Is It Permissible to Assist Homosexuals in Their Treatment for Sexually Transmitted Infections?
Hanafi Fiqh
Answered by Ustadh Salman Younas
Question: I work with an non-governmental organization and part of the work is treating homosexuals to cure them from sexually transmitted diseases. Most of them get married to cover up there sexual orientation. So they have to be treated to protect these women from contracting the diseases. Is it ok to continue working in this place?
Answer: assalamu alaykum
There is nothing wrong with this. In fact, it will be rewarding if you do this with a high and noble intention.
The main reason why you should be treating such people is because they are human beings suffering from a horrible illness that requires assistance and support to cope with and cure. Homosexuality may not be permitted in Islam but that does not mean that homosexuals can be neglected when it comes to extending such support to them.
To think it would be fine to leave these people with such an illness if they were not going to marry women is rather cruel and contrary to our higher ethical values. This is not what our religion teaches us. There are many texts in our tradition calling upon us to be good and merciful towards all of creation:
For example, the Qur’an constantly calls people to do good, such as in the verse, “God enjoins justice and good conduct” (16:90) and “Do good for God loves those who do good.” (2:195)
Similarly, the Prophet (blessings and peace be upon him) said that, “The best of people is one who most benefits others,” [al-Tabarani] and “Those who show mercy will be shown mercy by the Most Merciful.” [Abu Dawud] Being merciful to all creation was in fact part of the essence of the Prophet (blessings and peace be upon him) as clearly attested to in the Qur’an, “and we have not sent you but as a mercy for the world.” (21:107)
In light of the above, assisting these individuals is part of benefitting others and showing mercy towards them. This is the way of the Prophet (blessings and peace be upon him) that we strive to uphold in our lives. So, my advice to you would be to make a lofty attention and continue benefitting the needy and vulnerable around you.
Salman
Checked & Approved by Shaykh Faraz Rabbani
