Hadith Prohibition of Celibacy

Reference: Jami` at-Tirmidhi 1082 from The Book on Marriage by Imam at-Tirmidhi

Scholarly Commentary

The prohibition of celibacy (tazahhud) in Islam refers to the complete abandonment of marriage without valid religious justification. This prohibition stems from the Prophetic guidance that marriage completes half of one's faith and protects chastity.

Classical scholars like Ibn Hajar al-Asqalani explain that this prohibition applies to those capable of marriage without falling into sin. Exceptions exist for those genuinely unable to fulfill marital obligations or those pursuing specialized spiritual paths with proper scholarly guidance.

Imam al-Nawawi emphasizes that the Sunnah encourages marriage for those with means, as it safeguards modesty and increases the Muslim community. The prohibition serves to maintain balance in worldly and spiritual pursuits, rejecting monastic innovations not prescribed in Islamic law.

Legal Ruling (Hukm)

The majority of scholars consider voluntary celibacy without legitimate excuse as makruh (disliked). Some early authorities even considered it haram (forbidden) for those with physical and financial capability, based on the explicit Prophetic prohibition and the command to marry in Quran 24:32.