. For those who cannot, fasting is recommended to curb desires (Al-Bukhari and Muslim).

Marriage in Islam:

Generally encouraged but becomes mandatory when one fears falling into sin.

Lack of sexual desire is not sinful and does not prevent marriage, provided both parties consent and potential challenges are acknowledged.

Transparency in Marriage:

Individuals lacking sexual desire should inform potential spouses beforehand.

Marriage is recommended if both partners agree and no harm results, as it offers emotional and social benefits.

Misguided Avoidance:

Avoiding marital relations purely due to intellectual objections contradicts Islamic teachings about love, mercy, and fulfillment.

Blog Excerpts

“How Islam Views Asexuality (Fatwa)

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Asexuality and Islam

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Islam, Queerness, and Asexuality | ANOAQA“

Asian Network of A-Spec Queer Activists

Reflections from Creating Change 2017: Identity, Activism, and Belonging

• Intersectional Struggles:
  • A queer Muslim convert navigating asexuality faced challenges in finding inclusive spaces.
  • Local Muslim communities were often unwelcoming, and LGBTQ+ groups lacked understanding of asexuality or Muslim identities.
• Inclusive Spaces at the Conference:
  • Panels and gatherings for asexuality and Islamophobia.
  • Unofficial spaces like the ace hospitality suite and queer Muslim caucus.
  • Spiritual solace at the Many Paths Spiritual Gathering Place.
• Advocacy and Networking:
  • Advocated for asexual Muslim inclusion with leaders like Imam Tynan Power.
  • Shared resources with LGBTQ+ centers to support ace youth.
• Professional Growth:
  • Attended workshops on racial justice, nonprofit funding, and systemic issues.
  • Collaborated with organizations like MuslimARC to combat systemic oppression.
• Spiritual and Emotional Validation:
  • Prayer and spiritual care sessions helped integrate anti-racist work with queer spirituality.
  • Participated in the Philadelphia Women’s March, celebrating both queer and Muslim identities.
• Takeaways:
  • Despite microaggressions and limited support, the conference was transformative.
  • Revitalized commitment to advocacy and the importance of belonging in activism spaces.