Ramadan in 2024 is expected to begin on Monday, March 11, 2024, and will end on Tuesday, April 9, 2024. The celebration of Eid al-Fitr, which marks the end of Ramadan, is expected to be celebrated on Wednesday, April 10, 2024. Let's engage in respectful discussions about sexual relations during Ramadan, reflecting on the guidance provided by Islamic teachings.
The Ramadan calendar is structured around the lunar Islamic calendar, which means the exact beginning and end of Ramadan can vary by one or two days depending on the moon's sighting. This period is a time for fasting, prayer, reflection, and community for Muslims worldwide. During Ramadan, fasting from dawn until sunset is observed, during which time individuals refrain from consuming food and drink, and engaging in sinful behavior. It's a time dedicated to spiritual growth, increased devotion and worship, and acts of charity.
Accessing pornographic sites, or engaging in any actions related to viewing pornography, is considered haram (prohibited) in Islam, irrespective of the time of year. This perspective is consistent across the various schools of Islamic thought. The emphasis on refraining from such acts becomes even more pronounced during Ramadan, a month dedicated to fasting, prayer, reflection, and community. In Ramadan, Muslims are encouraged to exhibit the highest level of self-restraint and to avoid sinful actions and thoughts, focusing instead on spiritual growth and closeness to Allah.
The prohibition against viewing pornography stems from the broader Islamic teachings that emphasize modesty, chastity, and the importance of controlling one's desires. Pornography is seen as a direct contradiction to these principles, promoting immorality and potentially harming individuals and relationships.
It's important for Muslims to seek activities during Ramadan that align with the spiritual and moral objectives of this holy month, using this time as an opportunity to strengthen their faith, improve their character, and contribute positively to their communities.
During Ramadan, sexual activity between married couples is prohibited from dawn (Fajr) until sunset (Maghrib). This is in line with the discipline of fasting, which involves abstaining from food, drink, and sexual relations during these hours. "It is made lawful for you to go in unto your wives on the night of the fast. They are a garment unto you and you are a garment unto them..." (Quran 2:187)
Watching pornography is considered haram (forbidden) in Islam due to its explicit content and potential to lead individuals away from the path of righteousness and modesty, not just in Ramadan but at all times. "Say, 'My Lord has only forbidden immoralities – what is apparent of them and what is concealed...'" (Quran 7:33)
Engaging in video chats is permissible as long as the conversation remains respectful, modest, and does not lead to any haram (forbidden) actions or intentions. This applies to both Ramadan and outside of Ramadan. "And tell the believing women to lower their gaze and be modest..." (Quran 24:31)
Communication should be respectful, beneficial, and should not detract from the spirit of Ramadan. Topics that encourage spiritual growth, knowledge, and community welfare are encouraged. "And speak to people good [words]..." (Quran 2:83)
Having sexual desires is a natural human feeling. However, Muslims are encouraged to control their thoughts and focus on spirituality during fasting hours. Engaging in activities that stimulate these thoughts unnecessarily is discouraged. "But as for him who feared the position of his Lord and prevented the soul from [unlawful] inclination, then indeed, Paradise will be [his] refuge." (Quran 79:40-41)
Light physical affection between married couples is permissible, but it's advised to avoid actions that could lead to arousal or compromise the fast.
Masturbation is generally considered haram in Islam, and during Ramadan, this act would invalidate the fast.
If one accidentally encounters sexual content, it's advised to turn away immediately and refocus on activities that align with the spirit of Ramadan. "And those who strive for Us - We will surely guide them to Our ways. And indeed, Allah is with the doers of good." (Quran 29:69)
Using such medications is permissible within the context of marital relations after sunset and before dawn, with the consideration of health and mutual consent between spouses.
Open communication, mutual understanding, and patience are key. Couples should respect the fasting hours and engage in permissible intimacy after iftar (breaking the fast) and before suhoor (pre-dawn meal).
Engage in regular prayer, Quranic recitation, and reflection. Surround yourself with positive influences and avoid situations that may lead to impure thoughts. "Indeed, prayer prohibits immorality and wrongdoing..." (Quran 29:45)
Participate in additional prayers like Taraweeh, attend Quran study circles, engage in charitable activities, and spend time in self-reflection and supplication. "So remember Me; I will remember you..." (Quran 2:152)
Fasting itself is a practice in managing desires. Focus on the purpose of fasting, increase your engagement in worship, and remind yourself of the rewards of patience and self-control. "O you who have believed, decreed upon you is fasting as it was decreed upon those before you that you may become righteous..." (Quran 2:183)
Immediately lower your gaze and seek forgiveness from Allah. Engage in a good deed or recite Quranic verses to refocus your mind. "And those who, when they commit an immorality or wrong themselves [by transgression], remember Allah and seek forgiveness for their sins..." (Quran 3:135)
Set clear spiritual and personal goals for the month, maintain a daily routine that includes time for worship, reflection, and community service, and hold yourself accountable. "But as for him who feared standing before his Lord and restrained himself from impure desires, then indeed, Paradise will be his refuge." (Quran 79:40-41)
Yes, reading Islamic literature can greatly enrich your understanding of Islam, inspire you, and help maintain a clear and focused mind by providing spiritual nourishment. "Indeed in that is a reminder for whoever has a heart or who listens while he is present [in mind]." (Quran 50:37)
Engage in virtual community events, reach out to family and friends for support, and remember that Allah is always with you. Seeking companionship through prayer and supplication can also provide comfort. "And We have already created man and know what his soul whispers to him, and We are closer to him than [his] jugular vein" (Quran 50:16)
Keep a journal of your thoughts and feelings, set aside time daily for contemplation, and assess your strengths and areas for improvement in your faith and personal life. "[He] who created death and life to test you [as to] which of you is best in deed..." (Quran 67:2)
Focus on gratitude, recognize the blessings in your life, and practice patience and kindness. Engaging in acts of charity can also uplift your spirits. "Indeed, Allah is with the patient." (Quran 2:153)
Surah Al-Baqarah, Ayat al-Kursi (2:255), Surah Al-Ikhlas, Surah Al-Falaq, and Surah An-Nas are powerful for protection and spiritual purification. Regular recitation of the Quran as a whole is highly recommended. "So when the Qur'an is recited, then listen to it and pay attention that you may receive mercy." (Quran 7:204)
In the spirit of Ramadan, a time for reflection and connection, remember that our actions and thoughts should always reflect the purity and respect this holy month teaches us. As you consider reaching out to others through video chats, remember the wisdom of the Quran: "And tell the believing men to lower their gaze and guard their private parts. That is purer for them. Indeed, Allah is Acquainted with what they do." (Quran 24:30). This guidance encourages us to approach every interaction, including video chats, with a good mind and pure intentions.
Let's cherish and uphold the values of Ramadan in all we do. If you're thinking of connecting with someone through video chat, go ahead, but remember to keep your conversations respectful and meaningful.