Islam emphasizes cleanliness and modesty. Touching one's private parts is permissible for hygiene purposes, such as cleaning or relieving discomfort (itching). However, any action leading to sexual arousal is considered haram (forbidden).
Permissible Touching:
- Hygiene: Cleaning after urination or defecation is essential in Islam and necessitates touching private areas.
- Discomfort: Scratching an itch or addressing a similar discomfort is allowed, provided it doesn't lead to sexual stimulation. Afterward, washing hands is crucial.
Example: It's acceptable to touch your genitals to clean yourself after using the restroom.
Forbidden Actions:
- Masturbation: Intentionally stimulating oneself sexually is considered haram.
- Sexual Arousal: Any activity involving touching private parts with the intent of sexual gratification is prohibited.
Example: Deliberately rubbing or fondling one's genitals for pleasure is forbidden.
Several sources confirm this distinction. One source states, "No, it's not Haram to rub your private parts but in Islam when you are feeling uncomfortable or when your private parts are itchy you can scratch it but after that you should wash your hands and most important it should not lead to any sexual arousal." Another clarifies that touching for cleaning or wiping is permissible, but "...playing with yourself, or masturbation, or sex..." is not. The key difference lies in the intention behind the action. Hygiene-related touching is acceptable; self-gratification is not.
