Do imagining pornographic images, or masturbating, or looking at private parts and women carry the same ruling as committing zina (unlawful sexual intercourse)?
It is impermissible to intentionally imagine sexual scenes and gaze at 'awrah (private parts), as this is considered a form of metaphorical zina (fornication/adultery). The Prophet, peace and blessings be upon him, said: "The two eyes commit zina, and their zina is gazing; the two ears commit zina, and their zina is listening; the tongue commits zina, and its zina is speaking; the hand commits zina, and its zina is seizing; and the foot commits zina, and its zina is stepping. The heart yearns and wishes, and the private part either confirms or denies that."
The Permanent Committee for Scholarly Research and Ifta was asked about the ruling on an unmarried young man thinking about intercourse and imagining that he is having intercourse with his wife. They responded that it is impermissible because it is a means to falling into indecency. Furthermore, intentional thinking that leads to ejaculation is not permissible, and whoever ejaculates must perform ghusl (ritual bath). As for unintentional, fleeting thoughts, there is no sin in them.
Summarized from the full answer at Ftawy · reviewed Sep 2, 2026
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