Title: Pre-Marital Sexual Relations Question: I am a Christian girl and I have dated a Muslim man for the past 3 months. I wish to understand the views of sex in terms of the Muslim religion as I am not sure if this is allowed prior marriage. Are there any laws in terms of masturbation, kissing and touching? Please help me. Thank you. Jennie Williams Answer: As a common feature of all the Abrahamic religions - Judaism, Christianity and Islam - chastity and loyalty are not only considered the most important social virtues in a person, but are also considered to be one of the primary bases of a sound family life and a stable society. It is because of this reason that each of these religions considers pre-marital and extra-marital sexual relations not only grave sins but also punishable crimes. Islam strictly forbids not only the specific acts of fornication and adultery but also wants its adherents to restrain themselves from even 'wandering near' these abhorrent acts. The Qur'an says: Do not even go near Fornication ( Al-Israa 17: 32) This directive of the Qur'an directs the believers to not only refrain from the act of fornication, but also to remain wary of all such circumstances and situations, which may entice them into committing the grave sin. In view of the foregoing explanation, it should be clear that Islam does not recommend any such closeness between an unrelated male and female, which has the potential of leading them into the grave sin of fornication. I hope this helps. Regards, Moiz Amjad October 17, 2001