Answered by Shaykh Amjad Rasheed
I look at women frequently, which throws me into masturbation. I try to repent but I return to unlawful looking. What should I do?
I ask Allah, the All-Generous, to pave for you and for all of us the way of obedience and the way of refraining from disobedience. Allah willing, both ways will be made easy through sincerely seeking them.
To begin with, I advise you to remind yourself of the greatness of your Lord whom you disobey, and to make known to your nafs (self) that looking at the opposite sex is a vain lust followed by regret and loss, and that the unlawful look is an arrow (that strikes) into the believer’s heart.
You should strive to stay away from the places where unlawful looking is made easy for you. It is also recommended that you keep the company of a righteous brother when moving about who will help you do the good until you get rid of that which tires you. Furthermore, you should make Dhikr (remembrance) of Allah at all your states.
The teacher of the good – may Allah bless him and give him peace – guided us to the medicine of unlawful looking, namely, marriage. Hasten to it if you can. Otherwise, adhere to fasting. Allah willing, marriage or fast should solve the problem. The Prophet- blessings and peace be upon him- said: “Oh, young men! Whosoever is able should marry, for it lowers the gaze and protects the private parts and whosoever is unable should fast for it is a protection” (Sahih al-Bukhari).
Eating less (or no) fat, meat and dairy products is also of the things which help one lower one’s gaze. For eating these foods contribute to stimulate the sexual desire.
Finally, make lots of dua (prayer) and you will succeed. May Allah undertake our guidance.