"The Messenger of Allah refused Uthman bin Ma'zun (when he asked) regarding celibacy, and if he had permitted it for him, then we would have castrated ourselves."
Hadith Commentary: The Prohibition of Celibacy
This narration from Jami' at-Tirmidhi (Hadith 1083) in "The Book on Marriage" demonstrates the Islamic position regarding monasticism and celibacy.
Historical Context
Uthman bin Ma'zun, a pious companion, sought permission to abandon worldly pleasures and live in celibacy, following the practice of Christian monks.
The Prophet's refusal establishes that Islam rejects extreme asceticism that contradicts human nature and the prophetic way.
Legal Ruling (Hukm)
Celibacy as a permanent religious practice is forbidden (haram) in Islam. Marriage is the Sunnah of the Prophets and the recommended path for believers.
Self-castration is strictly prohibited, as it constitutes mutilation of Allah's creation and violates the preservation of lineage (hifz an-nasl).
Wisdom Behind the Prohibition
Islam promotes balance - neither complete abandonment of worldly life nor excessive immersion in materialism.
Marriage protects chastity, fulfills natural desires lawfully, and establishes family - the foundation of Muslim society.
The companions' statement "we would have castrated ourselves" shows how seriously they took the Prophet's example, emphasizing the danger of innovation in worship.