Is knowing baby's sex in the womb contradictory to Quran?
The question of whether knowing a baby's sex in the womb is contradictory to the Qur'an can be addressed by examining relevant verses and hadith. The Qur'an emphasizes Allah's comprehensive knowledge in the matter of creation, including what is in the wombs. For example, it states, Allah knoweth that which every female beareth and that which the wombs absorb and that which they grow. And everything with Him is measured.
13:8. This verse signifies that Allah is aware of all that occurs during pregnancy, including the sex of the child.
Additionally, hadith literature further supports this understanding. The Prophet Muhammad ﷺ explained the process of creation in the womb, stating: Allah appoints an angel over the womb who says: 'O Lord, this is a drop, this is a clot, this is a lump. If He wills to create it, then remember whether it is male or female, whether it is wretched or fortunate; what is its provision? What is its lifespan?' Thus, it is ordained in the mother's womb.
Sahih al-Bukhari 60:8. This narration indicates that determining the sex of the baby is part of the divine decree and knowledge.
Thus, knowing the sex of a baby does not contradict Islamic teachings, as it falls within the scope of Allah's omniscience and the processes He has established in creation.
Sources
-
13:8 · Ar-Ra'd
13:8 · Muhammad Marmaduke Pickthall
ٱللَّهُ يَعْلَمُ مَا تَحْمِلُ كُلُّ أُنثَىٰ وَمَا تَغِيضُ ٱلْأَرْحَامُ وَمَا تَزْدَادُ ۖ وَكُلُّ شَىْءٍ عِندَهُۥ بِمِقْدَارٍ
Allah knoweth that which every female beareth and that which the wombs absorb and that which they grow. And everything with Him is measured.
-
Sahih al-Bukhari 60:8
Sahih al-Bukhari · Book 60, Hadith 8 · Narrated by Anas ibn Malik
The Prophet (peace be upon him) said: Allah appoints an angel over the womb who says: 'O Lord, this is a drop, this is a clot, this is a lump. If He wills to create it, then remember whether it is male or female, whether it is wretched or fortunate; what is its provision? What is its lifespan?' Thus, it is ordained in the mother's womb.
Answers are generated and checked automatically; they may still be incomplete or imperfect. For religious rulings, consult a qualified scholar.
Ask your own question →