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Is it permissible to forgo medical treatment for fear of uncovering one's 'awrah?

1 min readAlso available in العربية

Scholars have differed on the ruling regarding medical treatment. Some imams are of the opinion that it is obligatory if the illness is life-threatening or hinders the performance of obligatory acts and duties. In such a case, it is permissible to uncover the 'awrah for treatment. If the illness is bearable and does not impede the performance of duties, then it is permissible to forgo treatment, seeking patience and reward. It is also permissible to seek treatment and uncover the 'awrah due to need. Scholars have agreed on the permissibility of uncovering the 'awrah for treatment, even if it does not reach the level of necessity; mere need suffices. For one whose heart is strong and relies on Allah, and endures their illness or treats themselves without a doctor, that is permissible for them. As for one who has reached a state of dire necessity and fears perishing, medical treatment becomes obligatory for them, and uncovering the 'awrah is required if necessary.

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

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