Monday, November 1, 1999
QUESTION
Dear Bilqis,
I need your help. I believe in Islam, but I have strayed.
I am a young woman. Recently, I befriended another young woman
about my age. Things were fine until one day after classes when
it all got very sinful. I don't know how but it all went out
of control and we found ourselves practising desire and giving
in to temptation with each other in the shower.
Bilqis, I have to admit I enjoyed it although now we both
feel very remorseful and dirty. We didn't tell anyone about it.
I think what we did was haram in Islam but I never found the
proper verse which refers to women being sexual to each other.
What if I do the things Islam requires of a woman (marry and
bear children and glorify God) but still keep my practise on
the side?
-M
BILQIS ANSWERS:
Dear M,
Islam is a complete way of life for
those who call themselves Muslim. Islam is a choice to follow
certain basic tenets which are divinely ordained. Same sex behaviour
is unlawful, forbidden, haram.
Sexual activity is based in marriage
for the purposes of mutual love and procreation. There are many
today who will debate the "pros" and "cons"
of this position, nevertheless, it is the Islamic position and
one which Islam is prepared to defend both intellectually and
spiritually. America is an "open" society which in
many ways allows the "freedom" to live as you
believe. This is a benefit to many of us here while at the same
time opening the doors to many harmful and sinful alternatives.
You need to make the choice. Homosexuality is not compatible
with Islam.
I would suggest that you go to: www.ourdialogue.com/contents.htm for a topical index on Islamic subjects. There
is a section on homosexuality under "H". There are
some Qur'anic ayats (verses) also you should look at: 26:165-166,
27:55, and 29:28-29.
Life changes usually should be taken
day-by-day always striving to move in the direction you want
to go. It is said that if we walk toward Allah (swt), He runs
toward us. Associating with other practicing Muslims, getting
involved in Islamic activities all would make being a Muslim
easier for you -while at the same time avoiding those things
inconsistent with an Islamic lifestyle. I wish you the best and
hope that Islam and virtue is your choice. Lastly, if you do
choose Islam and obedience of Allah, you no longer need to feel
dirty about what you did. Simply perform taubah (sincere
repentance) and Allah will Insha'Allah forgive your sin and you
will be purified of it.
-Bilqis