Is masturbation permissible for a man during an extended period of unmarried life?
The permissibility of masturbation during an extended period of unmarried life is a topic that has differing views among Islamic scholars, both Sunni and Shia.
According to Sunni scholarship, the position on masturbation is not uniformly agreed upon. Some scholars consider it permissible under certain circumstances, particularly when it serves to prevent a greater sin, such as fornication or adultery. For instance, it is reported that Uthman ibn Affan was asked about a man who had intercourse without ejaculation, to which he replied: He should perform ablution as he does for prayer and wash his private part.
Sahih al-Bukhari 5:44 This implies that while there are specific guidelines regarding physical relations, the context of controlling desires plays a role in the discussion of permissible actions.
In Shia scholarship, the view is somewhat similar. It is mentioned in Al-Kafi that a man asked about the act of masturbation, to which the response was: Whoever marries himself, there is nothing wrong with him.
Al-Kafi 3:1139 This suggests that there is a permissibility for those who are unmarried to engage in this act as a means of preserving chastity.
Overall, both traditions indicate that masturbation may be permissible under circumstances that involve self-control and preserving one's chastity. However, for a definitive ruling that applies to individual situations, it is always recommended to consult a qualified local scholar.
Sources
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Sahih al-Bukhari 5:44
Sahih al-Bukhari · Book 5, Hadith 44 · Narrated by Uthman ibn Affan
Ata ibn Yasar reported that Zaid ibn Khālid al-Juhani asked Uthman ibn Affan, "What if a man has intercourse with his wife but does not ejaculate?" Uthman said, "He should perform ablution as he does for prayer and wash his private part." Uthman said he heard this from the Prophet (ﷺ), and he also consulted Ali ibn Abi Talib, Az-Zubair ibn Al-‘Awwam, Talhah ibn Ubaydullah, and Ubayy ibn Ka'b, who all instructed him to do so. Urwah ibn Az-Zubayr reported from Abu Ayyub that he heard this from the Prophet (ﷺ).
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Al-Kafi 3:1139
Al-Kafi · Book 3, Hadith 1139
Abu Abdullah (peace be upon him) said: The ram in your land is better than the ‘jazur’. — OR — I asked him about masturbation, and he said: "Whoever marries himself, there is nothing wrong with him."
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