Is it permissible for an unmarried man to commit zina (fornication/adultery) if he fears al-anat (severe hardship/ruin due to celibacy), or an inability to have marital relations and thus wrong his wife?
Source: FtawySummary from Ftawy's records · added here Sep 2, 2026
A Muslim is never permitted to commit zina (fornication/adultery), due to its destructive impact on society and morals, and the great corruption it entails. The fear of 'anat (hardship/irresistible urge) mentioned in the question is from the whispers of Satan, aiming to corrupt a person and distance them from God. A Muslim should proceed with marriage without hesitation, unless doctors confirm their complete inability to engage in marital relations. In such a case, their path is fasting and engaging in acts of worship.
Summary from Ftawy's records · added here
Reviewed by El Fatwa's sharia committee.
Read the full answer on Ftawyhttps://ftawy.com/en/questions/73249
Where this answer came from
- Source platform
- Ftawy
- Original fatwa ID
- 73249
- Added here
- . This is when the answer was added to El Fatwa, not the fatwa's date.
- Text
- Summary from Ftawy's records, reviewed by El Fatwa's sharia committee.
- Read the full ruling
- Read the full answer on Ftawy