Answered by: Mufti Mohammed Tosir Miah

Question 

Is it allowed to fantasize regarding the opposite gender, especially future husband or wife?

In the name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful

Answer

Allah (SWA) in the Holy Qur’an has said:

“Allah does not obligate anyone beyond his capacity.” (Surah Baqarah v.286)

There are two aspects to human deeds. One is an outward deed and the other is an inward deed.  Each of these two aspects is further divided into two kinds.  Voluntary and Involuntary.  Examples of outwards deeds done voluntarily is to speak by choice or to beat somebody by choice whereas saying something other than what one actually intended to say, or a palsied hand moving unintentionally caused pain to somebody.

Similarly, inward deeds that are voluntary are the belief in kufr and shirk and non-voluntary, for instance, the entry of some evil thought in one’s heart without an intention.

Voluntary deeds will be rewarded or punished. Similarly, inwardly voluntary thought will be rewarded or punished. However, involuntary thoughts will not be subject to any punishment as long as he does not dwell on it or continue to think of it, he is forgiven for it, because it does not happen voluntarily and he has no way of avoiding it. (Maariful Quran p.722 v.1)

Regarding your question, if these fantasies about one’s future husband or wife are involuntary, then there is no sin in it. However, if one prolongs and dwells on these thoughts and fantasies then it will be impermissible. This is because prior to the marriage the boy and girl are still considered strangers, hence, any fantasies about them will akin to having fantasies about unlawful men and women, which in Islam is haraam.

Only Allah Knows Best

Written by Mufti Mohammed Tosir Miah

Darul Ifta Birmingham