In Islam, based on teachings from the Quran and hadith having a girlfriend or boyfriend is considered haram, or forbidden. This encourages marriage importance and avoiding illicit relationships. Here is an in-depth look at the Islamic perspective on having a boyfriend or girlfriend is haram.

The Qurans Prohibition

The Quran explicitly prohibits relationships outside of marriage. Allah says in Surah An-Nisa (4:25):

If any of you does not have the means to marry a believing free woman, then marry a believing slave- God knows best [the depth of] your faith: you are [all] part of the same family- so marry them with their people’s consent and their proper bride-gifts. [Make them] married women, not adulteresses or lovers. If they commit adultery when they are married, their punishment will be half that of free women. This is for those of you who fear that you will sin it is better for you to practise selfrestraint. God is most forgiving and merciful.

This verse indicates that Muslims should seek marriage to fulfill their emotional and physical needs, ensuring that they maintain chastity and avoid premarital relationships.

Interpretation by Scholars

Prominent Islamic scholar Ibn Kathir explains this verse by stating that Muslims should be pure and chaste, refraining from illicit sexual conduct and relationships. This interpretation is supported by other scholars like Ibn Abbas and Al-Hasan al-Basri, who further clarify that any form of a boyfriend-girlfriend relationship is haram.

The Sunnah Stance

The Hadith also supports this view. One notable story involves Marthad ibn Abi Marthad, who asked the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) about marrying a former lover. The Prophet remained silent until the verse from Surah An-Nur (24:3) was revealed, emphasizing that those guilty of fornication should not marry except others guilty of the same sin or unbelievers. The Prophet then advised Marthad against the marriage, highlighting the prohibition of such relationships.

Consequences of Haram Relationships

Engaging in a boyfriend-girlfriend relationship is seen to have negative consequences both spiritually and socially. These relationships can lead to emotional distress, loss of respect, and distance from Allah guidance. Islamic teachings advocate for marriage as a means to protect people and society from these harms.

Summary

In conclusion, Islam strictly haram having a girlfriend or boyfriend relationship. The teachings of the Quran and Hadith focus on marriage to fulfill emotional and physical needs. Muslims are advised to seek lawful and respectful relationships within the bounds of marriage to maintain their Islamic faith and well being.