The topic is hot as many homosexual Muslims openly come out to declare their sexuality. For years homosexual Muslims have been hiding their sexuality due to the fear of what family would say and simply going against the religion. So what’s changed now? People are now following a more secular view and believe that they have the freedom to do what they want without the influence of Religion. So when Religion is taken away from the equation, how can homosexual Muslims claim to be Muslims?  Furthermore, with the strong influence of media, many Muslims are accepting their sexuality and declaring it to the world. This is because the media has led them to believe that it is okay to go against the holy books and be a Muslim and a homosexual – something which god has forbidden.

Islam and Homosexuality

The ancient religion, long before Muhammed peace be upon him was sent, there came a Prophet called Lut AS (the nephew of Abraham). He was sent by god to warn a people about the practices of homosexuality. The Quran states in chapter (26.165-6): “Out of all the creatures in the world, will ye approach males, and leave those whom Allah has created for you to be your mates? Nay, ye are a people transgressing all limits.” Islam forbids homosexual relationships because this goes against the plan of god. The purpose of relationship in Islam is to bare offspring, reproduce, and support one another as a female was created for the man and man for the woman (as seen in the story of Adam and Eve AS). Everything is created in pairs and homosexuality is a travesty of God’s plan. Therefore the holy book forbids homosexuality and Muslims must obey this without question. Furthermore, Islam condemns all homosexual behaviour because it is condemned in the Quran. Two women engaging in homosexual relations are mentioned in the prophetic teachings and the prophet Muhammad peace be upon him said: "Lesbianism by women is adultery between them." (Tabarani, sahih)" Moreover there is severe punishment mentioned in the Quran about homosexuals and the penalty is death.

There is no such thing as a Homosexual Muslim! This is because a Muslim is one who submits to the will of Allah, following the holy Quran and prophetic teachings. Like giving up alcohol, food during Ramadan and other temptations, a Muslim should try to control their homosexual desires. The cure to homosexuality according Sheikh Ramadan Al Qadri Al Azhari is good company. This is because homosexuality comes from the devil and bad company. One is not born a homosexual.

Many Islamic countries, following the sharia (Islamic law), do give homosexuals death penalties. However Christianity – and in particular – The Church of England is the state Religion in the UK and the Archbishop of Leicester, released a statement which stated that “……there should be legislation to enable same-sex marriages to take place in England and Wales.” Furthermore, Islam teaches that we must follow the law of the land. This means we must follow The Race Relation Act (2000) and The Equality Act 2010 (some legislations which protect individuals from being discriminated on the grounds of: Race, class, nationality, sexual orientation, disability, and age). We must ensure that homosexuals receive equal rights and that they are not discriminated against. This is to continue living in harmony and peace with one another, under a multi faith and multi ethnic society. However, homosexuality cannot be bought into Islam because this is a sin against god and so is forbidden.

By Afsha Farook!