Islam and Sexual Orientation

Islam’s holy book, the Koran, puts forward the idea that men and women were created in order to marry and procreate. Sexual relations outside this prescribed unit have been considered unnatural, unlawful, and punishable. Despite this, many Muslims who are not heterosexual argue that their sexual orientation is natural and thus from God. They seek to find a way to be both Muslim and authentic to their sexual orientation by challenging traditional understandings of what it means to be Muslim. This entry provides context to how this religion has historically understood sexuality and, in particular, the modern concept of sexual orientation. The entry discusses the Islamic [Page 988]worldview, marriage and heterosexuality, the role of Sharia law, and the various ways in which same-sex desire has ...