Blackwell Reference Online

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Delineating criteria for “Islamic sexuality” appears impossible because there exist no uniform codes for sexual behavior or relations. There are in fact many Islamic sexualities . Even so, one may deduce certain (relative) constants in sexual ideology. Islam considers sexual desire a natural aspect of human relationship and dissociates sexuality from guilt. In the Qur'an, just as plants and animals are created “in pairs, two and two” (13:3), humans are created with a mate. Several Qur'ânic verses (2:183–7; 4:1; 53:45) refer to mating as a divine design for making a harmonious family, a microcosm of the society wherein people can lead a peaceful life. Thus, sexuality in Islam is in nature heterosexual, with women being men's “tilth”; men are instructed to enter their “fields” as they please (2:223). Islamic sexuality reflects gender power hierarchy. Men are active and on top; women, boys, slaves, servants, and maids passive and at the bottom. Having recognized the legitimacy of sexual desire, and having limited the legitimate outlet for sexual satisfaction to the marital bed, Islam promotes marriage ( nikâh ) at the earliest possible time. Yet in reality early marriage is not always possible. Marriage elevates intercourse from an act of lust to a sacred task and marks the boundaries of legitimate and illegitimate sexual liaisons. Marriage is an obligation of all believers. The restriction ... log in or subscribe to read full text