What is the definition of fornication (zina), and how is an act deemed fornication according to the Sharia?
Source: FtawySummary from Ftawy's records · added here Oct 24, 2026
Fornication has a general meaning that includes committing forbidden acts such as looking and touching, as corroborated by the Prophet's (peace be upon him) saying: "The two eyes commit fornication, and their fornication is looking..." And it has a specific meaning, which is the intentional insertion of the glans into a human private part without marriage, ownership, or شبهة (semblance of right), and this is the type that necessitates the prescribed punishment (حد).
Summary from Ftawy's records · added here
Reviewed by El Fatwa's sharia committee.
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- Ftawy
- Original fatwa ID
- 34043
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- Summary from Ftawy's records, reviewed by El Fatwa's sharia committee.
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