Did Imam Ahmad ibn Hanbal and Ibn Abbas permit masturbation out of necessity, and does that contradict the Qur’an and Sunnah?
Source: FtawySummary from Ftawy's records · added here Sep 2, 2026
The issue is not about violating the , but rather it is an (independent reasoning) to ascertain the ruling of Islamic law, and the mujtahid (one who performs ijtihad) is rewarded. As for masturbation out of fear of falling into zina (fornication/adultery), a group of scholars permitted it, while others prohibited it. The jurists held that the intensification of desire is not what is meant by "fear of zina" unless it becomes overwhelming and there are strong inclinations towards zina. The Lawgiver (Allah) has made fasting an alternative to marriage to calm desire.
Summary from Ftawy's records · added here
Reviewed by El Fatwa's sharia committee.
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