In Islam there are specific bounds of physical contact outside marriage as kissing for example has lines set to ensure dignity and modesty in the face norm being maintained. The question, “Can Muslims kiss before marriage?” is frequently talked about by Muslims in the context of modern problems where the cultural norms could be far from Islamic teachings. In this article, we will discuss the Islamic view on the issue depending on the Quran, Hadith and jurisprudential opinion, in order to obtain a concise explanation of the Islamic perspective regarding the topic.
Islamic Teachings on Modesty
Islam is very particular when it comes to modesty both in men and women which is why there is Islamic concept of haya (modesty). The Quran tells Muslims to be modest in their doings, behavior, otherwise one will lose his/her self-respect and moral principles.
In Surah An-Nur (24:30-31) Allah says to both men and women to lower their gaze and cover the private parts. The role of modesty in Islam is supposed to maintain healthy respectful relationship within limits of marriage.
Quranic Reference:
“Tell the believing men to lower their gaze and guard their private parts… And tell the believing women to lower their gaze and guard their private parts…” (Quran 24:30-31)
قُل لِّلْمُؤْمِنِينَ يَغُضُّوا۟ مِنْ أَبْصَـٰرِهِمْ وَيَحْفَظُوا۟ فُرُوجَهُمْ ۚ ذَٰلِكَ أَزْكَىٰ لَهُمْ ۗ إِنَّ ٱللَّهَ خَبِيرٌۢ بِمَا يَصْنَعُونَ
This verse itself carries an underlining importance of controlling one’s desires and refraining from doing that at which one happens to be tempted, such as getting physically intimate before getting married. Kissing, being a form of intimacy comes under this guidance.
Prevention of Physical Contact Before Marriage
According Islamic law it is forbidden to have physical contact between a man and a woman that are not married, because this is a foretaste of further evil. Becoming acquainted with each other by kissing before marriage will serve as a violation of the rules of shyness as described in Islam. The Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) clearly explained limits to prevent Muslims from acting in ways that might result in sinful actions.
In a famous hadith, it is said by the Prophet (PBUH):
Hadith:
“Do not approach unlawful sexual intercourse. Verily, it is a shameful and evil way.” (Quran 17:32)
This means, even simple steps that may result in sinful behavior, like kissing, are best to be avoided. The focus is on protecting ones actions the risk of falling into bigger sins.
Opinions of scholars about kissing before marriage were diverse.
Imam al-Nawawi: The concept of haya was discussed in the works by one of the most outstanding scholars, Imam al-Nawawi. He stressed that Islam prohibits any action which can lead to zina (adultery or fornication) and even touching would be a sin if one is not engaged but before marriage. To him any kind of manifestation of people’s sexuality, even kissing before marriage is inappropriate.
Shaykh Ibn Baz: Another famous scholar, the Shaykh Ibn Baz, clarified in fatwas that it is unpermissible in Islam to have physical contact before marriage. He went on to say how even though kissing may appear as not a problem, it can go ahead to desire further and temptations, and hence it is forbidden. His opinion agrees with the common interpretation in Islamic jurisprudence, that whatever could provoke sinful behavior should be avoided.
Shaykh al-Uthaymeen: Shaykh al-Uthaymeen also came to disapprove the pre-marital kissing. He said that although kissing may be showing of love, it can generate emotions and desires that can lead to unlawful acts. Therefore, it is therefore better to avoid any kind of physical proximity in order to avoid any chances of transgression.
Kissing Before Marriage – Emotional and Psychological Effect
Although, physical touch like kissing may be considered an act of love, Islam teaches that human sentiments and desires have to be regulated and directed legally. Premarital physical intimacy may result into legalistic emotional attachment outside the spiritual and lawful bond of marriage. Such relationships may also lead to anxiety, guilt, and confusion provided that these conflict with Islamic values.
Besides, kissing before marriage can further complicate interpersonal connection as it can cause disappointment or heartbreak in a relationship that fails to produce a marriage. This emotional turbulence can be averted by practicing the Islamic guide, which promote relationship of respect, trust and commitment within married complex.
Preventing Temptation and Maintaining Self-Control
Islam teaches Muslims to avoid any situation that can lead to temptation or fitnah, rather they should avoid their company altogether. Kissing before marriage is a ladder which one may go up all higher ladders of temptations and sinful acts like zina. The Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) gave know How to guard one from getting involved in sinning:
Hadith:
“Beware! There is a piece of flesh in the body, and if it becomes good, the whole body becomes good; but if it becomes corrupt, the whole body becomes corrupt. That piece of flesh is the heart.” (Sahih Bukhari)
This hadith helps us realize the essence of protecting one’s heart and wills. By avoiding behaviors like kissing prior, one saves his/her heart from being infected by illicit yearning.
The Role of Marriages in Islamic Life.
Marriage in Islam is a legal and sacred union, in that, it is where a man and a woman can demonstrate their love and girlfriend to Allah through their way. The restrictions prior to a marriage are not designed to suppress natural desires, but to help us to develop a better, more spiritual, and more respectable kind of life of commitment.
In Islam marriage is seen as the proper place to be intimate, such physical friendships, including kissing, are not only permitted in this relationship but preferred. This would uphold the sanctity and purpose of marriage and ensure that the rights of both partners are upheld.
Conclusion
To conclude, it is haram to kiss before marriage in Islam. The Quran and Hadith make it clear to avoid being modest and taking any of those actions that can lead to sin. Any kind of physical intimacy including kiss is forbidden before marriage because it can cause temptation, and further sinful behavior. Imam al-Nawawi, Shaykh Ibn Baz, and Shaykh al-Uthaymeen, are just a few of the scholars that agree that kissing before marriage is haraam in Islam. Muslims are taught by all this to have self control and keep their dignity intact until the marriage ties are lawful. Thus Muslims should avoid kissing and any kind of physical contact before marriage to stick to the bounds of Islamic practices.
