Let me only remark that the modern West has not come near to...

Let me only remark that the modern West has not come near to solving all the legal problems that have grown up because of relatively free sexual relationships in contemporary society. If any real solution to these problems is possible, perhaps a certain inspiration may be drawn from a legal system such as mut'a which, with its realistic appraisal of human nature, has been able to provide for the rights and responsibilities of all parties.

As for the abuses of mut'a that have occurred in certain times and places, in large measure these can be traced to the refusal of people to observe the letter of the law; perhaps those who established mut'a had too high an opinion of human dignity, self respect, and fear of God. They no doubt thought that the Prophet's saying: 'Every religion has its special character trait, and the special character trait of my community is shame (haya') would continue in effect until the end of time.

At least mut'a can be said to provide a legal structure which, when observed, prevents most of the well known problems and abuses connected with unregulated sexual relationships. Sachiko Murata Port Jefferson, NY 14 December 1986 Acknowledgement The Muhammadi Trust wishes to express its gratitude to its patron for their willing and kind support in making this publication possible.…