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Is ghusl obligatory for spouses if intercourse occurred without ejaculation, and is masturbation permissible if they do not reach climax?

1 min readAlso available in العربية

If sexual intercourse occurs by inserting the glans into the vagina, both the man and the woman must perform ghusl (ritual bathing), even if no semen is discharged. This is based on the Prophet Muhammad's (peace be upon him) saying: "When he sits between her four limbs and exerts himself, then ghusl becomes obligatory." Muslim added: "Even if he does not discharge." It is permissible for a husband and wife to enjoy each other however they wish, provided they avoid menstruation and the anus. For example, one spouse can masturbate the other with their hand. This falls under the permissible forms of enjoyment mentioned in Allah's (the Almighty) saying: "And those who guard their private parts, except from their wives or those their right hands possess, for indeed, they are not to be blamed." As for a man or woman masturbating with their own hand, it is forbidden.

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

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