In the Name of Allāh, the Ever Merciful, the Bestower of Mercy
In recent years,a baseless conspiracy theory known as “Love Jihad” has gained traction in some parts of the world, particularly in the context of relationships between Muslim men and non-Muslim women. This conspiracy theory alleges that Muslim men engage in deceitful tactics to convert non-Muslim women to Islām through romantic relationships, portraying this as an often-held nefarious agenda advanced by Muslims. However, a closer examination of the teachings of Islām reveals how unfounded and ridiculous such claims are.
Islāmic Principles on Relationships
To understand thefallacyof “Love Jihad”, it is imperative that one explores the principles of Islām regarding relationships and interactions between individuals. The Qurʾān provides crystal clear guidance on this matter.
Lowering the Gaze:One of the fundamental teachings of Islām as it relates to interactions between men and women is the concept of lowering the gaze. This principle is rooted in the Qurʾān. Allāh states:
“Tell the believing men to lower their gaze and be modest. That is purer for them. Indeed, Allāh is Acquainted with what they do. And tell the believing women to lower their gaze and be modest.” Sūrat an-Nūr (24:30-31)
This verse emphasises the importance of modesty and restraint in interactions between men and women.
Avoiding Zina (Illicit Sexual Relations): In the Qurʾān, Allāh categorically prohibits any form of illicit sexual relations (zina). Allāh states in Sūrat al-Isrāʾ (17:32):
“And do not approach unlawful sexual intercourse. Indeed, it is ever an immorality and is evil as a way.” Sūrat al-Isrāʾ (17:32)
This verse makes it abundantly clear that Muslims are instructed to avoid any actions that lead to sexual immorality.
Safeguarding Private Parts: Allāh further emphasises the importance of safeguarding one’s private parts in Sūrat al-Muʾminūn (23:5-6):
“And they who guard their private parts except from their wives or those their right hands possess, for indeed, they will not be blamed.” Sūrat al-Muʾminūn (23:5-6)
This verse underscores that sexual relations are only permissible within the confines of a lawful marriage.
In light of these Qurʾānic verses, it becomes evident that the notion of “Love Jihad” is not only unfounded but also contradicts the core teachings of Islām. Muslim men are explicitly instructed to lower their gaze and avoid any form of illicit relationships. Any attempt to manipulate or deceive individuals into conversion would not align with these teachings. How then, can anyone claim that the occurrence of such phenomena are sanctioned by Islām?
Written by Abū Dilāra Naief al-ʿAydarūs.
