What is the ruling on one who has sexual thoughts and fantasies that arouse lust while awake, leading to the emission of semen? Does this necessitate ghusl, and is it considered a wet dream? Are these thoughts forbidden? How can one get rid of them permanently? And do they indicate weakness of faith?

It is forbidden for an unmarried person to imagine engaging in sexual intercourse with someone unlawful to them, and to continue thinking about it, as this may lead them to vice. Such thoughts are considered idle talk, which Allah has purified the believers from and praised them for turning away from. If one overindulges in such thoughts to the point of seminal emission, ghusl (ritual bath) becomes obligatory. Those who find themselves in this situation are advised to fill their time with worship and beneficial work.