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Reasons for the Prohibition

Published in Islamic Law 2 mins read

Is Surrogacy Allowed in Islam?

No, surrogacy is generally not allowed in Islam. The majority of Islamic scholars consider surrogacy haram (forbidden) due to concerns about lineage and potential violations of Islamic principles.

The primary reason for the prohibition stems from the importance placed on establishing clear and unambiguous lineage in Islam. Surrogacy, it's argued, creates uncertainty and confusion regarding the child's parentage, potentially violating God's will. This is seen as going against the deeply held belief in forming families solely on the basis of biological ties. Furthermore, the potential for unwitting marriage between half-siblings resulting from surrogacy is viewed as a dangerous societal consequence.

Several key arguments against surrogacy within Islamic jurisprudence include:

  • Lineage Confusion: The process of surrogacy obscures the child's true biological parents, creating uncertainty about family lineage and inheritance rights.
  • Risk of Incest: The possibility of unknowingly marrying a half-sibling, a direct consequence of unclear lineage stemming from surrogacy, is considered a significant risk.
  • Violation of Islamic Principles: The act of surrogacy itself is considered an innovation (bid'ah) and a deviation from traditional Islamic practices regarding family formation.

While there are differing opinions among individual scholars, the prevailing view within Sunni Islam firmly holds surrogacy to be prohibited. Some Muslims might seek surrogacy in countries where it's legal, even if it contradicts Islamic teachings in their own communities.

Alternative Perspectives

It's important to note that some alternative interpretations exist within the diverse landscape of Islamic scholarship, although these remain minority viewpoints. These interpretations may focus on specific situations where surrogacy may be considered permissible under strict conditions and with careful adherence to Islamic ethical guidelines. However, these exceptions are rare and not widely accepted.