What is the authenticity of attributing the saying, "I am a young, unmarried man who cannot find the means to marry women, and I fear for myself hardship (al-‘anat)," to Abu Hurayrah (may Allah be pleased with him)? And what is the authenticity of attributing the saying, "The Messenger was not given a choice between two matters except that he chose the easier of them," to Aisha (may Allah be pleased with her)? And do these two sayings have any relation to masturbation?

As for Abu Hurayrah’s hadith in the Two Sahihs about the youth castrating themselves due to their inability to marry, it is a subtle indication of the prohibition of masturbation. This is because the Companions did not ask about it despite their dire need, and the Prophet, peace and blessings be upon him, did not guide them to it.

As for Aisha’s hadith in the Two Sahihs about the Prophet, peace and blessings be upon him, choosing the easier of two options as long as it was not sinful, it is evidence for the prohibition of masturbation. This is because choosing the easier option is conditioned on it being free from sin and detestable acts.