Question:
Assalamu alaykum. Is it permissible for a man or woman to fantasize that they are having sexual relations with other to whom they are married?
Country: United Kingdom
Answer:
Wa alaykum salam wa rahmatuLlah wa barakatuHu,
In Tuhfah v.7, p. 205-06, Ibn Hajar mentioned the case of a man having relations with his wife while fantasizing about the beauty of another woman until he fantasizes that he is actually making love to another. He mentions that the scholars differ on this issue, and that a group of later authorities, from amongst them Ibn al-Firkah, Bizri, Raddad, and Suyuti, opined that it is permissible. Ibn Hajar inclined towards the opinion, and Shabramallisi stated that it is relied-upon [mu’atamad]. (See: Sharwani, v. 7, p. 205-06) However, it is not permissible for one to desire [tamany] another man’s blessing – like his womenfolk – or the unlawful act of fornication; both are unlawful.
And Allah knows best.
Shafiifiqh.com Fatwa Dept.