Sex Education: An Islamic Perspective

Category: Americas, Featured, Life & Society Topics: Children, Parents, Sex Values: Education Views: 167052
167052

If you tell kids about sex, they'll do it. If you tell them about VD, they'll go out and get it. Incredible as may seem, most oppositions to sex education in this country are based on the assumption that knowledge is harmful. But research in this area reveals that ignorance and unresolved curiosity, not knowledge, are harmful. Our failure to tell children what they want and need to know is one reason we have the highest rates of out-of-wedlock teens pregnancy and abortion of any highly developed country in the world."

"What Kids Need to Know," Psychology Today, October 1986. Dr. Sol Gordon,
Professor Emeritus, Syracuse University, and an expert on sex education.

"Say: Are they equal those who know, and those who do not know?" (Quran 39:9).

"Blessed are the women of the Helpers. Their modesty did not stand in the way of their seeking knowledge about their religion" (Saying of the Prophet - Bukhari and Muslim).

Introduction

Although the Quran has placed so much emphasis on acquiring knowledge, and in the days of Prophet Muhammad Muslim men and women were never too shy to ask him questions including those related to private affairs such as sexual life, for Muslim parents of today, sex is a dirty word. They feel uncomfortable in discussing sex education with their children, but do not mind the same being taught at their children's school by secular or non-Muslim teachers (of even the opposite sex), by their peers of either sex, and by the media and television. An average child is exposed to 9000 sexual scenes per year.

These parents should know that sex is not always a dirty word. It is an important aspect of our life. God Who cares for all the aspects of our life, and not just the way of worshiping Him, discusses reproduction, creation, family life, menstruation and even ejaculation in the Quran. Prophet Muhammad , who was sent to us as an example, discussed many aspects of sexual life including sexual positions with his Companions.

The main reason Muslim parents do not or cannot discuss sex education with their children is because of the their cultural upbringing, not their religious training. They are often brought up in a state of ignorance in regard to sex issues. As a result, they may not be comfortable with their own sexuality or its expression. They leave Islamic education to Islamic Sunday schools and sex education to American public schools and the media.

What is sex education and who should give it?

Is sex education about knowing the anatomy and physiology of the human body or about the act of sex or about reproduction and family life or about prevention of sexually transmitted diseases and unwanted pregnancy? Is giving sex ed equivalent to permission in engaging in sex? One sex educator at my son's school told the parents, "I am not planning to tell your children whether or not they should engage in sex or how to do it but in case they decide to do it, they should know how to prevent sexually transmitted diseases (STD), venereal diseases (VD), acquired immune deficiency syndrome (AIDS) and pregnancy."

The problem with this is that at the present time sex ed as taught in the public schools is incomplete. It does not cover morality associated with sex, sexual dysfunctions and deviations and the institution of marriage.

One of the basic questions is, "Do children need sex education?" Do you teach a baby duck how to swim or just put it in the water and let it swim? After all, for thousands of years men and women have been having sex without any formal education. In many traditional civilizations, sex education starts after marriage and with trial and error. Some couples learn it faster than others and do it better than others due to difference in sexual perception and expression of one partner. In my opinion having a dozen children is not necessarily proof of their love. An appropriate and healthy sex education is crucial to the fulfillment of a happy marriage.

With regard to the question who should teach sex education, I believe everyone has to play his or her role. Parents have to assume a more responsible role. A father has a duty to be able to answer his son's questions and a mother has the same duty to her daughter. We can hardly influence the sex ed taught in public schools or by the media, but we can supplement that with an ethical and moral dimension adding family love and responsibility. Apart from these players, some role can be played by Sunday school teachers, the family physician, the pediatrician and the clergy. Within a family, the older sister has a duty towards the younger one and the elder brother has a duty towards younger ones.

Sex Education in American Schools

Sex education is given in every American school, public or private, from grades 2 to 12. The projected 1990 cost to the nation was $2 billion per year. Teachers are told to give technical aspects of sex ed without telling the students about moral values or how to make the right decisions. After describing the male and female anatomy and reproduction, the main emphasis is on the prevention of venereal diseases and teenage pregnancy. With the rise of AIDS, the focus is on 'Safe Sex' which means having condoms available each time you decide to have sex with someone you don't know. With the help of our tax dollars, about 76 schools in the country have started dispensing free condoms and contraceptives to those who go to school health clinics. Very soon there will be vending machines in school hallways where 'children' can get a condom each time they feel like having sex.

The role of parents is minimized by American sex educators and sometimes ridiculed. In one of the sex ed movies I was made to watch a film called, "Am I Normal?" as a parent at my son's school. Whenever the young boy asks his father a question about sex, the father, shown as a bum and a slob, shuns him and changes the topic. Finally the boy learns it from a stranger and then is shown going into a movie theater with his girlfriend.

Sex education as promoted by some Western educators is devoid of morality is in many ways unacceptable to our value system. The examples of the teachings of one such educator are:

A. Nudity in homes (in shower or bedroom) is a good and healthy way to introduce sexuality to smaller (under 5) children, giving them an opportunity to ask questions. At the same time, in the same book, he also states that 75% of all child molestation and incest (500,000 per year) occur by a close relative (parent, step-parent or another family member).

B. A child's playing with genitals of another child is a permissible 'naive exploration' and not a reason for scolding or punishment. He is also aware that boys as young as 12 have raped girls as young as 8. We don't know when this 'naive exploration' becomes a sex act.

C. Children caught reading dirty magazines should not be made to feel guilty, but parents should use it as a chance to get some useful points across to him or her about sexual attitudes, values and sex exploitation, Like charity, pornography should start at home!

D. If your daughter or son is already sexually active, instead of telling them to stop, the parent's moral duty is to protect their health and career by providing them information and means for contraception and avoiding VD. Maybe this its true for rebellious teens and their submissive parents!

Educators like the one referred to above do not believe that giving sexual information means giving the OK for sex. I just wonder as to why some folks after being told the shape, color, smell and taste of a new fruit, and pleasures derived from eating it, would not like to try it? These educators say that even if your child does not ask any questions about sex, parents should initiate the discussion using i.e. a neighbors pregnancy, a pet's behavior, advertisement, popular music or a TV show. I wonder why these educators are obsessed with loading children with sexual information whether they want it or not.

The more they know it - The more they do it

Sex education in American schools has not helped decrease the teenager incidence of VD or teenage pregnancy. This is because it has not changed their sex habits. According to Marion Wright Elderman, President of the Children' Defense Fund, in a recent report, out of every twenty teens, ten are sexually active but only four use conceptions, two get pregnant and one gives birth. In 1982, a John Hopkins study found one out of every five 15 year old, and one in three 16 year old are sexually active. The incidence increased to 43% in 17 year old. The Louis Harris poll in 1986 found that 57% of the nations 17 year old, 46% of 16 year old, 29% 15 year old were sexually active. Now it is estimated that about 80% of girls entering college had sexual intercourse at least once. Going to church does not help either. 1438 teenagers, mostly white, attending conservative evangelical church were sent questions about their sex life. 26% of 16 year old, 35% of 17 year old, and 43% of 18 year old said they had sexual intercourse at least once. 33% that responded also said sex outside of marriage was morally acceptable.

Hazards of early sex

The health hazards of early sex includes sexual trauma, increase in incidence of cervical cancer, sexually transmitted disease and teenage pregnancy. We will take up each individually. A variety of injuries are possible and do happen when sex organs are not ready for sex in terms of full maturation. Some of these injuries have a long lasting effect. Cervical cancer has been thought to be related to sex at an early age and with multiple partners. Dr. Nelson and his associates in their article on epidemiology of cervical cancer call it a sexually transmitted disease.

Teenage Pregnancy

About one million or more teenage girls become pregnant every year, at a rate of 3000 per day, 80% of whom are unmarried. Out of this I million, about 500,000, decide to keep their baby, and 450,000 are aborted (or ? murdered). 100,000 decide to deliver and give the baby up for adoption. In 1950 the incidence of birth from unmarried teenagers was only 13.9%, but in 1985 it increased to 59%. It is a myth that teenage pregnancy is a problem of the black and poor. To the contrary 2/3 teens getting pregnant now are white, suburban and above the poverty income level. The pregnancy rate (without marriage) in 54,000 enlisted Navy women is 40% as compared to 17% in the general population.

What is the life of those who have teenage pregnancy? Only 50% complete high school and more than 50% of them are on welfare. They themselves become child abusers and their children, when grown up, have 82% incidence of teenage pregnancy. 8.6 billion dollars are spent every year for the financial and health care support of teenage mothers., The sexual revolution of the 60's has affected another dimension of health care. In 1985 alone, 10 million cases of chlamydia, 2 million cases of gonorrhea, I million venereal warts, 0.5 million genital herpes and 90,000 syphilis were diagnosed. The plague of AIDS is adding a new twist to our fears. 200,000 cases have been diagnosed in the US alone, out of which 50% have already died. The disease is growing at a rate of one case every 14 minutes and so far there is no effective treatment. Father Bruce Ritter in New York, who operates shelters for runaway children, says the biggest threat to the nation's 1 million runaways is the threat of AIDS now.

Why do children get involved in sex?

There are many reasons why children get involved in sex. The most common is peer pressure. Their common response is "since everybody is doing it." One of the reasons is their desire for sexual competence with adults and a way to get ahead. Another common reason is their lack of self-esteem which they want to improve by becoming a father or mother. Sometimes it is due to a lack of other alternatives to divert their sexual energies. It could also be due to a lack of love and appreciation at home. Detachment from home can lead to attachment elsewhere. Sexual pressure on them is everywhere, at school from their peers, from the TV where about 20,000 sexual scenes are broadcasted in advertisement, soap operas, prime time shows and MTV. The hard core rock music nowadays fans the flames of sexual desires. Most parents do not know what kind of music their children are hearing. If they care and listen to rock songs like Eat Me Alive (Judas Priest), Purple Rain (Prince), Losing It (Madonna), The Last American Virgin, Papa Don't Preach, Private Dancer (Tina Turner), Material Girl (Madonna) and Cyndi Lauper's songs, they will know what they are talking about. The songs have pornographic words and sentences which made Kandy Stroud, a former rock fan, begged parents to stop their children from listening to what she calls 'Pornographic Rock'. This shows music does affect our sexual mood. It does so by activating melatonin, the hormone from the pineal gland in the brain which is turned on by darkness and turned off by flashing lights. It is the same gland which has been thought to trigger puberty and affects the reproductive cycle and sex mood.

What is the role of parents?

American educators are putting the blame for their failures (i.e. teenage pregnancy) on the parents. In fact in Wisconsin and many other states the grandparents of a baby born to a teenager are responsible for the financial support of the child. Remember parents are not needed if their teenage daughter needs contraceptives or abortion. Faced with such hypocrisy, the parents job is to instill in their teenagers mind what is not taught in sex ed classes, i.e. reason not to engage in sex, reason not to get pregnant, etc. At the same time, they should divert their energies to some productive activities like community work, sports, character growth, or Sunday schools. Another role of parents is to help their children make the right decisions.

In Islam anything which leads to wrong is also considered wrong. Therefore parents should control the music children are listening to or the TV program they are watching, the magazines they are reading, and the clothes (which may provoke desire in the opposite sex) they are wearing. While group social activity should be permitted with supervision, dating should not be allowed. When American teenagers start dating, sex is on their mind.

In fact during a recent survey, 25% of college freshman boys responded by saying that if they have paid for the food and the girl does not go all the way, they have a right to force her to have sex. Many of the rapes occur at the end of the date and are not reported. Anything which breaks down sexual inhibition and loss of self-control i.e. alcohol, drugs, parking, petting or just being together for two members of the opposite sex in a secluded place should not be allowed for Muslim teenagers. Kissing and petting is preparing the body for sex. The body can be brought to a point of no return.

In summary Muslim parents should teach their children that they are different from non-Muslims in their value system and way of life. Having a feeling and love in your heart for someone of the opposite sex is different and beyond control, while expression of the same through sex is entirely different and should be under control. Muslim children should be told that they don't drink alcohol, eat pork, take drugs, and they don't have to engage in pre-marital sex either.

Islamic concept of sexuality

Islam recognizes the power of sexual need, but the subject is discussed in the Quran and the saying of Prophet Muhammad in a serious manner, in regard to marital and family life. Parents should familiarize themselves with this body of knowledge.

Saying of Prophet Muhammad

* "When one of you have sex with your wife, it is a rewarded act of charity." The Companions were surprised and said, "But we do it purely out of our desire. How can it be counted as charity?" The Prophet replied, "If you had done it with a forbidden woman, it would have been counted as a sin, but if you do it in legitimacy, it is counted as charity."

* "Let not one of you fall upon his wife like a beast falls. It is more appropriate to send a message before the act."

* "Do not divulge the secrets of your sex life with your wife to another person nor describe her physical feature to anyone."

Concept of adultery in Islam

God says in the Quran, "Do not go near to adultery. Surely it is a shameful deed and evil, opening roads (to other evils)" (Quran 17:32). "Say, 'Verily, my Lord has prohibited the shameful deeds, be it open or secret, sins and trespasses against the truth and reason"' (Quran 7:33). "Women impure are for men impure, and men impure are for women impure and women of purity are for men of purity, and men of purity are for women of purity" (Quran 24:26). Prophet Muhammad, has said in many place that adultery is one of the three major sins. However the most interesting story is that of a young man who went to the Prophet and asked for permission to fornicate because he could not control himself. The Prophet dealt with him with reasoning and asked him if he would approve of someone else having illegal sex with his mother, sister, daughter or wife. Each time the man said 'no'. Then the Prophet replied that the woman with whom you plan to have sex is also somebody's mother, sister, daughter or wife. The man understood and repented. The Prophet prayed for his forgiveness.

Adultery is a crime not against one person but against the whole of society. It is a violation of marital contract. 50% of all first time marriages in this country result in divorce in two years and the main reason for divorce is the adultery of one of the partners. Adultery, which includes both pre-marital and extra marital sex, is an epidemic in this society. Nobody seems to listen to the Bible which says frequently, "Thou shall not commit adultery." The Quranic approach is, "Do not approach adultery."

What does it mean that not only is illegal sex prohibited, but anything which leads to illegal sex is also illegal? These things include dating, free mixing of the sexes, provocative dress, nudity, obscenity and pornography. The dress code both for men and women is to protect them from temptation and desires by on lookers who may lose self-control and fall into sin. "Say to the believing men that they should lower their gaze and guard their modesty; that will make for greater purity, and God is well acquainted with all they do. And say to the believing woman that they should lower their gaze, and guard their modesty" (Quran 24:30-31).

Concept of marriage in Islam

Islam recognizes the strong sexual urge and desire for reproduction. Thus Islam encourages marriage as a legal sexual means and as a shield from immorality (sex without commitment). In Islam the marriage of a man and woman is not just a financial and legal living arrangement, not even just for reproduction, but providing a total commitment to each other, a contract witnessed by God. Love and joy of companionship is a part of the commitment. A married couple assumes a new social status and responsibility for himself, his wife and his children and for the community. The Quran says, "Among His signs is that He created consorts for you from among yourself, so that you may find tranquility with them, and (He) set love and compassion between you. Verily in this are signs for people who reflect" (Quran 30:21).

Saying of Prophet Muhammad

"Marriage is my tradition. He who rejects my tradition is not of me" (Bukhari, Muslim).

"Marriage is half of religion. The other half is being Godfearing" (Tabarani, Hakim).

In Islam there is no fixed rule as to the age of marriage. It is becoming fashionable for young Muslim men not to marry until they have completed their education, have a job, or reached age 26-30 or more. Similarly young Muslim girls say they want to marry after age 24. Why? When asked, they say, "I am not ready for it." Not ready for what? Don't they have normal sexual desire? If the answer is yes, then they have only one of the two choices a) marry or b) postpone sex (abstinence until they marry). The Quran says, "Let those who find not the where withal for marriage, to keep them selves chaste till God find them the means from His Grace" (Quran 24:33).

The Prophet said, "Those of you who own the means should marry, otherwise should keep fasting for it curbs desires" (Ibn Massoud). The Western reason for delaying marriage is different than ours. When I suggested this to one of my sexually active young female patients, she bluntly said, "I don't want to sleep with the same guy every night."

Role of Muslim parents and Muslim organizations

I am not proposing that all Muslim youth be married at age 16. But I must say that youth should accept the biological instinct and make decisions which will help to develop a more satisfied life devoted to having a career rather than spending time in chasing (or dreaming about) the opposite sex. Parents should help their sons and daughters in selection of their mate using Islamic practice as a criteria and not race, color or wealth. They should encourage them to know each other in a supervised setting. The community organization has several roles to play.

To provide a platform for boys and girls to see and know each other without any intimacy.

Offer premarital educational courses to boys and girls over 18 separately to prepare them for the role of father and husband and of mother and wife. The father has a special role, mentioned by Prophet Muhammad , "One who is given by God, a child, he should give it a beautiful name, should give him or her education, and training and when he or she attains puberty, he should see to it that he or she is married. If the father does not arrange their marriage after puberty, and the boy or girl is involved in sin, the responsibility of that sin will lie with the father"

Marriage of Muslim girls in the USA

Marriage of Muslim girls in this country is becoming a problem. I was not surprised to read the letter of a Muslim father in a national magazine. He complained that in spite of his doing his best in teaching Islam to his children, his college-going daughter announced that she is going to marry a non-Muslim boy whom she met in college.

As a social scientist I am more interested in the analysis of the events. To be more specific, why would a Muslim girl prefer a non-Muslim boy over a Muslim? The following reasons come to mind:

She is opposed to and scared of arranged marriages. She should be told that not all arranged marriages are bad ones and that 50% of all love marriages end up in a divorce in this country. Arranged marriages can be successful if approved by both the boy and girl. That is, they need to be a party to the arrangement. I am myself opposed to the blind arranged marriage.

Muslim boys are not available to her to make a choice. While parents have no objection or cannot do anything about non-Muslim boys with whom she talks or socializes at school or college for forty hours a week, she is not allowed to talk to a Muslim boy in the mosque or in a social gathering. If she does, they frown at her or even accuse her of having a loss character. As a Muslim boy put it, "If I grow up knowing only non-Muslim girls, why do my parents expect me to marry a Muslim one?"

Some Muslim boys do not care for Muslim girls. On the pretext of missionary work after marriage, they get involved with non-Muslim girls because of their easy availability. Muslim parents who also live with an inferiority complex do not mind their son marrying an American girl of European background but they would object if he marries a Muslim girl of a different school of Islamic thought (Shiah/Sunni) or different tribe like Punjabi, Sunni, Pathan, Arab vs. non-Arab, Afro-American vs. immigrant, or different class, Syed vs. non-Syed. Both the parents and the body should be reminded that the criteria for choosing a spouse that was given by the Prophet Muhammad was not wealth nor color but Islamic piety.

She may have been told that early marriage, that is, age 18 or less, is taboo and that she should wait until the age of 23 or 25. According to statistics, 80% of American girls, while waiting to get settled in life and married, engage freely in sex with multiple boyfriends. However, this option is not available to Muslim girls. Every year nearly one million teenage girls in this country who think that they are not ready for marriage, get pregnant. By the age of 24 when a Muslim girl decides that she is ready for marriage, it may be too large for her. If she reviews the matrimonial ad section in Islamic magazines, she will quickly notice that the boys of the age group of 25 to 30 are looking for girls from 18 to 20 year age group. They may wrongfully assume that an older girl may not be a virgin.

She may also carry a wrong notion not proven scientifically that marrying healthy cousins may cause congenital deformities in her offspring.

Thus, unless these issues are addressed, many Muslim girls in the US may end up marrying a non-Muslim or remain unmarried.

Curriculum for Islamic Sex Education

Islamic sex education should be taught at home starting at an early age. Before giving education about anatomy and physiology, the belief in the Creator should be well established. As Dostoevsky put it, "Without God, everything is possible," meaning that the lack of belief or awareness of God gives an OK for wrongdoing.

A father should teach his son and a mother should teach her daughter. In the absence of a willing parent, the next best choice should be a Muslim male teacher (preferably a physician) for boys and a Muslim female teacher (preferably a physician) for a girl at the Islamic Sunday school.

The curriculum should be tailored according to age of the child and classes be held separately. Only pertinent answers to a question should be given. By this I mean that if a five year old asks how he or she got into mommie's stomach, there is no need to describe the whole act of intercourse. Similarly it is not necessary to tell a fourteen year old how to put on condoms. This might be taught in premarital class just before his or her marriage. A curriculum for sex ed should Include:

a. Sexual growth and development
* Time table for puberty
* Physical changes during puberty
* Need for family life

b. Physiology of reproductive system
* For girls- the organ, menstruation, premenstrual syndrome
* For boys- the organ, the sex drive

c. Conception, development of fetus and birth

d. Sexually transmitted disease (VD/AIDS) (emphasize the Islamic aspect)

e. Mental, emotional and social aspects of puberty

f. Social, moral and religious ethics

g. How to avoid peer pressure

Sex education after marriage

This essay is not intended to be a sex manual for married couples, although I may write such someday. I just wanted to remind the reader of a short verse in the Quran and then elaborate. The verse is, "They are your garments, and you are their garments" (Quran 2:187).

Husbands and wives are described as garments for each other. A garment is very close to our body, so they should be close to each other. A garment protects and shields our modesty, so they should do the same to each other. Garments are put on anytime we like, so should they be available to each other anytime. A garment adds to our beauty, so they should praise and beautify each other.

For husbands I should say that sex is an expression of love and one without the other is incomplete. One of your jobs is to educate your wife in matters of sex especially in your likes and dislikes and do not compare her to other women.

For wives I want to say that a man's sexual needs are different than a women's. Instead of being a passive recipient of sex, try to be an active partner. He is exposed to many temptations outside the home. Be available to please him and do not give him a reason to make a choice between you and hellfire.

Source: Islam-USA

This from the first chapter of the book: Sex Education: An Islamic Perspective (Edited by Shahid Athar , M.D.)


  Category: Americas, Featured, Life & Society
  Topics: Children, Parents, Sex  Values: Education
Views: 167052

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Older Comments:
JABED said:
Thanks for this helpful post.
2019-05-04

MOHAMMED JAMIU FROM NIGERIA said:
Its really interesting and educating and i highly recommend it for my fellow muslim brothers and sisters.Assalamu alaikum.
2010-03-26

ISA FROM USA said:
Muslim women shouldn't marry at age 18 if they don't chose to. It is very wrong of you to suggest such a thing. At 18 girls are barely done with high school. We need to be educated,and have funds of our own. I for one do not want anyone taking care of me, I am capable of doing it myself. I think marriage at young age is immature. Plese don't even tell us that at age of 18 a child should know what they want with their life. And if males assume that we are not virgins--that is their problem,and problem of their parents. Islam gives us choice, and one of those is to marry when we are ready!
2004-06-28

MRS BAKRI FROM MALAYSIA said:
thank for this article, but i dare not. i feel shy. i only give my daughter advice, eg pls dont let boys touch your body and dont let the brothers and father or relatives (man) touch your private part.
2004-04-23

DR. ANAS ABDUNOOR KALIISA FROM UGANDA said:
This is my lost item I have been looking for such materials for so long, but now alhamudulilh
please send me more I am in the fiel of poplation and Iam supporsed to present the Views of Islam on Adolescence sexual and reproduction health. Jazakumllahu Khairan
2004-02-09

FREEDOM FROM BELIZE said:
The solutions presented by the author of this article can be summed up as following: imposing total tyranny on teens. The author has severe dictatorial tendencies, and abuses religion to camouflage and further spread his disturbed notion of a righteous living. This should first of all be based on freedom. Teens must learn the ways of life on their own, trough bad luck and good luck. Teens may not be restricted from life by crazy rules as proposed by this wacky author.
2004-01-30

MOHAMMAD KHALID FROM INDIA said:
The Article is very informative about the sex behaviour in Islam.

Here is my one question that is the oral sex is permitted in Islam?
Please reply as soon as possible.
Thank You
2004-01-30

RAYHE FROM UNITED STATES said:
This article was interesting to me. I am a Christian who has grown up in a conservative Christian family here in the U.S. Over the past few years I have become increasingly interested in Islan and its beliefs. I was referred to this website to learn more. As I read this article I realized how similar my values are to those of muslims. I agree that the way many teenagers and college students behave is wrong and parents need to take a stand. After observing a sex ed class this year I do believe that more needs to be done. Although the teacher did stress abstenance he stressed it only for health reasons and I believe there are so many other reasons that students should not have sex. I really enjoyed reading this article and learning about the morality of Muslims.
2004-01-05

WAHAB HAMEED FROM PAKISTAN said:
Just read the Hadees (Saying of the Prophet) again and thoroughly this time:

"Blessed are the women of the Helpers. Their modesty did not stand in the way of their seeking knowledge about their religion" (Saying of the Prophet - Bukhari and Muslim).

And notice the words "Knowledge about their RELIGION".

Here those women are being blessed who are not shy to seeking knowledge about their religion... in other words Islam... and no sex education is mentioned here.

So, please don't try to misguide us.

Phew
2004-01-05

HABEEB FROM GUYANA said:
Thanks for the Stats. Sex Ed shouldn't be taboo as Isl Ed has already beeb doing it with Tahaara and Nikah subjects. However a scientific and consistent approach is needed. Isl Schools should start it and Parents should be ready to be parented on this topic. The voice reading wasn't compatible tot eh written word. Please correct.
See our site for Sex topics with a moral slant.
http://www.hujja.org/forum/board.php?FID=9
2004-01-03

KIAMBU ABDUL-MALIK AKHDARR FROM USA [NYC] said:
Asalaamu-Alaikum. A very capivating article,it kept me enthralled and wanting more but it ended too abruptly for me but a great article all the same. Although,Im a Musician [guitarist]Im in full agreement that music of today is too sexually alluring and perverse particularly in Rock [Rap is a concept masquraiding as music. It has no singing,no instrumentation,therefore it isnt music] Rock is one of the greatest musical forms ever to be created but unfortunately not only immoral sex uses it as a base of operation but so does drugs and other intoxicants. I love the music but not what is infested in the music. All of these things influences the kids of today in leaning more towards early pre-marital sexual involvement and early intoxication experiences.
2004-01-02

KASHIF FROM USA said:
The article is probably rooted in practicality of living in a western society and the information age in general. Sex education rooted with morality discussions with kids is, im my humble opinion, the only way to handle this.

Every child has a different psychology. Some can better control themselves and some are more prone to give in to temptation. It is the parents responsibility to ensure that they help their children when they are most vulnerable.

Early engagements or marriages are defnite options. While married, we should also educate our young couples about focusing on acquiring higher education and not having kids until they have finished their education and can support their family.
2004-01-02

HAGER YOUSSEF FROM I LIVE IN THE USA BUT WAS BORN IN EGYPT said:
I was attracted to Islam because of it's openess and ability to discuss everything and talk about anything. It's about time someone talked about sex to us young people. or at least has acknowledged that Islam can handel the sex talk.
2003-12-29

MARUF FROM NIGERIA said:
Salam

I disagree with the opinion because this is an agenda that exposes children to sex and eventually enter their heads. Beecause they are explores.

Secondly, the teacher in these cartegory are uncultured. Allah in his word thought those aspect of our life in a cultured manner, dotto the prophet.(SAW)eg Q5 : 6 Allah use the word "Lamastum" to indicate intercourse which I belief is cultured manner.

With these and others I belief it is wrong to introduce to them at the early age untill puberty. still at that time all protocols must be observerved.

Masalam
2003-12-29

HANBALI EBRAHEEM FROM NIGERIA said:
assalamu alaikum.
iam totally against it b'cos u did'nt support it with relevant verse from the holy qur'an or any book of sunna,and dont forget that our enemies are
always at our door step in case there is any chance.so we better watch what we are doing or saying.
alhamdulillah.
2003-12-28

DELINA FROM INDONESIA said:
Thank you for the article. It's not easy finding topic on sex in Islamic bulletin.
2003-12-25

INDIVIDUAL FROM USA said:
Assalamu-Alaikum,
I'm impressed that you have posted this topic about sex, which is one of the most important issues in our lives to be discussed. I thnak you for opening this discussion where we can express our feeling and ask questions about it. There's one question that confuses me and is unclear to me, where you do not really explain nor give reference to in exact words or quote exactly from Qur'an. You mention in the text where I quote, "God Who cares for all the aspects of our life, and not just the way of worshipping Him, discusses reproduction, creation, family life, menstruation and even ejaculation in the Quran." (Sex Education: An Islamic Perspective) Can you specifically tell me where does it describe in Qur'an. What Surah and Ayah is it mentioned? I'd appreciate any answers. Thank you
2003-12-21

ABDULHAKEEM FROM NIGERIA said:
the article is very interesting just that it is too volumnious.
2003-12-21

SANUSI ABDULKABIRU FROM NIGERIA said:
I just want to surgest that ths article sould be publishein a news paperto let other Muslim beneft on it
on my own personal i need Hajiah
2003-12-20

AMINA MOHAMED FROM USA said:
It sounds like the author is saying Muslim gilrs MUST get married at an early age or else they will not find any Muslim Boys to marry them. Why is that the pressure and burden is always on the girls / women and not the boys/men? That does not sound fair ??
2003-12-15

ABDUL RASAK ADEROJU FROM NIGERIA said:
i am very happy about the topic , we should enconrage sex education at home and at school,parent should try and enconrage their children to aford sex before marriage.
2003-12-14

HYAT FROM CANADA said:
I believe this issue like many other important issues is a big battle for us Muslims and non-Muslims alike. The recipes are bad for us as a human race, but what can we do? As stated in the article, on TV where about 20,000 sexual scenes are broadcasted in advertisement, soap operas, prime time shows and MTV. The hard core rock music nowadays friends, teachers; all immorally correct and the parents are over protecting and unreasonable. On a daily bases are we as parents are told that we're old fashioned we just want to make them (the kids) miserable. How come my friend's mom doesn't say anything to her son/daughter about listing to this kind of music or the type of movie they can watch? You see where I'm coming from; parents are not in a good position to teach their children right from wrong moral from immoral because society and the laws are against us.
By this I mean your son/daughter comes home from school and tells you about sex ed that she learned today, "my teacher said that we can get free condoms from the school washroom" and anywhere when we going to have sex to protect ourselves". If you as a parent explain to the child the morals that it is better to not to have sex at your age think of all the diseases that people get from having sex. That child is going to laugh in your face. Unless the schools are made to teach sex Ed properly, and the government bans all those sex ads and commercials both on TV and radio these thousands of teenage pregnancies and wide spread of all disease.
As Muslims we try to teach our children but look how much time a child spends with the parent compared to school, to listing to the radio, to watching TV and to the influence of their peers. It is a mighty job which needs a lot of help and assistance to be successful
2003-12-14

AALEEN FROM PAKISTAN said:
Its a beautiful article..ive never read something so informative and written in such a healthy manner..most religious articles i read nowadays..i so rigid and contain lack of perspective and biased,this article was definately a breath of fresh air
2003-12-14

ABDUR RAZZAQ FROM USA said:
Esther... the scourge of AIDS is occuring everywhere. However, in Asia, the spread is rapid in China, Vietnam, and other non-Muslim SE Asian countries. Likewise, the alarming number of AIDS cases in Africa come predominantly from countries like South Africa, Botswana, Mozambique, Angola, and other non-Muslim countries. I am not saying the lands of Islam are free from this epidemic, but the rate of growth is spurred by the strict moral code enforced by either the individual commitment to Islam, the cultural heritage, or government.
2003-12-13

NURAINI FROM MALAYSIA said:
to Mr. Confused.

1. not true. but there are restrictions on their interactions.

2. not true. the husband does not have to be chosen by the parents. after all, Prophet Muhammad's wife chose him. :)

3. it is legal, and perfectly all right.

4. it is not wrong.

5. not necessarily a disaster, but yes, it could be disastrous. muslims are encouraged to at least see the person they are marrying before the marriage.

6. engagement is an intention to marry the girl, declared to everyone, so that it is clear that the girl is taken. this means that it is dishonourable for another man to woo her. it is encouraged, however, that the engagement period is not a lengthy one.

7. it depends. again, it's better for the girl to know the man she is marrying. if the arranged person actually meets her BEFORE the marriage, he could be better, or not. if they marry without her knowing him at all, that is gravely discouraged.

8. Her and her husband's expectation. a woman's husband is her choice alone. She can be married by her parents, but only by her consent. therefore, her expectation is of greater importance than her parents' expectation. after marriage, her loyalty is to her husband first. therefore, her husband's expectation is also of greater importance than her parents' expectation.
2003-12-12

KHALOUDY5 FROM USA said:
i appreciate the discussion of such sensitive topic . this article is a great example of decent knowledge about sexual concepts without any offense to any reader. i will really appreciate if you list hadith for prophet mohammed peace be upon him concerning marriage and sexual life between couple.thank you for your useful information since such article will give me the material, knowledge, communication style i need to share such infirmation with friends and family about the right sexual education for our children
al salam alikum wa rahmatou allah
2003-12-11

HABIBAH FROM USA said:
As salaamu alaikum wa rahmahtullah wa barakatuh,
I really appreciated this article, but I also have certain questions that remain. I am a revert and a lot of the information in the latter part of the article seemed to be aimed towards people who have been muslim all of their lives. The questions that I have, being that I am a revert American woman, how do we put this into perspective when choosing a mate? There are a lot of obstacles that we face in this area. Some of us have reached an age that many men it seem consider undesirable to marry. So what are our options?
Jazakallah Khair for this information,
Habibah
2003-12-11

HUSSAIN MUHAMMAD FROM USA said:
I feel that we Muslims MUST !!! address the issue of our sexual nature. How do we teach our children to hold on until marraige in a world that does not hold such behavior as important?

We are being phony and unresponsible by pretending that sexual desires among ourdeveloping youth is not present. WE are wrong, by pontificating over them like we are above needing human intimacy...we are wrong to dictate morality to them when it is difficult to do it our selves...

But, sadly...I don't know what the solution is...How do we be proud loving Muslims, and Moral decent Muslims...that honestly retain their morals? Actually, Allah is correct by urging us to be moral, and responsible.
But this society is not yet structured for such ideal...it will come though. but in the meantime we must seriously talk about this very important issue...from this point onward this issue and concern will get stronger...until we find a solution....As-Salaam Alaikum
2003-12-11

SHAHNAZ FROM CANADA said:
brother, assalamu alikum.
i appriciate you. you wrote such a nice artical about sex ed. this year my son has this programme. i was thinking , i will whether put him in this programme or not. i was confused. May Allah bless you. your islamic sister
2003-12-11

LIGHTUPONLIGHT.COM FROM CANADA said:
I very much like this article.
We have some videos on a similar topic on our site http://www.lightuponlight.com/
2003-12-11

ANONYMOUS said:
i'll get straight to the heart of the matter.though i agree with most of the points, the fact that the whole procedure is termed 'sex education' results in projecting a totally different image.things like puberty etc. do not need to be explained.believe me, i had no one to explain them to me but my curiosity diminished after a while and eventually learnt about them in my bio class.using the term 'sex education' immdetiately makes an individual think of sex, and this is especially dangerous when using around kids as they'd be quick to relate puberty with sex and wrongly conclude that this means its time to do 'it'.as far as the islamic perspective goes, its common sense! who doesnt know that sex outside marriage is haram and the likes.you dont have to damage a child's innocence just because s/he has reached the age of puberty!
2003-12-10

ANEESA FROM SOUTH AFRICA said:
Dear Mr Confused:

Let me try to answer as honestly as I can

1. Yes.

2. No. If she's suitably impressed by some Muslim dude, she's more than welcome to tell her parents about her desire to marry him. In fact, a couple of women in my community who come from really pious families proposed (with the aid of their parents) to their husbands.

3. If you mean that once she's married she finds the boy of her dreams, then I don't think so. If she was forced into marriage I think that she has the right to seek a divorce. but in any case she can divorce her husband if she finds him offensive or disagreeable e.g. tyrannical, oppressive, unaffectionate, doesn't fulfill her sexual needs etc.

4. No. Cos in any case, we're living in a world where kids,especially guys aren't interested in just a peck on the lips.

5. Of course, that's why she has the right to meet him and to find out if there's some kind of chemistry between them and if they have stuff in common with each other.

6. I don't know. Probably the same as "engagement" from a non-muslim perspective. But it's a period usually in which the couple further get to know each other. It's important that the couple become friends during the engagement so that there is affection and familiarity between the two.

7. Neither. What's semi-pious? A Muslim should just try to be as sincere in his/her intentions and religious observances as possible. None of us are perfect and can easily sin. But it's better that one always marry another who is of the same spiritual class.

8. Definitely her own. She's marrying the dude, NOT her parents. But it's good for parents to know that their daughter is in safe and loving hands. As,long as your parents don't pressure you to marry for a guy's bank account, race, ethnicity or looks you should seek their wisdom but if you're marrying this guy because of his great character etc, chat to your parents and seek God's guidance.

Hope you're UN-confused.
2003-12-10

ANEESA FROM SOUTH AFRICA said:
Dear Esther

There is nothing ironic about the growth of Aids her in Africa. People in Africa have as much or less sex as Europeans or Americans.Also not all people are religious in Africa and Asia. Some African cultures here in Africa condone sex outside marriage.

The difference between the African world (for example) and Europe is that there is a lack of resources and educational tools to teach people about Aids and the benefits of abstaining from pre-marital sex. Also many uninformed poeple still have certain myths concerning Aids and sex: Example 1: You can cure yourself of HIV or Aids if you sleep with a virgin, etc.

You and I kow that's nuts but many ill-informed African living in impoverished rural areas with no access to education don't.

2003-12-10

FAZAL KHAN FROM US said:
The article is very well written and I have decided to answer some questions posted by Mr. confused.
1. There is nothing against liking a girl or a guy
but there are limits to that relationship.
2. no, it is not true. Muslim girls can choose
their husbands, it is done through elders because
they are wise and experienced.
3.no, that marriage is not illegal actually that's
a true Islamic marriage.

You are mixing up culture with religion, it is unfortunate some people give more importance to
the culture than religion.
There is a lot literature available regarding this matter. Go to some Islamic bookstore and
you will find answers to your questions.
2003-12-10

AKBAR KHAN FROM CANADA said:
Peace be upon you Confused one.

I'll be happy to answer your very good questions...

1) YES
2) NO, a Muslimah (Muslim woman) can choose/decide who she would like to marry. Parents can offer suggestions to her, but in the end, she has the final say....on the flip side, so does a Muslim man have the final say, neither can be forced/coerced into marriage. If they are, the marriage is considered invalid.

3) No...there is nothing wrong for a Muslim girl liking a Muslim boy as long as, like you have said, informs her parents of this. In such a circumstance, it would be better if intermediaries were used to bring the two together, such as relatives of the Muslim man and woman...but when they formally meet each other and the families are also present, they may speak with each other and ask each other questions and have the right to know specific things about a person. A conversation can continue as long as they follow rules of Islamic modesty (in action, and intent).


4)It is recommended that if a Muslim man and woman are willing to be together, then there should be nothing stopping them from joining in wedlock, or else what is stopping them from deciding to get married if they are into each other? Regardless of if they indulge in sexual relations or "fooling around" like you said, they shoul refrain from being alone with each and being with each other until they decide to get married, or else, as human nature presents itself, they will constantly have urges to commit sinful acts which could easily be acceptable if they married each other, don't you think? Marriage is a beautiful thing...adultery is wrong in Christianity and Judaism as well...it's not that strange if Islam says no, what do you think?
2003-12-10

ADAMU IBRAHIM MUHAMMAD FROM NIGERIA. said:
I'm sorry, but I read this article twice without seeing a single hujjah either from the Qur'an or the Sunnah to support the author's argument for the new INNOVATION, of Sex Education for Children.

I can understand sex ed for adults, but for CHILDREN? Any attempt to justify this is to say that somebody in this century has seen something that the Prophet or the Sahabas, even those 1st Generation that follow the Sahabas have not seen in this beautiful religion of ours. I'm sorry to say that this is unacceptable to Islam and according to one of the Prophet's tradition reported by Aisha(Mother of the Believers) it should be REJECTED.
2003-12-10

AKM EMDAD ULLAH FROM BANGLADESH said:
THIS IS TRUE THAT NATURE IS GUIDED BY ALMIGHTY ALLAH. HE IS LOOKING AFTER ALL HIS NATURE. IN SEX,IT IS ALSO A NATURAL BEHAVIOR, NO NEED TO TEACH CHILDREN ABOUT SEX. IN EXCEPTIONL CASE RELATED PERSON CAN GO TO HIS DOCTOR FOR THEIR OWN PROBLEMS. ANIMAL HAS SEX ACTIVATION ALSO. BUT WHO IS TEACHING THEM FOR THEIR SEXTUAL LIFE? NO DOUBT, IN DIFFERENT CASE SOME PEOPLE MAY NEED TO EARN SEX EDUCATION. BUT IT IS NO NEED FOR ALL.
2003-12-10

FATHIMA ALI FROM CANADA said:
I like to help Mr confused with his question, but I do not know how to respond to him. If you, MR Confused happend to read this, please go to the same sight where you found this article and choose the next page(2) at the bottom, you will then come across related articles.
2003-12-10

FATHIMA ALI FROM CANADA said:
This article about sex education is very well written. It is important that the author relates sex education to non muslims behaviour and reasons out. As all of us muslims living in the northern part of America/ in nonmuslim suroundings, our children of muslim parents are very much influenced by there school mates and are also pressured to be like them and to do everything their friends do, becouse of this reason yes!!! Sex education and the Islamic point of view should be discussed by all the muslim parents to their children and let their children know how sinful it is in Islam to engage in this act before marriage.
2003-12-10

MR. CONFUSED FROM CONNN....FFFF....UUUS...EEED said:
Hi,
Although the article if very well written, I have a few important questions. I will be happy if anyone answer my questions. Pardon my ignorance of Islamic marriage/girlfried/boyfriend matters and the following neophytic questions....The questions are ---

1. IS IT TRUE that Muslims can't have boyfriends or girlfriends?

2. Is it true that Muslim women should be engaged by their parents, meaning the husband gotta be chosen by her parents?

3. Should the marriage be considered illegal or unIslamic if a Muslim girl likes a Muslim boy and THEN tell her parents that she wants marry the boy of his dream?

4. Is it wrong/unacceptable/unIslamic for a Muslim boy to have a Muslim girlfriend even if they don't have sex at all or fool around (partying every weekends and going out etc too much)?

5. wouldn't it be a diaster if a Muslim girl is being engaged without her even meeting the guy?

6. What is "engagement" from a Muslim perspective?

7. What is better for a Muslim girl....having a semi-pious/trusworthy Muslim guy (the prospective husband)....or completely unknown stranger blindly arranged by her parents?

8. Should Muslim women fullfill their parent's expectation regarding the husband or should she fullfill her and her husband's expectation?

I look forward to hearing from you. No offense if detected in the questions by anyone.

Thank you.
Mr. Confused


2003-12-09

AMJED FROM USA said:
Very enlighteniing piece about the importance of sex education in our daily lives. Sex is not a topic that should be tabooed but discussed openly and honestly to combat the abuses that are so prevalent today and provide the right Islamic concepts that can preserve the sanctity of this ritual. The only safe sex that can ever exist is probably through marriage not only for the health of the individual but for the greater community. At times, sex education in America can be downright pornographic and condoning. Instead of rebuking premarital sex and illicit relationships outright, we are too often wasting money on curtailing the problem when we could, in fact, nip it in the bud. At a literacy program, where I worked in Harlem, health agencies would give away colorful condoms, some specially designed for oral sex, that would actually entice students to continue their sex practices rather than seeing the wrong in it. In that sense, religion can do a much better job in addressing the major health crises that are so common today. Otherwise, we might as well pour our money down the drain.
2003-12-09

ESTHER FROM USA said:
I think that sex outside of marrige is wrong. The ironic thing is that Aids is spreading through Africa and Asia (and these are suppose to be real religious countries).
2003-12-09

ANSAR SARFRAZ YOUNUS FROM INDIA said:
nice but tell u one thing sex (as point out to be an important issue) in ur islamic toppic,AND COMPARING THE SEXUAL HABIT OF AMERICANS AND THE NON BELIVERS,DONT"D SENCE MUCH ---AS BECAUSE U BEING A MUSLIMS HOW CAN CALCULATE THE BELIVES THE HABBIT(OF SEX ) OF THE MUSLIM AND THE AMERICAN .THERE IS ONE THING THAT SLIPPED OUT OF UR MIND ---THE AMERICANS HAVE EVERY THING ARRENGED(THERE COUNTRY HAVE BILLIONS OF DOLLORS ,ALMOST EVERY ONEHAS A NICE LIFE ) WHILE WHAT THEY DID TO MUSLIM COUNTRY IS IN FRONT OF UR EYES.AND YES I DON"T KNOW HOW CAN SEX BE SUCH A BROADER ISSUE FOR A MUSLIM(FOR EVERY MUSLIM)AS BECAUSE ALLAH IN QURAN HAVE EVERY THING EXPLAINED NO CLEARLY ABOUT SEX THERE.AND SEE FOR A MUSLIM U(US)MUST TAKE EVERY THING AS KNOWLEDGE (EVEN SEX) AND SEX NEED NOT MUCH UNDERSTANDING(IT"S ANOTHER CASE THAT THE NON BELIVERS NEED "SEX EDUCATION" FOR THAT).AND ITMUST NOT MATTER 2 A MUSLIM THAT--HOW MANY BOYS A AMERICAN GIRL WANT TO SLEEP,OR WHAT KIND OF PARTY MUST A AMERICAN BOY MAY ARRANGE AFTER HE SLEPT WITH100OF GIRLS. U MUST UNDERSTAND THAT---"WHY U R LOOKING FOR ALL THE WORSE THEY ARE DOING,WHY THEY R NOT LOOKING OR CONCENTRETE THE GOOD THINGS (IN ANY PHASE OF LIFE) THAT A MUSLIM IS DOING.SO THE MUSLIMS MUST ROSE THEMSELF AND THERE DEEDS SO HIGH THAT THE NON BELIVER MUST TAKE AN EXAMPLE 4M US.ALL THIS I WROTE AS BECAUSE SEX IS FOR PLEASURE,AND THE MATTER OF FACT THE NON BELIVER HAS HAVE EVERY OTHER PHASES OF LIFE FULFILLED TO ENOJOY IT BUT FOR A MUSLIM IT"S STILL ENOUGH IF HE COULD FREELY SAY TO SOME BODY THAT HE IS A MUSLIM .AND PLZ DO NOT COMPARE WHAT THEY DO ,U MUST CONCENTERATE WHAT ALLAH HAS ORDER U.AS BECAUSE SILLY MATTER LIKE SEX DOSEN"T MATTER FOR A TRUE MUSLIM MAN AND WOMEN(AS BECAUSE ALLAH HAS MADE EVERYTHING SO CLEAR IN THE CHAPTER OF QURAN) ---DISCUSSION ABOUT SEX IS GOOD BUT 4M UR SPEECH SEEMS THAT 4 U "IT"S LIFE AND TRUTH "BE REAL.
2003-12-09

M.B said:
I believe it is much more important to live an excellent Islamic-family life, and let your children learn at a very early age that the private male/female relationship is what Allah has allow only under marriage. There is a lot to be said about seperation of the sexes at a pre-teen age and beyond. Children should be reminded at engagements and weddings that this is the accepted way of entering into a very important and natural cycle of life and that when the time comes for more questions and answers they will inshallah feel safe in asking because they know it is not a "bad thing" between married people and that anything close that type of relationship should be guarded against until after the wedding. Knowing that this is what is better for them in this short life and for the "everafter" will ishallah help with all the pressures and problems of living in this world. I strongly believe that if we care about them, we should try to spend as much time with them and show them how to apply Islam to our every day lives and not have the culture of modern life play parent and friend to our futures. How can we not see the problems of living in such a "rat-race" life, to get as many "things" as we can afford while losing sight of the most important treasures and trusts we have been give?
2003-12-09

FAROOK FROM USA said:
You don't need to post what you are reading into the system.
Br. Ahmed Assad,s book on Guarding Chastity printed with WAMY's help is a better guide than your article.
We have 2 children in PD whom we have OPTED OUT on any topics related to sex.
The Quran and Hadith is our guide.
Many Muslim parents are ignorant and non-practising. How can you expect children to learn from such households.
We have lost a large proportion of our youth.
These are SINFUL situations where both parents and teens are going to be held accountable.
Believing Muslims will send the kids to Islamic schools-as your deen will count more than your worldy conquest.
Look into the flaws of our community. Where are the teens at Friday prayers, what are parents doing in their own houses.
I see drug use, fornication, and teens never seeing a mosque in our own society.
The answer is increase youe deen.
STOP critising the west. Their flaws are great and a curse from Allah.
We need to fix ourselves first.
Farook
2003-12-09

R FROM USA said:
This is an important subject and Islamicity's articles are usually insightful and thought-provoking. THank you for taking on this issue. However, I was dismayed to see an article take the stand that Cyndi Lauper is the pornographic cause for the corruption of our youth (??!) All teen moms are child abusers?? (!??) Information about sex leads to promiscuity (!!??)

I would like to encourage the author to take a tone that is better-informed and more respectful toward the culture and society we are a part of - rather than one that is exaggerated, alarmist, or accusatory.

Young people need clear and accurate information about their bodies, sex (physical, emotional, and moral aspects), childbearing, as well as pregnancy and STI prevention. This is a sunna.

Especially because HIV/AIDS is spreading most quickly now among our youth, they need frank and respectful education on these subjects. Demonizing "Madonna" or "teen mothers" won't save their lives.

But thank you again for bringing up this important issue.

Salams
2003-12-08

MUSLIM GIRL FROM US said:
I agree with the article. It has valid points but one thing I would like to say is that may be our parents do not feel comfortable talking to us about this issue. However, I think more and more muslim children, teenagers and adults need to read this article. As I have observed that more muslims are involved in these interactions openly without any shame or fear of god and respect for our religious beliefs.
However, we still need to implement these ideas in our kids' minds at an early age so they know the right from wrong when they grow up. This way they might not feel the importance of physical interaction with the opposite sex before marriage
2003-12-08

AMINA RATHUR FROM USA said:
your article should be an eye opener for the muslim community because a lot of parents are confused about the whole issue.
My concern is that what age is more appropriate for ur child to have this Knowledge?
I have a 10yr old girl and a 9 yr old boy, they do have an idea about Sex but they are not fully aware of the whole thing.
I have a restricted atmosphere of watching tv programmes and western music is totally out.Music is basically discouraged and they respect the Q why?
2003-12-08

KHUSHBOO FROM CANADA said:
It is a great article, I wish we could have this kind of more education for our children who live in this society and is hard for them to keep up Islamin law.
2003-12-08

SOFIA FROM USA said:
I'm sorry, but I couldn't bring myself to finish reading this article. Please check your "facts" before asserting them as truths. Soon there will be condom vending machines in school hallways? Are you joking? I attended public American schools for 13 years -- 17, if you count my public university -- and I have never heard of something like that. Also, please enlighten us as to the identity of the "educator" who condones mutual masturbation between young children.

Also, not "every American school" gives sex education! Please be wary of making such sweeping generalizations. (Some schools in the South don't even teach about evolution - I doubt that sex is considered a more palatable issue.)

Also, one is NOT at a higher risk for cervical cancer simply by having multiple sexual partners. One MAY be at a higher risk for the disease if one contracts SEXUALLY TRANSMITTED INFECTIONS. The SAFETY LEVEL of one's sexual activities is the issue here (ie the use of condoms, etc.) - not the NUMBER of one's sexual partners.

Also, one's sex organs are pretty much developed by the end of puberty; have we forgotten the days of our great-grandparents, when women got married soon after their first menstrual period?

Please, please practice more responsible journalism.
2003-12-08

AHMED FROM LONDON, UK said:
sorry spelling mistake on article i posted few mins ago. i've posted two articles seperately cos of lack of space. the second article, last word says "depths" it should read "depth" can you please amend it. thanks
2003-12-08

AHMED FROM LONDON, UK said:
If the community's view of the relationship between men and woman is focused on the male-female relations, i.e. the sexual relations, as is the case in Western society, then it will be preoccupied with creating exciting realities and generating sexual thoughts necessary to excite the procreation instinct, so as to require satisfaction. As a result we see what we see today in society. Sadly many Muslim countries have also adopted this view.

Contrary to this, if the view of the community to the relationship between man and woman is focused on the purpose for which this instinct was created, namely preserving the human race, then keeping the realities and sexual thoughts away from men and woman in public life is a necessity. This is the Islamic viewpoint, where marriage is encouraged and man and women are focused and considered as being companions and not sexual partners.

The purpose of its existence is to produce offspring for the survival of the species. Therefore, mankind's view of this instinct must be oriented towards the purpose for which it is found in him, and that undoubtedly, is for the survival of the species without distinction between men or women.

Allowing this instinct to run loose is detrimental to mankind and his social life. Islam came to govern man's behaviour. Therefore I encourage anyone Muslim or non-Muslim to study the social system of Islam, I am sure we'll appreciate its depths.


2003-12-08

AHMED FROM LONDON, UK said:
Good article, just like to add few more pointers. There is no doubt sex and drugs as well as their end-products are on all time high because of rigid narrow mindedness and decline in society. A recent study shows that the average person in Britain and other parts of the western world think about sex every few seconds. It's hardly surprising considering the amount of articles about sex the media portrays and bombards on the minds of individuals. I think this clearly puts things into perspective. As a result Muslims in the west are somewhat confused, taking from western society without understanding it and without being aware of its reality, or knowing the contradiction that exists between it and the Islamic culture; all of this is due to a failure in studying Islam intellectually and not understanding the Islamic social system.

Islam made procreation instinct the subject matter and not sex as many may think. Sex is nothing more than a natural and integral part of this instinct. It is a pleasurable attraction and Allah has put it there for a purpose so that man can attract the opposite sex and vice versa.

Islam defines the procreation instinct very clearly for us. The objective of this instinct is to ensure the continuity of the human race anything else is considered natural and integral occurrences of the process to ensure this objective is met. Sex happens to be one of these integral parts. Without sex, love etc. a person would not have this attraction towards the opposite sex and therefore not procreate if they deemed it not pleasurable. Let's admit people wouldn't come together in their meeting if it wasn't interesting and pleasurable.
2003-12-08

ZAHRA FROM CANADA said:
Salaam Alaikum

I am very pleased with this article! I have already educated my children in the Islamic methods mentioned and I feel it is the best and safest way to do so. Alhamdulillah!
2003-12-08

ABDULLAH JIBIYA FROM NIGERIA said:
I cannot agree more with your opinion on this matter. Indeed, one of the most important aspects of our religion - and often the neglected - is the emphasis our Prophet has placed on it as "an ideology", a way of seeing the world, and of conceptualizing social phenomena. It therefore follows that whatever opposes that "methodology", in the same way as Talcot Parson's methodology is inherently capitalist and Lenins's communist, departs from the Islamic. Both the Qu'ran and the sunnah of our Propher (SAW) show clearly that sex education is not only halal but a necessity. What is significant here is not the word or the images associated with it but how Islam views it, what are the guiding principles before engaging in it, in other words, what is the halal and the haram regarding it. Once we are able to make ourselves and our children appreciate that we must not engage in anything unless we know Allah's verdict on it, then we are safe.
May Allah reward you abundantly.
2003-12-08

SUMAIR FROM NETHERLANDS said:
A bold attempt at breaking the barriers and clarifying where does the religion stands on this sensitive yet increasingly critical issue. Given the scio economic realities of today and social/cultural backgrounds of various Muslims, I still fail to come to any conclusion as to what is or should be the right age of marriage. I am still searching for an answer.
2003-12-08

SAREER ARA FROM TANZANIA said:
Excellent article. We need more articles like this. Not only in America, muslim parents all over the world need help in educating their children about sexual health especially in view of the growing prevelance of HIV/AIDS and other sexually transmitted diseases. In some cities of America and Europe the muslims are previledged to have access to sunday islamic schools, where proper islamic education is being provided. A bigger problem is being faced by parents in many countries in South Asia & Africa where the islamic teaching to children has been left mosques and madrassahs, where the imams/maulvis teach islam with cultural, socail and societal biasis. Sex education is taboo in such institutions and households. Most of the conventional schools do not have sex education as a subject.In these situations most children and youth are left to learn about sex through peers. The information gathered is usually incorrect and erroneus.
The writers are requested to give us more articles on the same topic which can be used to educate the whole community. The quotes from Quran and hadiths are specially useful. Thank you
2003-12-08

DOCTOR GIF FROM USA said:
I wish the author brought out 1) the concept of " Islamic way of life" compared to " Western way of life" 2) A guidance for those muslims who have already indulged in illegal sex activities, recommending maghfira from Ar-rahmanur-Raheem and correcting themselves and 3)the concept of morals in true christian and judaism religion which are similar to Islamic way of life. This will give our children a background to confront with their peers.
2003-12-08

YEKTA FROM US said:
Sx education is like any other education but it is most sensitive. Should be done right. Otherwise would be harmful to. It should be tought very carefully.
Islamic values are about family and enjoyment also.
2003-12-08

IMAN FROM QATAR said:
Salam Alaykum,

A great article and I thought I should send it to my son 19 year old studying in England,I hope that it won't upset him...Thanks
2003-12-08

MOHAMMED ASLAM FROM USA said:
Muslim parents should shed their inhibition, which is often a cultural baggage, in imparting the sex education to their children. These inhibitions can be shed with practice.

Some useful books:
1. Sex Education: An Islamic Perspective, Edited by Dr. Shahid Athar , Kazi
2. Parents manual: A Guide for Muslim Parents living in North America, by Womens Committee, MSA of US & Canada, American Trust publishers
3. Raising Children According to the Quran and Sunnah by Faramarz bin Muhammar Rahbar, Abul Qasim publishing
4. Matrimonial Education in Islam by Ahmad H Sakr y Foundation for Islamic Knowledge, USA
5. The Muslim Marriage Guide by Ruqayya Waris Maqsood, Amana
6. Marriages: what they are and what they should be Dr. Mohammed Ismail, by ISNA Matrimonial Referral services
7. A Handbook on Marriage, by ISNA (costs around $3 )
8. Meeting the challenge of Parenting in the West by Dr. Ekram Beshir and Mohammed R Beshir
9. Abortion, Birth Control & Surrogate Parenting: An Islamic Perspective, Abul Fadl M Ibrahim, ATP

A. Teenegers: read 1, 2 ,3 (parents & teenagers should read 1,2,3 )
B. Those planning to get married: read #2,4,5, 6,7; opt: 8,9
C. After marriage(before planning to have children, and if still hanging on): 4,5,6,7,9
D. Planning to have children: read all books in C if you haven't already done so; 2,3, 8
E. After having children: Oops! No time to read! Throw the TV out...
F. Parents of young children: read 2,3,5,8
G. Recycle the books to next generation, and remember the grudge you had against your parents!
In the category B,C,D&E the spouses and parents should read the books and follow the advices there in. Just reading a book doesn't change one's behavior overnight, a constant reading, self-reminding and internalizing of the teachings should be continued till the aspects become part of your nature(can take 3-12 months).
2003-12-08

OMRAN FROM EARTH said:
Good article, in todays world parents make it harder for marriage, every parent wants their daughter to marry a eng/scientists.doctor and every boy has to wait until they graduate from college. This is none islamic, furthermore, people are being push to these long engagments that end in before the marriage begins. I feel today Moslim parents beleive more in education than have in trust in Allah on marriage, do they think that their kids will wait until they graduate before they have any sexual encounters.Social life in university is all about sexual presentation it is hard not to look when you are not suppose to look especially when the girls are wearing outfits that are specially made to hypnotise the lower self. Girls desperatly seek love espcially when everyone around them have boyfreinds, I know of moslim girls who won't have sex but do everything else. Parents wake up, it is nice thing to fantasize about your children modesty but not every child is prone to their sexual desires. By the time they get back home many moslims have expeinced multiple boy and girlfriends, and if you notice there are more divorces than before, in my opinion this is due to the many past relationships that give many prejudice and preasumption, basically it increases the dhan and distrust from both genders of the marriage
for give me Allah if I said anything wrong in this conversation
2003-12-08

MOHAMMED ALI FROM INDIA said:
It is very good article. I learned many things from this. As I have grown up childrens, this is best time to give them reality of sexual life.
Thanks for the author of this article.


with best wishes
2003-12-08

AHMED FROM U.S.A. said:
This article clearly shows that Allah (swt) knows best, and that if we adhere to His book, and the prophet's (pbuh) teachings, we will never become astray. What is being implemented in the west, which are the practices depicted in the article, is the product of mankind, which is not fool proof. When it comes to the curriculum of sex education in the west, it is obvious that mankind have done something that is very wrong, especially by decoupling it from morality.
2003-12-08

IRFAN FROM INDIA said:
Sex Education ! It should me given to children who attains a certain age that they understand the good & bad, it all depends on the family how they bring up the child in what type of environment.
2003-12-08

AMNA FROM USA said:
I agree for many reason..one is that we all should talk to
our kids..and see what they have in there mind. maybe
we find out how to help our kids for there better life.
however, i really liked your article.
2003-12-08

SHAWN FROM CANADA said:
We need more articles about this topic, educating parants is not easy in our Islamic society but it is very important to start educating our brothers and sisters........God Bless All
2003-12-08

ANSARUDDIN RAHIMI FROM THE BAHAMAS said:
It is indeed one of the best article, I read of late. I agree with everything except the last sentence. It should end " that Muslim children should be told not to engage in premarital sex as it is a sinful act because Allah has prohibitted it like other acts of indulging of alcohol, pork and drugs etc." I think both parents and children should read this article.
2003-12-08

IBRAHIM CHAMAS FROM USA said:
I think the topic discussed in this article is essential to look for especially in nowadays media,internet.... where our children get exposed to the horrible sex scenes and there is no one to talk to them about it.
2003-12-08

ANONYMOUS FROM CANADA said:
I really like the article, however, all the arguments are a contrast between our muslim society and the western. We can aknowledge our relgion without comparing it. Ah well, I am a girl and I do want to get married around the age of 24 and I don't see any inconveniences by doing that. And may God Protect me !
2003-12-08

SISTER M FROM US said:
As Salam Alaikum,
Brother Shahid thank you for bring this topic out in the open. Muslims try to shield their children from the topic of sex due to their own upbringing. However, it is critical that we educate our children about sex especially the morality aspect of it. In addition, the topic of the children's marriage is something the parents should start to think of when the children are young. The arranged marriage system that worked for the previous generations is no longer going to work, especially with the children raised in the American society. As children approach college age, parents and children should have a dialouge about each of their thoughs and ideas on marriage. Its sad and tragic to see so many young people of marriageable age remain unmarried or even worse to marry a non-muslim. Dr. Athar, thank you so much for bring these excellent points to light. These are some very important things we as American Muslims should be thinking about. These are essential for us to pass on the teachings of Islam to our children.

I have enjoyed reading this article and I plan to discuss this with the muslims in my circle.

Salaam
Sister M
2003-12-08

DA MUSLIM FROM CANADA said:
Very interesting indeed...
something which I think is very important and should be implemented within the Muslim families, especially with the corrupt society around us.
2003-12-08

YASMIN SHIRAAZ FROM UNITED KINGDOM said:
I wholeheartdly agree with the article stating that the west is posioning our childrens minds, leading them with the tempataion of sex in many ways that their young minds really do not understand. One of the main problems is that many adults also engage in pornographic behaviour as it is now so readily available. The dawn of the internet has made all forms of poronography easily accessible, infact the morals of all cultures are affected. Many indian and subcontintent sites are available as the men are their to serve the demand for them. Surely, it is our duty as the adult to show the young ones the right path? However increasingly many young men who come to these western countries to work or claim asylum forget the morals that they were taught as children and they are being seduced by the lurid images that are portrayed through pornography. In fact i can say that pornography actually spoils a couples married life as doubts can pour in to the minds of either partner, therby causing a rift within the marriage. There is no sanctity in marriage any more. it's Ok to be life the western people and divorce and just give up. People are unwilling to change their single lifestyles once they are married, They have to realise that Allah wanted us to enjoy the pleasures of the flesh, but with one person only.A person with whom we love, respect and honour. Not a sexual or phyisical slave. The time has come for all muslims in the world to unite against this unseen oppression and rejoice in the manner that Allah, the Almighty, the merciful, intended. He is the creator and unto him we will all answer.
2003-12-08

AKBAR KHAN FROM CANADA said:
Yes very very good. I especially like the fact that the author has drawn a clear correlation between people's curiosity about sexual relations durign the time of the Prophet (saaw), and people's curiosity about sexual relations now, today.

There are many things that the Prophet, the Muslims during his time, and the Muslims during the time of the first four Khalifah, did that are not in line with what many Muslim parents are doing today with their children, simply out of not knowing how or when to approach their children about sexuality and its explanation in the Qur'an and Hadith.

Islam came for all of humankind, and therefore this is a clear call to the people of the West, to come to learn what Islam truly teaches, and how we share many similar family, social, and moral values with Christian, Jewish, and other religious values. How can we as Muslims show non-Muslims that we are not strict, violent, and backward as many people seem to believe? It is by educating them about what Islam teaches us Muslims about such topics as sexuality.

During a time where homosexuality and adultry are commonly accepted practices within Canada and the USA at least, we Muslims must come out and say what and why our faith, way of life, says that some things are allowed, and why some thigns are not. I say this only because individuals are saying that they can interpret Islam to suit their own lifestyles. We cannot have a growing population of people masquerading as Muslims and that they say Islam allows sex before marriage and lewdness!! For this reason adn this reason only, Muslims MUST promote articles such as this and continue to strive to uphold our way of life. It is our duty, this is us doing Dawah. We should not be shy to stand up for our values with conviction!!!

Jazakamullah Khairun.

More educational material like this article. Alhumdulillah
2003-12-08

NADEEM FROM CANADA said:
I read about Islamic sex ed should be discues with regards of age of child. Finaly I like the difference b/w SEX and LOVE in this issue.
God Bless you.
2003-12-07

SABIRA MOHAMED ASHRAFF FROM SINGAPORE said:
Alhumdulillah! I must take this opportunity to state that this article really depicts the truth in terms of sex educatioon in the west and an Islamic perspective. I am a trained sex education teacher from the ministry of education,singapore.I also teach Islamic studies to a group of students in my own capacity. I feel that this article has really been timely , useful and optimistic. Thankyou.
2003-12-07

FLEMINGBURRELL FROM UNITED STATES said:
I personally agree with the article on a few points. First Dr. Athar brings up in excellent point on how the upbringing of Muslim parents renders them unknowledable about the concepts of human sexuality. Of course, in certain societies sex is not a "dirty" word. Perhaps we can draw example in the Indian culture, primarily Hinduism where sex is considered a "gift" from the divine, obviously we Muslims do not uphold such a character but in essence, this statement refers to many cultures having different sayings on the value and openess of human sexuality in society. In my first point I do believe human sexuality should be taught by Muslim parents. Of course, one would say that if we are prohibited against having pre-marital sex then the full emphasis on human sexuality would become nullified. I disagree. Children in the evolving psychological stages are curious beings. Children up until the point of being an adult are curious, even in light of sexual education. I draw another reference from Dr. Athar when he says that American public schools do not five enough adequate education on human sexuality, I agree. As a young person in the 8th grade I too, didn't get enough training on what it is to have sex, let alone what are the stages of sexuality. This lack of knowledge came up until my first years in college but even then I needed restraint. In those years in high school I wasn't Muslim then but am now (Alhamdulilah) and in those times I had always thought having pre-marital sex was wrong because of the risk, such risk many teenagers are taking now. I would also add that kids in their youth are "free acting" if you will call it that, in the sense of acting even when their are knowing the risks. Because parents teach their youth, the faith comes from the youth in him or herself. So in summary parents should teach their children about human sexuality as well as respect for other cultures as Dr. Athar mentions (in reference to why Muslim males do not marry Muslim females).
2003-12-07

MOHAMMED ABDULMUQEET FROM US said:
Salams, One of the points to be noted is if parents/academicians shy away from imparting this important aspect of life than kids will be left on their own to decide where to get the information. Internet for one gives them more on what they're looking for. But this would be dangerous without proper understanding and advice as the Doctor pointed out. Don't we ask our kids not to do a robbery and what are the consequences if they did? why should the most important aspect of life be left for others?
Thank you for the thought provoking article.
-Jazakallah
Muqeet
Chicago
2003-12-07

HUZAIMAH BTE AHMAD FROM SINGAPORE said:
I suppose teenagers nowadays see it as a norm to engage in pre-marital sex and it may seem an oddity if they are not doing it. Thus,parents (especially Muslim parents) should be more open in the discussion of the topic and make their children see the values through the Islamic perspective. Proper guidance and instilling the correct Islamic values may help to deter this problem. It is not just enough to be a Muslim but more importantly one has to be a PRACTISING MUSLIM.
2003-12-07

ASLAM SYED. FROM CANADA. said:
I am happy that you have discussed a very important topic which the parents , especially many of the Muslims , feel shy or hesitant to discuss with their innocent children at the approriate time of adulthood . This mistaken atitude of the parents many a times results in the children either becoming victims of harmful misguidance or remaining confused and shy on their part to be free with the parents or other elderly wellwishers to be morally safe and healthy & happy !
I have taken pleasure to mail the article to many of the friends & kith & kin of the family who shoulder the responsibility of educating their adolesant chilren .
I pray Allah (swt) to reward the authors & your institution for these efforts to guide the society rightly ! Jazakamullah Khair !
2003-12-07

MBARAK FROM UNITED KINGDOM said:
Briliant atticle
2003-12-07

NAZIR HARB FROM USA said:
Asalamu Alakom! Thank you very much for writing this essay, insha'Allah you will continue to do such work in enlightening Muslims about Islam and how to apply Islam in their daily lives all over the world. You make excellent and well-backed statements and I would like to ask you a couple of rather provokitive questions. What do you think the Islamic position is on masturbation? for both males and females. Is it an acceptable method and why/why not?

Thank you!
Masalameh

Thank you very much.
2003-12-07