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What should one do who has tried all solutions and acts of worship, such as fasting and supplication, to protect himself from masturbation and pornography, but has been unable to stop them, and feels distress and sadness due to his inability to marry?

1 min readAlso available in العربية

Masturbation is a forbidden habit that harms one's religion and worldly life. To help avoid it, in addition to fasting and supplication, one must have a sincere resolve and be mindful of Allah's watchful eye.

It is recommended to strive for marriage, and your being a new graduate or not having found a job yet should not stand in your way, for Allah enriches those who marry seeking His pleasure. "Three are entitled to Allah’s help: the warrior in the cause of Allah, the indentured servant who desires to pay his freedom dues, and the one who marries desiring chastity."

If the expenses of marriage are not available, you must inform the wife's guardian of your financial hardship.

If marriage is not feasible, then fear Allah, be patient, and continue to employ means that help maintain chastity. Avoid inciters of lust, occupy your time with beneficial activities, and engage in sports.

Committing a sin in Ramadan is graver, and masturbating during the daytime in Ramadan is more abhorrent and sinful. It requires making up for the missed day (qada'). The details of this are explained in Fatwa no. 109440.

Summarized from the full answer at Ftawy · reviewed Sep 2, 2026

Read the full answer on Ftawy