Question
We are a group of Muslims thinking of starting an online web shop for Muslim married couples. We would like to sell adult related items (sex toys). Is this permissible?
Answer
Islam encourages hayaa (modesty). In fact, it declares hayaa and modesty as an integral part of faith. When hayaa and modesty leave, it is not difficult for Imaan to leave. Hence, it is recorded in the Hadith: “When shame and hayaa leave then you may do as you please.”
Firstly, these types of toys are not to be encouraged. Moreover, for a Muslim to be selling these items, despite whatever good intentions he may have, is really disgusting and disrespectful. One who has this type of shop is generally despised and looked down upon. He isn’t given the type of respect that a decent Muslim should be given.
Secondly, if his children who are growing up get to know that he is selling these types of items, they will lose respect for their elders, or alternately, they will begin to use these things freely or openly.
Thirdly, these toys are generally used more by unmarried people and unscrupulous people. We humbly request you to invest your energies in something that is going to be more beneficial and productive for the Ummah by enhancing their Islamic values and guiding them to their real goals in life.
And Allah Ta’ala knows best.
حدثنا أبو مسعود عقبة قال قال النبي صلى الله عليه وسلم إن مما أدرك الناس من كلام النبوة إذا لم تستحي فافعل ما شئت (صحيح البخاري، الرقم: 3483)
عن أبي هريرة عن النبي صلى الله عليه وسلم قال الإيمان بضع وسبعون شعبة والحياء شعبة من الإيمان (صحيح مسلم، الرقم: 57)
عن ابن عمر رضي الله عنهما قال قال النبي صلى الله عليه وسلم الحياء والإيمان قرنا جميعا فإذا رفع أحدهما رفع الآخر. هذا حديث صحيح على شرطهما فقد احتجا برواته ولم يخرجاه بهذا اللفظ ووافقه الذهبي (المستدرك على الصحيحين للحاكم، الرقم: 58)
روي عن عمر رضي الله عنه من سلك مسالك الظن اتهم (كشف الخفاء 1/44)
Answered by:
Mufti Ebrahim Salejee (Isipingo Beach)