Chapter on Social Relations

Shaykh al-Islām—may Allah have mercy on him—was asked:

About people who keep company with “beardless youths.” One of them may kiss a boy or lie beside him, yet they claim that they keep such company for Allah’s sake and regard it as neither sinful nor shameful. They say, “We keep company with them without indecency.” The boy’s father, paternal uncle and brother know about this but do not object. What is Allah Most High’s ruling concerning these people? How should a Muslim deal with them under these circumstances?

The Answer

He replied:

Praise be to Allah. A handsome, beardless boy is, in many respects, subject to the same rules as a non-mahram woman. It is not permissible to kiss him for sensual pleasure. Rather, only someone who can be trusted with him, such as his father or brothers, may kiss him. Looking at him with such pleasure is likewise impermissible by unanimous agreement. Indeed, the majority hold that looking at him is forbidden when there is a fear of such pleasure arising. One may look at him only when there is a need and no improper desire, such as when conducting transactions with him, bearing witness concerning him, or similar circumstances—just as one may look at a woman when there is a need.

As for “lying beside him,” this is far too indecent for its ruling even to need asking about. The Prophet, may Allah bless him and grant him peace, said:

“Instruct them to pray at seven; strike them for neglecting it at ten; and separate