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Different Interpretations and Perspectives

Published in Islamic Law 2 mins read

Is Donating Sperm Haram?

Donating sperm is considered haram (forbidden) in most schools of Islamic law. This is because any union of gametes outside of a marital bond is forbidden, regardless of whether it's through adultery or in a laboratory setting. Therefore, donor sperm pregnancies are strictly prohibited.

While the dominant view is that sperm donation is haram, some nuances exist within different Islamic schools of thought. Some Shia scholars might permit its use within a married couple if the husband is infertile, but this is not a universally accepted view. The vast majority of Islamic scholars maintain that using donor sperm is considered comparable to adultery, a severe transgression.

Key Arguments Against Sperm Donation:

  • Violation of marital sanctity: Introducing a third party's genetic material violates the sanctity of marriage and the exclusive rights of the husband and wife within their relationship.
  • Lineage and paternity issues: Using donor sperm raises complex questions about lineage, inheritance, and paternity, which are central aspects of Islamic family law. The child's lineage becomes unclear, creating potential legal and social complications.
  • Prohibition of Zina (unlawful sexual intercourse): The act is considered analogous to zina, further reinforcing its haram status.

Examples from Islamic Sources:

In conclusion, the prevailing and most widely accepted Islamic legal opinion considers donating sperm haram.