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Is Watching Sexual Content Haram?

08 December, 2025
Q What is the Islamic ruling on observing sexual activities between others? Specifically, is the prohibition strictly based on the exposure of awrah (intimate parts), or does the ruling of impermissibility remain even if the individuals are covered or are in a relationship where looking at one another's awrah is otherwise permitted?

Answer

In the Name of Allah, Most Gracious, Most Merciful. 

All praise and thanks are due to Allah, and peace and blessings be upon His Messenger.


In this fatwa:

Islam prohibits viewing sexual acts, whether nude or clothed, because such content provokes desire, undermines modesty, and contradicts the command to lower the gaze. While accidental exposure is forgiven if one turns away, deliberate and repeated viewing is considered haram. Islam emphasizes repentance, self-discipline, and preventive measures to protect faith and spiritual well-being.


Responding to your question, Sheikh Ahmad Kutty, a senior lecturer and an Islamic scholar at the Islamic Institute of Toronto, Ontario, Canada, states:

Islam teaches that watching sexual content—whether it involves nudity or suggestive acts while clothed—is haram. Allah commands believers to lower their gaze and protect their chastity (Quran 24:30–31).

The Prophet (peace be upon him) cautioned against looking at others’ `Awrah (intimate parts). Islam aims to close the doors that lead to sin; content designed to arouse desire harms the heart, weakens self-control, and distances individuals from Allah.

An accidental glance is forgiven if one immediately turns away. However, ongoing exposure—such as videos, images, scenes, and suggestive reels—is prohibited, as it fuels lust and invites further wrongdoing. True peace and strength come through repentance, modesty, and disciplined habits.

If you are struggling, seek forgiveness regularly, install blockers on your devices, unfollow triggers, and fill your time with the Qur’an, prayer, and supportive company. Replace harmful habits with halal pursuits. Remember, “Whoever leaves something for Allah’s sake, Allah will replace it with something better.”

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Almighty Allah knows best.

About Sheikh Ahmad Kutty
Sheikh Ahmad Kutty is a Senior Lecturer and an Islamic Scholar at the Islamic Institute of Toronto, Ontario, Canada