The Permissibility of Same Sex Marriage: a Philosophical Cum Islamic Perspective

The question of the permissibility of same-sex marriage is a subject of extensive debate across philosophical, ethical, and religious dimensions. From a philosophical perspective, the discourse often revolves around concepts of human rights, individual freedom, and moral relativism. Proponents argue that same-sex marriage is a fundamental human right, grounded in the principles of autonomy and equality. They invoke liberal theories of justice, particularly John Rawls’ notion of fairness, which advocates for social institutions that do not discriminate based on personal identity. Furthermore, utilitarianism supports same-sex marriage on the grounds that it maximizes happiness for consenting individuals without causing harm to others. However, opponents raise concerns about the moral and social implications, often drawing from natural law theory, which posits that marriage is inherently ordered toward procreation and the complementarity of sexes. From an Islamic perspective, the permissibility of same-sex marriage is largely contested based on scriptural interpretations and theological principles. Traditional Islamic jurisprudence, based on the Qur’an and Hadith, views marriage as a sacred contract between a man and a woman, designed for procreation and societal stability. The prohibition of same-sex relations in Islamic law is often derived from explicit verses in the Qur’an, particularly in the story of Prophet Lot, where such relationships are condemned. However, contemporary Islamic scholars and reformists argue for a re-examination of these texts, emphasizing the principles of justice, compassion, and human dignity within Islamic ethics. They assert that an inclusive interpretation of Shari’ah should accommodate evolving social realities while upholding the core tenets of Islamic morality. The intersection of philosophy and Islamic thought on same-sex marriage reveals a complex discourse between universal human rights and religious moral frameworks. While secular liberal philosophies tend to advocate for legal recognition based on individual liberties, Islamic perspectives remain largely resistant due to theological constraints. Nonetheless, emerging debates within Islamic scholarship suggest a gradual shift towards more nuanced discussions on the topic. The issue thus remains a dynamic and evolving field of inquiry, requiring continuous engagement between philosophical reasoning and religious tradition.