In Islam, gender selection is generally considered haram (forbidden), except in specific medical circumstances. The ultimate decision on the sex of a child rests with God (Allah). The Quran explicitly states that Allah creates as He wills, bestowing both male and female children. [61, 62]
Several Islamic scholars and sources emphasize that choosing a child's gender is interfering with God's plan. Any child, regardless of gender, is considered a blessing from Allah. [About Islam] The focus should be on gratitude and acceptance of whatever Allah provides. [r/MuslimMarriage]
However, some opinions allow gender selection for medical reasons, such as preventing the inheritance of serious genetic diseases. This is where the permissibility is debated, with a distinction often made between medically necessary selection and non-medical, social preferences. [PMC, NCBI, Sciencedirect]
Key Considerations:
- Religious Perspective: The core Islamic belief is that gender determination is solely God's prerogative. Interfering with this natural process is viewed negatively by many scholars.
- Medical Necessity: The use of gender selection technologies to prevent serious genetic diseases is seen differently by some scholars. This exception is based on the Islamic principle of preserving life and preventing harm.
- Social Preferences: Gender selection for purely social reasons, like desiring a son or daughter, is generally forbidden as it's seen as defying God's will. [Sciencedirect]
In summary: While some limited exceptions may exist for medical reasons, the general consensus is that choosing a child's gender for non-medical purposes is haram in Islam. Seeking guidance from religious scholars is recommended for individual circumstances.
