SEX IN ISLAM

From Philosopedia

SEX IN ISLAM

Muslims generally understand sexual fulfillment within marriage for both parties to be the ideal state of affairs. One’s sexual needs must be understood and satisfied. Licensed sex is neither sinful nor restricted solely to procreation: it serves as a means of communication and a source of solace. Muslims complain that others misinterpret their teachings, for it would be a corruption of Muslim practice if women within the marriage institution were considered a degradation. On the contrary, Muslim leaders insist, but virginity is highly valued for girls. To control impregnation (aze), the Prophet recommended coitus interruptus. Most Muslims disapprove of abortion, unless the mother’s life is severely medically compromised.

Female circumcision is practiced in many parts of Africa in order to control female sexuality and insure virginity at the time of marriage. As for polygamy, a man’s needs often exceed a woman’s, according to the patriarchal outlook. The man must not take more wives, however, than he can afford.

Homosexuality is either considered unlawful, abnormal, punishable under the shariah, or tolerated in those areas where homosexuals are viewed as a “third sex,” neither men nor women.

(See entry for Heaven–Muslim, for sex continues even after one’s death. Also see Ibn Warraq’s Why I Am Not A Muslim.)