Sex in married life has been openly recommended in Qur’an: “…when they [i.

Sex in married life has been openly recommended in Qur’an: “…when they [i.e., the wives] have cleansed themselves [after menstruation], you go into them as Allah has commanded…” (7) Fulfillment of Sexual Urge The Holy Prophet (s.a.w.a) and the Holy Imams (A.S.) also encouraged their followers to marry and to fulfill their sexual urges in lawful ways as can be seen from the following: The Prophet (s.a.w.a) said, “O you young men! I recommend marriage to you.

” (8) Imam Reza (A.S.) said, “Three things are from the traditions of the Messengers of God (A.S.): using perfume, removing the [excessive] hair and visiting one’s wife.” (9) Celibacy and Monasticism is Forbidden Islamic is totally opposed to monasticism and celibacy. ‘Uthman bin Maz’un was a close companion of the Prophet (s.a.w.a). One day his wife came to the Prophet (s.a.w.a) and complained, “O Messenger of God (s.a.w.a)!

‘Uthman fasts during the day and stands for prayers during the night.” In other words, she meant to say that her husband was avoiding sexual relations during the night as well as the day. The Prophet (s.a.w.a) was angered. He did not even wait to put on his slippers. He went to ‘Uthman’s house and found him praying. When ‘Uthman finished his prayers and turned towards the Prophet (s.a.w.a), he said: “O ‘Uthman!

Allah did not send me for monasticism, rather He sent me with a simple and straight [Shariah]. I fast, pray and also have intimate relations with my wife. So whosoever likes my tradition, then he should follow it; and marriage is one of my traditions.” (10) Beneficial Effects of a Married Life Various studies prove that married people remain healthier, physically and mentally. Islam has always maintained that marriage is beneficial for us in many ways.

Islam also regards marriage as a way to acquire spiritual perfection. The Prophet (s.a.w.a) said, “One who marries, has already guarded half of his religion, therefore he should fear Allah for the other half.” (11) How true! A person who fulfills his sexual urges lawfully would rarely be distracted in spiritual pursuits.

Marriage Enhances the Value of Prayers The Prophet (s.a.w.a) said, “Two rak‘ats (cycles) prayed by a married person are better than the night-vigil and the fast of a single person.” (12) A woman came to the Prophet (s.a.w.a) and said that she had tried everything to attract her husband but in vain; he does not leave his meditation to pay any attention to her.