Sexual Relationships

Question 1

What is adultery?

Answer 1

Sex where one or both of those involved are already married to someone else (extramarital sex)

Question 2

What is homosexuality?

Answer 2

Sexual relations between 2 people of the same sex

Question 3

What is premarital sex?

Answer 3

a sexual relationship which occurs before marriage

Question 4

What are some Muslim teachings about sexual relationships?

Answer 4

1. Physical - Sexual desire is natural and Muslims are taught it is best fulfilled within marriage (to avoid such things as unplanned pregnancies)
2. Emotional - by committing themselves to each other, they become a means of comfort for each other
3. Spiritual - Muslims believe that these type of relationships provides an individual with a soulmate for life

Question 5

What are Islamic teachings on sex outside of marriage?

Answer 5

Islam forbids premarital sex, it is viewed as a sin. To avoid sexual relationships outside of marriage, islam also forbids boys and girls mixing freely and encourages modest dress. They are taught to ‘guard their chastity’

Question 6

What are Islamic teachings on adultery?

Answer 6

Adultery is condemned in Islam. The punishment for it is striking the adulterer and adulteress one hundred times. This punishment only applies if 4 people have seen the act of adultery.

Question 7

What are Islamic teachings on homosexuality?

Answer 7

Homosexuality is a sin in Islam as it is regarded as unnatural and goes against Allah’s will. One of the purposes of human creation is to reproduce; this is not possible in a homosexual relationship.

1. Iran - homosexuality is a sin and punished the same way as adultery
2. Turkey - not illegal, but it is illegal for them to marry
3. UK - is legal and they’re permitted to marry

Question 8

What are non- religious attitudes to sexual relationships?

Answer 8

1. Traditional views and religious beliefs about sex are no longer relevant
2. Adultery is not illegal
3. Premarital sex allows people to see if they are physically compatible
4. Homosexuality is natural and same-sex marriages are now legal anyway on many countries
5. Opposing homosexuality can lead to intolerance and homophobia
6. The availability of contraception allows individuals to make sensible decisions about their sex lives

Question 9

What are Muslim responses towards forbidden sexual relationships?

Answer 9

1. Many Muslims see the rise in sexual relationships outside of marriage unhealthy for society
2. Punishments given in Islam reflect how sinful some sexual acts are
3. Some Muslims believe that some teachings about sexual relationships should not apply today. they would e.g. support LGBT Muslims in their community