THE

QURA’NIC

CONCEPT OF

CREATION OF LIFE

AND

FAMILY PLANNING

LIEUTENANT COLONEL SARFRAZ HUSSAIN

TAMGHA-I-IMTIAZ (MILITARY)

FORMER DEPUTY SECRETARY TO THE

GOVERNMENT OF PAKISTAN, ISLAMABAD

0332-5148200; 0333-5225009

A VENTURE IN UNDERSTANDING THE

QUR’AN

DEDICATED

TO ALL THOSE

WHO

WISH TO UNDERSTAND THE

AIM

OF CREATION OF LIFE

AND

DESIRE TO WORK FOR ITS ATTAINMENT

AND

IMPROVING THE LIFE FURTHER

DESIRED

ALLAH [SWT]

TABLE OF CONTENTS

Reference	Brief Contents	Page
Contents		3-5
Preface		6
Section-1 Creation of Life and Planning a Family		8
22:5-6	v Stages of creation of a human being v A way for a husband and wife	8
23:12-14	Creation of the first and subsequent humans	9
2:21-22	Object of creating humans and arrangements for sustenance	10
4:1	Worship the Guardian Lord and respect the wombs that bore you	10
7:54	Creation and governance are His domain	10-11
36:77-79	Creation after dried and decomposed bones	11
75:36-40	Control and stages of creation	11
76:1-3	Purpose of creating humans	11
Points for contemplation		12
Points of understanding:- · The object of creation and its achievement. · Human creation from dust or clay and the sperm and ovum.		12
Section-2 Child Killing		13
6:137	Natural depth of desire of having and bringing up children	13
6:140	Those who avoid having children	14
6:151	Do not kill children on plea of want	14-15
16:57-59	Birth of a female child	15
81:8-9	Killing a female child	15
17:31-32	Do not kill your children for fear of want	16
60:12	Adultery or fornication	17
Points for action: · NO one must resort to killing children fearing their maintenance. · Purity and legitimacy in sex matters. · Women must not be exploited in any walk of life.		18
Section-3 Chastity and Marriage		19
2:221	Do not marry unbelieving women	19
4:25	Faith and character of spouse	20
24:2-3	Punishment for adultery or fornication	21
24:32-33	Marry those among you who are single	21
33:34-35	Men and women who guard their chastity	22
Points for action: · Belief in Allah and financial soundness of man/ woman are some prelude to marriage. · Means of financial viability and restraining from illegal intimate relations. · Gender equality must prevail in the society.		23
Section-4 Consummation		24
2:222-223	v Women’s courses v Wife is your field	24
7:189	Creation of mate for comforting the spouse	25
Points for action: A reasonable gap between pregnancies. Methods of consummation. Care of wife on family way.		26
Section-5 Child As Heir		27
3:38	Prayer for progeny	27
18:46	Wealth and sons – ornaments of this life	27
19:3-6	Heir to look after heritage	28
21:89	Remaining childless is not desirable	29
21:96-97	Gog and Magog like state of population	29
Points for action: Bring up the children to be worthy of inheritance. Children be possessed lawfully and reared to be proud of. Population planning must - the actual and real welfare of humans and the state. Progeny should never become an obstacle in performing actions of continuing excellence		30
Section-6 Children - Giving Suck to		32
2:233	v Giving suck by mother for two years v Employing nurse for child	32
31:14	v Health of mother v Importance of providing suck by mother	33
46:15	Pregnancy and weaning – 30 months	33
Points for action:- · Minimum of two years gap between childbirth and the beginning of next pregnancy. Health of wife – a deciding factor for pregnancy. Marriage and having children. Education of family planning matters.		34
Section-7 Conclusion		35
23:1-11	Abstain from illegal sex	35
24:30-31	Men and women to guard their modesty	35-36
Qura’nic Policy	Matters of Family Planning	37
Nahjul Balagha	One of the conveniences of life is to have ….	38

Do they not see how Allah initiates the Creation, and then reproduces it? That is easy enough for Allah. Say: ‘Roam the earth and see how Allah initiated the Creation. Then Allah will create a later creation. Allah has power over all things; He punishes whom He wills and shows mercy to whom He pleases. To Him you shall be turned.’

[The Spider (Al-Ankabut), Surah 29, Verses 19-21]

- - - - -

He is the Mighty one, the Merciful, who created all things in the best way. He first created man from clay, then bred his offspring from a drop of paltry fluid. He then moulded him and breathed into him of His spirit. He gave you eyes and ears, and hearts: yet you are seldom thankful.

[Adoration (Al-Sajada) Surah 32, Verses 7-9]

PREFACE

Why was this planet arranged over millions and billions of years so that it becomes capable to sustain human life? How would this world look like without human beings? How would the civilization on earth support itself in case human population stagnates or starts growing negatively? What would be the plight of this world in the years to come if its population goes on increasing at the present rate? Does Almighty Allah desire that humans should plan their lives and their families? If so, what are the guidelines in this field and further what are the methods of planning a family taught to humans by Almighty Allah?

These and many more such like questions come to the mind of all those who care to contemplate on creation of human life. While pondering on the subject we may, however reckon the following as well:-

1. Is planning by itself incorrect in any way? Certainly not. So why oppose planning a family? One may have difference of opinion about the methodology of executing it, but not the subject itself.

2. What does planning a family imply? In case it means infanticide in any form, it is absolutely against the teachings of the human conscious and The QUR’AN. In case it stands for healthy family, it surly is in the best interest of all humans and as per the desire of Almighty Allah.

3. Is it incorrect to follow the Qura’nic teachings that are in the best interest of all humans? Positively not. So why not follow the Qur’an about family planning! You could have difference of opinion on understanding or interpreting the Qur’an, but should not or may I dare say cannot deny it altogether when it tells you something of your benefit.

4. Does the Qur’an invite only a specific class of humans to think about the teachings contained in it? I can reply in sure negative without any fear of contradiction from all sane and sober individuals of today.

5. Is the Qur’an addressed to the entire humankind for contemplation and action? Those who have read the Qur’an will surely say a very loud YES.

6. Is every human being likely to get guidance from the Qur’an? Presumably No. Almighty Allah announces guidance from the Qur’an, besides numerous other aspects, only for those who care to seek instruction and also practice righteousness. It sounds logical because no one can teach an obdurate who is not prepared to listen and heed to any logical reasoning meant for his betterment.

7. Have the present followers of the Qur’an in particular, and rest of the world population in general, acted fully and honestly on the teachings of Almighty Allah regarding rearing a family?

I will postpone the answer to the last question till the end of this writing and would request my readers to keep this in mind while critically glancing through this booklet.

The history of concern over the uncontrolled growth of populations is as old as recorded history, but it was not until about the 1950s that fears over a rapidly expanding world population came to be combined with fertility practices on the family level. During the 19th century, attempts to educate the community about methods of population control and the societal and economic consequences of sexual ignorance were largely unsuccessful.

Population growth rates vary considerably among the major regions of Asia. The annual rate of increase in East Asia, for example, is about half that of Southwest Asia, which overall has one of the fastest rates in the world. While Islamic countries generally have higher rates of fertility and birth than their predominantly non-Muslim neighbours. Indonesia, a predominantly Islamic Southeast Asian nation, has achieved one of the slower population growth rates among Islamic countries.

Pakistan was among the first developing countries to establish a state-funded family planning agenda. This effort began in the early 1960s when the Family Planning Organization was structured. The program ran into religio-political difficulties in the late 1960s as a result of opposition by fundamentalist Islamic groups. Consequently, Pakistan's total fertility and population growth rates are among the highest in the world; it increased from less than 2 percent in the decade following independence to slightly more than 3 percent in the 1980s. In 1986 Pakistan's population crossed the 100 million mark and today it is over 180 millions. The fertility rate, estimated at about 6.5 children per woman, has not declined, in spite of government-sponsored family planning programs.

The Qur’an claims education OF ALL HUMANS in all possible subjects of our interest. The topic of planning a family is also covered in ample detail in the Qur’an; one has to READ AND PONDER with unbiased mind for seeking guidance. Humankind in general and the Pakistanis in particular need to know as to what does their creator has to say about family planning. Let us turn to this Book, the gift by Allah Almighty for assistance and guidance of human beings for all times to come.

Lieutenant Colonel

Sarfraz Hussain Tamgha-i-Imtiaz (Military)

Saadaat House, Malpur (near Lake View Park)

Islamabad

0332-5148200

September 2009

SECTION ONE

CREATION OF LIFE AND PLANNING A FAMILY

Having arranged this planet (earth) very carefully and with complete details to be able to sustain life for millions and billions of years to come, in conformity and coordination with rest of the universe, Allah Almighty created humans on it. Humans are the heart of life on earth and indeed in the universe. This wonderful creation i.e. the human being came in to existence for a specified purpose and not merely for sport and play. The humans need to understand the purpose of their creation and then plan and act to achieve that.

Here are twenty Qura’nic verses dealing with creation and some aspects of planning a family:-

1-2

O mankind! if ye have a doubt about the Resurrection, (consider) that We created you out of dust, then out of sperm, then out of a leech-like clot, then out of a morsel of flesh, partly formed and partly unformed, in order that We may manifest (Our Power) to you; and We cause whom We will to rest in the wombs for an appointed term, then do We bring you out as babes, then (foster you) that ye may reach your age of full strength; and some of you are called to die, and some are sent back to the feeblest old age, so that they know nothing after having known (much). And (further), thou seest the earth barren and lifeless, but when We pour down rain on it, it is stirred (to life), it swells, and it puts forth every kind of beautiful growth in pairs. This is so, because Allah is the Reality: it is He Who gives life to the dead, and it is He Who has power over all things.

22:5-6

- - - - -

3-5

Man We did create from a quintessence (of clay); Then We placed him as (a drop of) sperm in a place of rest, firmly fixed; Then We made the sperm into a clot of congealed blood; then of that clot We made a (foetus) lump; then We made out of that lump bones and clothed the bones with flesh; then We developed out of it another creature. So blessed be Allah, the Best to create! 23:12-14

Points for Contemplation. From the above five verses of Surahs 22 and 23 following points emerge:-

1. Creation of life and particularly the humans is to manifest Allah’s might and power in the scheme of things in this universe.

2. First human was created from dust and/or essence of clay. Subsequent human creation takes place from life-germ or sperm/ovum when placed together in the womb of mother. Human creation from life-germ passes through various stages of creation before it becomes an infant, and that happens after it had stayed in the womb of mother for an appointed term. At various stages of it’s coming in to being the sperm/ovum becomes embryo then foetus and ultimately another creation when bones are clothed with flesh.

3. Last words of the Verse 5 of Surah 22 (but when We pour down rain on it) teach human beings in the most decent and allegorical language as to what is the most appropriate way for a husband and wife to approach each other in order to produce another living being. Readers are requested to go through this verse again and again to comprehend the message. They may ponder over the phrase ‘when We pour down rain on it, it is stirred (to life), it swells’. It will be appropriate to indicate in this context that a method adopted by a husband and wife wherein ‘rain does pour down’ is most likely to result in ‘earth stirred to life and it swells’ and hence the beginning of creation of another living being. Readers are once again requested to ponder over it more deliberately and consider an alternate method wherein ‘rain does not pour on earth’ which then is most likely not to result in ‘its beginning to stir and swell’.

*****

6-7

O ye people! Adore your Guardian Lord, Who created you and those who came before you, that ye may have the chance to learn righteousness; Who has made the earth your couch and the heavens your canopy; and sent down rain from the heavens; and brought forth therewith fruits for your sustenance; then set not up rivals unto Allah when ye know (the truth). 2:21-22

- - - - -

O mankind! reverence your Guardian-Lord, who created you from a single Person, created, of like nature, his mate, and from them twain scattered (like seeds) countless men and women; fear Allah, through Whom ye demand your mutual (rights), and (reverence) the wombs (that bore you): for Allah ever watches over you. 4:1

- - - - -

Your Guardian-Lord is Allah, Who created the heavens and the earth in six Days, then He established Himself on the Throne (of authority): He draweth the night as a veil O'er the day, each seeking the other in rapid succession: He created the sun, the moon, and the stars, (all) governed by laws under His Command. Is it not His to create and to govern? Blessed be Allah, the Cherisher and Sustainer of the Worlds! 7:54

- - - - -

10-12

Doth not man see that it is We Who created him from sperm? Yet behold! He (stands forth) as an open adversary! And he makes comparisons for Us, and forgets his own (origin and) Creation: he says, “Who can give life to (dry) bones and decomposed ones (at that)?” Say, “He will give them life Who created them for the first time! For He is well-versed in every kind of creation! 36:77-79

- - - - -

13-17

Does Man think that he will be left uncontrolled, (without purpose)? Was he not a drop of sperm emitted (in lowly form)? Then did he become a clinging clot; then did (Allah) make and fashion (him) in due proportion. And of him He made two sexes, male and female. Has not He, (the same), the power to give life to the dead? 75:36-40

- - - - -

18-20

Has there not been over Man a long period of Time, when he was nothing, (not even) mentioned? Verily We created Man from a drop of mingled sperm, in order to try him: so We gave him (the gifts), of Hearing and Sight. We showed him the Way: whether he be grateful or ungrateful (rests on his will). 76:1-3

Points for Contemplation

1. In above verses, the humans are made to realize as to what was (and is) the beginning of their creation. Hidden message over here is to once again make the humans understand the Might and Power of Allah [SWT] in all matters especially on the subject of creation and in that the creation of humans.

2. Having created the humans on this planet Allah [SWT] has not left them aimless. They have come over here with a definite and positive purpose. They must make use of all their faculties to realize that. Is it possible to realize the purpose by venturing in to the various activities of life and more so good life without any planning? Certainly not. Planning must therefore begin at the very first stage of life i.e. its creation itself and go on not only in the sphere of this world but for the life hereafter as well.

3. In the above verses it is again somewhere after the stage of ‘blood clot’ that a word of creation is used for humans and NOT before that.

4. Sperm mixed with ovum is something different than human and surely it is the beginning of becoming something out of nothing.

5. Grant of sight and hearing is a stage of becoming recognizable human out of a state of nothingness.

POINTS OF UNDERSTANDING

1. Allah [SWT] has not created the humans pointless but with a definite purpose. Almighty Allah has made all arrangements so that the humans may attain the purpose of their creation. On the part of humans it is the well-planned activity, of course with Allah’s help, which is very essential to realize that purpose. Planning must, therefore, encompass human’s whole existence beginning with the creation of life itself.

2. Human creation was initiated from dust [torab] or clay [teen]. Sperms and ovum are also a beginning stage of humans. It is after passing through various stages that these become a creation. As torab or teen cannot be called human beings, likewise sperm or ovum can also not be termed humans. This point must remain at the back of our mind while considering various methods of family planning taught by Almighty Allah in the Qur’an.

*****

SECTION TWO

CHILD KILLING

Killing of children due to fear of want or any other such like reason is inhuman and forbidden by Almighty Allah. Please bear in mind that human sperms and ovum do not entitle to be called child or children as explained in the previous section. It must also be remembered that human embryo till such time that it can be termed as creation or infant may also not come under child killing. Human embryo is 98 percent water for first 60 days of its inception when it is just 28 mm in size and about 2.25 grams in weight. Under mentioned eleven Qur’anic verses deal with the aspect of killing children:-

Even so, in the eyes of most of the Pagans, their "partners" made alluring the slaughter of their children, in order to lead them to their own destruction, and cause confusion in their religion. If Allah had willed, they would not have done so: but leave alone them and their inventions.

6:137

Points for Contemplation

1. Killing of children is such a horrendous crime that believers are not (even) expected indulging in it. Only polytheists are seen committing this act and that too when induced by their associate-gods. It implies that humans do not resort to killing of children by themselves. They do so only when induced by those who are held (wrongly) in high esteem by them. This speaks of the natural depth of desire of having and bringing up children.

2. According to the above verse infanticide leads to ruin and it also results in confusion in faith. Having been led to ruin morally and materially, and left confused in faith; is one left with any good in or for him/ her? Answer to it can only be in sure negative. Therefore, child killing cannot be accepted in any form or manifestation. In case such people (polytheists) had not displeased Allah they would not have indulged in killing their children. They surely displeased Allah by firstly rejecting faith and secondly by turning to their associate-gods in various matters of life. Hence, it was due to their misdeeds that they indulged in an act, which brought ruin to them materially, and confusion spiritually as a first step of punishment. What they will face in the life hereafter is yet to be seen!

3. Any amount of telling lies or making excuses leading to or facilitating child killing is termed as false by Allah.

*****

Lost are those who slay their children, from folly, without knowledge, and forbid food which Allah hath provided for them, inventing (lies) against Allah. They have indeed gone astray and heeded no guidance.

6:140

Points for Contemplation

1. This verse deals, probably, with those who avoid having children or are anti children in spite of the fact that Almighty Allah has given them more than enough to shoulder the responsibilities of looking after and bringing them up.

2. Indulging in infanticide is termed as being lost, from folly and having gone astray. Note the awfulness and the severity of this act.

3. Not marrying or not going to spouse is making unlawful what Allah has made lawful. This has been termed as inventing lies against Allah and thus having gone astray.

4. This verse seen in the perspective of those verses wherein having manageable number of kids is stressed, leads to highlight the importance of balance in human activities in this world.

*****

Say: "Come, I will rehearse what Allah hath (really) prohibited you from": join not anything as equal with Him; be good to your parents; kill not your children on a plea of want - We provide sustenance for you and for them - come not nigh to shameful deeds, whether open or secret; take not life, which Allah hath made sacred, except by way of justice and law: thus doth He command you, that ye may learn wisdom.

6:151

Points for Contemplation

1. Child killing is forbidden by Allah especially fearing their support and maintenance. Allah assures such like humans that He will support their children as He is supporting them.

2. Not indulging in child killing is an absolutely binding order of Almighty Allah. In case there is an appropriate cause that is also in conformity with justice then this killing is allowed. The appropriate cause in this context could be saving life of a mother during pregnancy or in the process of delivery itself if so necessitated on medical grounds.

3. In above verse indulging in foul sins [FAWAAHISH] whether in open or in secret is forbidden. Why is it so? One need not elaborate this point for those who believe in the words of Allah. However those who indulge in illegal sex forgetting that one day they have to meet their Lord have also learnt by way of contracting various diseases that this [indulging in foul sins] is extremely harmful for the individual and the society.

*****

4-6

And they assign daughters for Allah! Glory be to Him! And for themselves (sons, the issue) they desire! When news is brought to one of them, of (the birth of) a female (child), his face darkens, and he is filled with inward grief! With shame does he hide himself from his people, because of the bad news he has had! Shall he retain it on (sufferance and) contempt, or bury it in the dust? Ah! what an evil (choice) they decide on?

16:57-59

- - - - -

7-8

When the female (infant), buried alive, is questioned, For what crime she was killed;

81:8-9

Points for Contemplation. Considering the above verses of Surahs 16 and 81 following points emerge:-

1. Allah does not have children like the humans.

2. The individuals and the society must not take birth of a girl child as a matter of gloom or shame.

3. Killings of female children are specially prohibited by Almighty Allah as the future of humankind depends on these fragile and love inspiring creatures.

4. Tone of verses 8 and 9 of Surah 81 highlights the severity of the crime of killing girl child. The culprit involved in this atrocity is not considered even worth being addressed to by Almighty Allah. It is the infant girl child that is being asked as to what was her crime that she was slain? There could certainly be NO crime committed by an infant, what to talk of such a punishment.

*****

9-10

Kill not your children for fear of want: We shall provide sustenance for them as well as for you verily the killing of them is a great sin. Nor come nigh to adultery: for it is a shameful (deed) and an evil, opening the road (to other evils).

17:31-32

Points for Contemplation

1. Infanticide, especially prompted by fear of want, is a great sin. It is so because only those become involved in it who just give up striving in this world which is so very vital for honorable existence over here.

2. Child killing and adultery have something common. It probably refers to the purity and legality of male and female relations in order to own the responsibility of bringing up the children.

3. Drawing near to adultery, what to talk of resorting to it, is foul and evil. Allah desires that male and female members in a society should not go even near the limits prescribed by Him in such matters because otherwise it will be difficult to remain or prove to others as pure.

*****

O Prophet! When believing women come to thee to take the oath of fealty to thee, that they will not associate in worship any other thing whatever with Allah, that they will not steal, that they will not commit adultery (or fornication), that they will not kill their children, that they will not utter slander, intentionally forging falsehood, and that they will not disobey thee in any just matter; then do thou receive their fealty, and pray to Allah for the forgiveness (of their sins): for Allah is Oft-Forgiving, Most Merciful.

60:12

Points for Contemplation

1. Restraining from child-murder and not indulging in adultery are amongst the basic points on which women used to swear allegiance to the Holy Prophet [PBUH]. It speaks of the importance of these two points in the lives of ladies.

2. Adultery and child-murder have something common. Readers are requested to ponder over it. The link between child murder and adultery probably refers to the purity desired by Almighty Allah from all humans in sex matters and thus producing and bringing up the humans for peaceful and good living on this planet.

3. Women should obey all just commands of their men as part of faith. Life of great Muslim ladies should serve as a guide and model role for all the ladies.

4. Men should be forgiving and merciful towards women. This will help ensuring balance and happiness in the life in this world, which will go a long way in assisting the male population in achieving good in the life hereafter as well.

* * * * *

POINTS FOR ACTION

1. Killing of children is such a horrendous sin that Almighty Allah does not even feel like talking to the culprit of such an offence. All humans must, therefore, refrain from this dreadful act. There is a special mention of saving and rearing a girl child as the future of human beings depends on this innocent, fragile and love-inspiring creature. It must however be remembered that human sperms and ovum are not to be treated as children as explained in the first section. Individuals, society and the Governments have to perform their respective roles to ensure that NO one resorts to killing children fearing their maintenance.

2. Strict warnings that do not even go near adultery follow prohibition of the monstrous act of infanticide. There appears to be some link between child killing and committing foul sins. This link probably refers to the desire of humans indulging in illegal sex related acts which are not considered appropriate by any sane individual and also whereby they are not held responsible (specially men) for care and bringing up of child. Any society indulging in such foul sins is going to be a group of illegitimate people in due course of time. In an illegitimate group of persons you can expect anything but legitimacy. In case one could compute the losses (moral and resultant material ones) in such a background, it would be concluded that indulging in foul sin costs much more to a society than nurturing of children. Society and the Governments must ensure that all humans especially the men implement purity in sex matters in letter and spirit.

3. Women have a special and significant role in ensuring that society remains on correct track of morals. This role of women in a society should not only be recognized but they should also be helped and assisted in its performance by ensuring that they face no discrimination and at least get what is due to them as inheritance. Society has to put in extra efforts to see to it that women are not exploited in any walk of life.

*****

THIRD SECTION

CHASTITY AND MARRIAGE

Future of humankind depends on the institution of marriage. The purity in all human relations, especially those that are having direct responsibility of the creation and bringing up of life, will ensure the good quality of humans on the face of this planet. Here are eight verses from the Qur’an showing light on this topic:-

Do not marry unbelieving women until they believe: a slave woman who believes is better than an unbelieving woman. Even though she allure you. Nor marry (your girls) to unbelievers until they believe: a slave man who believes is better than an unbeliever even though he allure you. Unbelievers do (but) beckon you to the Fire. But Allah beckons by His Grace to the Garden (of Bliss) and forgiveness, and makes His Signs clear to mankind: that they may receive admonition.

2:221

Point for Contemplation.

1. Faith in Allah is a pre-condition for marriage. Those from amongst the believers who marry in violation of this condition know the fire that they have to face in their personal and social lives.

2. Man and woman are treated absolute equals while searching for partner in marriage.

3. Physical appearance and/ or social status of would be partner in life (male or female) is not desired to have much value in comparison to the quality of faith.

4. Humans should be mindful of Allah’s revelations because in these lie their own good not only of this life but also of the hereafter.

*****

If any of you have not the means wherewith to wed free believing women, they may wed believing girls from among those whom your right hands possess: and Allah hath full knowledge about your faith. Ye are one from another: wed them with the leave of their owners, and give them their dowers, according to what is reasonable: they should be chaste, not lustful, nor taking paramours: when they are taken in wedlock, if they fall into shame, their punishment is half that for free women. This (permission) is for those among you who fear sin; but is better for you that ye practise self-restraint. And Allah is Oft-Forgiving, Most Merciful.

4:25

Points for Contemplation

1. One should select an immaculate spouse for marriage in so far as FAITH and character are concerned. The truth of this aspect is seen viewing the life of married couples having diverse faith and following different standards of the virtue pertaining to character. The problem becomes more pronounced and gets aggravated when their children grow up.

2. One of the objects of marriage is to ensure that humans do not commit sin in their sexual life.

3. One has to be strong enough financially before undertaking marriage. In case one is not financially sound to marry a free believing woman then one may go for such believing woman who is poor yet of sound character because it will not cost much to maintain her at least in initial days of marriage.

4. It is better not to marry in case one cannot financially afford the resultant responsibilities.

5. Punishment for having indulged in minor sex related sins by those who cannot afford to marry or are forced by the circumstances to lead an unmarried life, may be viewed in the light of the last sentence of the above verse i.e. Allah is Oft Forgiving, Most Merciful.

*****

3-4

The woman and the man guilty of adultery or fornication flog each of them with a hundred stripes: let not compassion move you in their case, in a matter prescribed by Allah, if ye believe in Allah and the Last Day: and let a party of the Believers witness their punishment. Let no man guilty of adultery or fornication marry any but a woman similarly guilty, or an Unbeliever: nor let any but such a man or an Unbeliever marry such a woman: to the Believers such a thing is forbidden.

24:2-3

- - - - -

5-6

Marry those among you who are single, or the virtuous ones among your slaves, male or female: if they are in poverty, Allah will give them means out of His grace: for Allah encompasseth all, and He knoweth all things. Let those who find not the wherewithal for marriage keep themselves chaste, until Allah gives them means out of His grace. And if any of your slaves ask for a deed in writing (to enable them to earn their freedom for a certain sum), give them such a deed if ye know any good in them; yea, give them something yourselves out of the means which Allah has given to you. But force not your maids to prostitution when they desire chastity, in order that ye may make a gain in the goods of this life. But if anyone compels them, yet, after such compulsion, is Allah Oft-Forgiving, Most Merciful (to them).

24:32-33

Points for Contemplation. From the above verses of Surah An-Nur (24:2-3 & 32-33) following transpire:-

1. Almighty Allah has ordained very severe and humiliating punishment for those who indulge in illegal sex.

2. Financial soundness of spouse appears to be an important, if not an over-riding, factor in case of marriage.

3. In case one is not financially sound and has to marry then the Qur’an gives the formula of marrying a woman who is single (not belonging to a large family). In such situation expenses are going to be minimal, at least to start with.

4. The Qur’an encourages marrying slave provided she or he is honest. This encouragement is to those who are financially sound and can afford marriage(s). It will help reducing the number of poor from a society and the resultant discomfort and disharmony from the world.

5. Having been unable to achieve financial soundness it is better that one does not marry.

6. Assisting the poor to get into married life is encouraged by Allah so that the society remains on correct moral track.

*****

7-8

And recite what is rehearsed to you in your homes, of the Signs of Allah and His Wisdom: for Allah understands the finest mysteries and is well-acquainted (with them). For Muslim men and women, for believing men and women, for devout men and women, for true men and women, for men and women who are patient and constant, for men and women who humble themselves, for men and women who give in charity, for men and women who fast (and deny themselves), for men and women who guard their chastity, and for men and women who engage much in Allah's praise, for them has Allah prepared forgiveness and great reward.

33:34-35

Point for Contemplation.

1. Forgiveness and great rewards are for those who guard their chastity under all circumstances.

2. Matters of purity, virtue and honour are equally true and applicable both to men and women.

3. Almighty Allah treats men and women as equals in matters of faith, spending life and the reward in the life to come. This in effect covers the whole life cycle.

POINTS FOR ACTION

1. Belief in Allah and financial soundness of man/ woman are desired as basic conditions for entering in to marriage contract. These two aspects are extremely essential for providing well-defined guidelines to lead a successful life in this world. In the absence of these one may not marry for the over all good of the society. Belief in Allah puts the humans on the correct mental or spiritual track for leading a good life. In the event of financial soundness of the new unit of family, the society will get absolved of countless social and domestic irritants/problems resulting from day to day bickering and full of irritants living. Every society and government must, therefore ensure/ provide chances for implementation of these aspects to guarantee peace and prosperity in the world.

2. Marriage is a means to guarantee that society flourishes and humans remain on the right track of morals. It is to be viewed and practiced as such. Society and the governments must support their individuals achieving this by helping acquire financial viability to afford marriage, and by enforcing harsh but essential punishments for offences pertaining to illegal intimate relations.

3. Man and woman are treated as absolute equals in matters pertaining to selecting marriage partner, acquiring/following faith, spending life in this world, and earning good or bad rewards in the life hereafter. Gender equality must be allowed to prevail in the society.

*****

FOURTH SECTION

CONSUMATION

Here are three verses of the Qur’an dealing with the finer and final aspect of husband and wife’s mutual relations pertaining to creation of human life:-

1-2

They ask thee concerning women's courses. Say: They are a hurt and a pollution: so keep away from women in their courses, and do not approach them until they are clean. But when they have purified themselves, ye may approach them in any manner, time, or place ordained for you by Allah. For Allah loves those who turn to Him constantly and He loves those who keep themselves pure and clean. Your wives are as a tilth unto you: so approach your tilth when or how you will; but do some good act for your souls beforehand; and fear Allah, and know that ye are to meet Him (in the Hereafter), and give (these) good tidings to those who believe.

2:222-223

Points for Contemplation

1. Menstrual period provides natural relief to a woman from sex activity. It also helps assessing the biologically ripest period for pregnancy-oriented readiness of wife as proved by modern scientific research. There is a period in each month when human sperms are not able to travel because of the viscosity of female fluids in the path of their journey.

2. Women (legitimately married to you) are described as your fields and there is a legalization to go in as you please. It indicates in the direction of various methods of going to your wife aiming not necessarily at immediate crop because for healthy crops there is a need to give some reasonable respite to your field. Men need to ponder over it seriously in order to plan their family. Wife must also be provided adequate time gap between the end of lactation and the beginning of next pregnancy. This gap could be determined keeping in view the health of wife and/ or your requirement of heirs.

3. Last sentences of above verses [Do good works and fear Allah. Bear in mind that you shall meet Him. Give good news to the believers] need to be pondered over for dispelling certain misconceptions regarding sexual life of husband and wife. In these words is hidden a decent enjoyment of legal sexual life. Readers are requested to spend some time in exercising their mind on this point, more so the element of good news to the believers.

* * * * *

It is He Who created you from a single person, and made his mate of like nature, in order that he might dwell with her (in love). When they are united, she bears a light burden and carries it about (unnoticed). When she grows heavy, they both pray to Allah their Lord, (saying): "If Thou givest us a goodly child, we vow we shall (ever) be grateful."

7:189

Points for Contemplation

1. Creation of mate by Almighty Allah is for comforting the spouse. They must, therefore, find comfort, both mental and physical, in meeting each other. This point indicates in the direction of a full of comfort environment of living and meeting of husband and wife. It also tells of having a reasonable gap between pregnancies so that the wife finds it enjoyably comfortable to go through the process of pregnancy, giving birth, lactation and rearing a child.

2. The method of consummation wherein husband covers his wife is most likely to result in pregnancy. Any other method will probably help avoiding the same. Husband and wife need to ponder over this aspect in greater details for using it to plan their family.

3. Husband should care more for his wife on family way.

*****

POINTS FOR ACTION

1. Careful and repeated study of above verses would teach husband and wife as to how should they approach each other in case they need child or children. These also teach a husband and wife to comprehensively act upon the QURA’NIC methods and ways of delaying pregnancy or following sensible family planning.

2. Wife is termed as your field. Almighty Allah allows you to go to your wife as you please but DO remember the requirements of your field and the quality of the crop that you wish to obtain. Hence, it is husband who is more responsible for sagacious family planning.

3. Above verses also contain many messages and ways of enjoying husband and wife relation while following and remaining within the bounds of the QURA’NIC teachings on the subject. Readers may like to go through these verses again and again to comprehend the message in totality.

4. Those who are learned in the Qur’an and the present day advanced sciences have a special responsibility to educate others in what the Qur’an desires and requires of them on the subject of planning a family.

*****
FIFTH SECTION

CHILD AS HEIR

Almighty Allah is the creator of all life in this universe. Human beings are the best of His creation. Allah has ingrained in the humans the desire for offspring and heir so that life keeps rolling forward. It is the way of prophets to pray for descendants and in these are a number of messages for the humans to plan their families as is evident from the under mentioned nine Qura’nic verses:

There did Zakariya pray to his Lord, saying: "O my Lord! grant unto me from Thee a progeny that is pure for Thou art He that heareth prayer!"

3:38

Points for Contemplation

1. It is Prophet Zakariyyia’s prayer [PBUH] for upright, good, decent, respectable, conscientious, honorable or pure [TAYYAB] descendants. Please note that the prayer is for full of virtue progeny. It implies that children are to be righteous. In case parents do not have the worldly means and/or are not in a position to fulfill this condition, then it would be against the spirit of this Qur’anic verse to pray for or decide to have children. Here it must be remembered that without Allah’s blessings it will not be (even) possible to have, to raise and up bring your children.

2. Allah bestows children. We must, therefore, look after and bring them up worthy of His Grant.

3. Where Allah hears all prayers, it is not necessary that every prayer is answered as we wish.

4. Believers do turn to Almighty Allah in ALL affairs. This ensures peace of mind and making yourselves more eligible for Allah’s help and blessings.

*****

Wealth and sons are allurements of the life of this world; but the things that endure, Good Deeds, are best in the sight of thy Lord, as rewards, and best as (the foundation for) hopes.

18:46

Points for Contemplation

1. Wealth and children are the ornament of this life. One must, therefore, ensure that these are obtained lawfully and well kept so that one does not feel embarrassed while displaying the same.

2. Allah grades deeds of lasting merit higher than the wealth and children in so far as reward and hope are concerned. It is so, because one is in absolute control of the deeds s/he performs while it is difficult to be hundred percent sure of the correctness of deeds of children and those related with wealth. This goes to solidify the viewpoint that where one should strive for ornament of this life, one has to be extra careful about their well keeping.

*****

3-6

Behold! he cried to his Lord in secret, Praying: "O my Lord! infirm indeed are my bones, and the hair of my head doth glisten with grey: but never am I unblest, O my Lord, in my prayer to Thee! "Now I fear (what) my relatives (and colleagues) (will do) after me: but my wife is barren: so give me an heir as from Thyself, "(One that) will (truly) represent me, and represent the posterity of Jacob; and make him, O my Lord! one with whom Thou art well pleased!"

19:3-6

Points for Contemplation

1. Relatives, cousins, colleagues or kinsfolk [MAWAALE] are not considered likely to continue the task, you have undertaken, in a befitting manner. Therefore, the prayer for a son, successor or heir who finds grace, elegance, kindness, blessing and dignity with Lord.

2. Prayer should be preambled and may be offered in secret if it pertains to self-only.

3. Heir is to look after heritage of father and forefathers. Hence, the importance of bringing up the scion in a manner worthy of the task ahead.

*****

And (remember) Zakariya, when he cried to his Lord: "O my Lord! leave me not without offspring, though Thou art the best of inheritors."

21:89

Points for Contemplation

1. It is the way of prophets to pray for heir and it is certainly a guide for the followers to emulate.

2. Remaining childless is not a desirable state. In case each one remains without children then human life on this planet would cease to exist one day.

3. Loyalty, obedience and submission to Allah are the essence of a believer’s life and a very basic requirement for acceptance of payers.

* * * * *

8-9

Until the Gog and Magog (people) are let through (their barrier), and they swiftly swarm from every hill. Then will the True Promise draw nigh (of fulfilment): then behold! the eyes of the Unbelievers will fixedly stare in horror: "Ah! Woe to us! we were indeed heedless of this; nay, we truly did wrong!"

21:96-97

Points for Contemplation

1. Gog and Magog like state of population is not a healthy state of affairs. It may result in catastrophe for the humans as is proved through the pages of history.

2. Like everything else, it is good to be mindful of population planning matters. Planning in this field, both at individual and government level, is absolutely essential for the good of humans. Otherwise you will only repent for the wrongs done in this regard. Here lies the responsibility of every individual and of any government in this very vital field of human welfare.

3. Believers are not (even) expected to be heedless in family planning matters as in this verse Allah is addressing the unbelievers only. It could also mean that in case you prove to be neglectful in family planning matters and attain the stage like that of Gog and Magog, you are going to be unbeliever.

*****

POINTS FOR ACTION

1. Desire of having heir is qualified with the required standard of successor. The descendant should be upright, good or pure [TAYYAB], meaning thereby that the heir has to be like the best, if not the best. So, while praying for inheritor(s) or deciding to go in for inheritors, keep in mind that you prove worthy of Allah’s blessing by being able to bring them up in a befitting manner.

2. Children are the ornaments of this life. These should be possessed lawfully and well kept so that one feels pride in displaying the same.

3. Deeds of lasting merit are graded higher than having offspring. Progeny should, therefore, never become an obstacle in performing actions of continuing excellence.

4. Heirs are to look after both, material and spiritual heritage of father and forefathers. Ensure their bringing up in a befitting manner. The desire of descendants must not result in having a herd of Gog and Magog like children who cannot be brought up to be able to look after the heritage in true consciousness of the word.

5. Matters of population planning must be addressed to seriously by all, especially the government. In it lies the actual and real welfare of humans and the state.

*****
SIXTH SECTION

CHILDREN – GIVING SUCK TO

Here are three Qura’nic verses pertaining to this aspect and throwing ample light on the subject of family planning:-

The mothers shall give suck to their offspring for two whole years, if the father desires to complete the term. But he shall bear the cost of their food and clothing on equitable terms. No soul shall have a burden laid on it greater than it can bear. No mother shall be treated unfairly on account of her child. Nor father on account of his child, and heir shall be chargeable in the same way, if they both decide on weaning, by mutual consent, and after due consultation, there is no blame on them. If ye decide on a foster-mother for your offspring there is no blame on you, provided ye pay (the mother) what ye offered, on equitable terms. But fear Allah and know that Allah sees well what ye do.

2:233

Points for Contemplation

1. Above verse partly pertains to a situation where mother of a child has been divorced. It, however, could be general in scope as well.

2. Giving suck by a mother is for two whole years (twenty-four months). Health of the child depends on this.

3. Having nurse for children is allowed and is indicative of the fact that reasonably sound financial position of the couple is desirable before they decide to become parents.

*****

And We have enjoined on man (To be good) to his parents: in travail upon travail did his mother bear him, and in years twain was his weaning: (hear the command), "Show gratitude to Me and to thy parents: to Me is (thy final) Goal.

31:14

Points for Contemplation

1. Minimum period of giving suck to a child is two years.

2. Bearing a child results in weakness of woman. It is, therefore essential to see to it that health of wife is taken in to consideration before praying and/ or trying for more kids.

3. Almighty Allah and parents are to be thanked for providing suck to a child. This speaks of the sanctity and importance of the task of providing suck.

4. Last sentence of the above verse indicates in the direction that children should not resort to being unkind in case their parents (in old age) do not do as the children expect, and must bear in mind that ‘To Me is (thy final) Goal.

*****

We have enjoined on man kindness to his parents: in pain did his mother bear him, and in pain did she give him birth. The carrying of the (child) to his weaning is (a period of) thirty months. At length, when he reaches the age of full strength and attains forty years, he says: "O my Lord! grant me that I may be grateful for Thy favour which Thou hast bestowed upon me, and upon both my parents, and that I may work righteousness such as Thou mayest approve; and be gracious to me in my issue. Truly have I turned to Thee and truly do I bow (to Thee) in Islam."

46:15

Points for Contemplation

1. Period of pregnancy and giving suck to a child is (minimum) thirty months. It implies that a minimum period of childbearing pregnancy is SIX months because that of giving suck to a child is TWENTY-FOUR months.

2. Pains suffered by a woman in bearing and rearing a child are not to be forgotten while going in for more kids.

3. Prayer for good descendants in fortieth year of manhood may possibly be indicating that one should resort to having children once well established economically. It does not mean that one should marry at this age but it indicates that one may resort to pregnancy-oriented consummation when well established economically.

4. It is husband and not the wife who is responsible for family planning. In fact she can do little. Hence all efforts in the field of family planning must be focused on husbands and not only on wives.

POINTS FOR ACTION

1. Contemplating on above verses, one finds that there has to be a minimum period of TWO YEARS between childbirth and the beginning of next pregnancy because during lactation, pregnancy is unhealthy and undesirable. In accordance with this formula gap between the births of two children should be minimum 30-33 months (24 months of lactation and 6-9 months of pregnancy).

2. Wife undergoes tremendous pains and extreme sufferings while producing and rearing a child. This aspect in the backdrop of wife’s health must be kept in mind when deciding on number of children.

3. A man should try having children when he is well established economically. Before that he may marry but should not resort to having children.

4. In order to realize above Qur’anic teachings, there is a requirement of educating and helping people on these aspects. Responsibilities for all this lay on every prudent individual and the caring and concerned Government.

*****

SEVENTH SECTION

CONCLUSION

Before concluding, let us have a look at a few more Qur’anic verses containing comprehensive instructions for guaranteed success not only in this world but also in the life hereafter:

1-11

The Believers must (eventually) win through, Those who humble themselves in their prayers; Who avoid vain talk; Who are active in deeds of charity; Who abstain from sex; Except with those joined to them in the marriage bond, or (the captives) whom their right hands possess, for (in their case) they are free from blame, But those whose desires exceed those limits are transgressors, Those who faithfully observe their trusts and their covenants; And who (strictly) guard their prayers; These will be the heirs, Who will inherit Paradise: they will dwell therein (forever).

23:1-11

- - - - -

12-13

Say to the believing men that they should lower their gaze and guard their modesty: that will make for greater purity for them: and Allah is well acquainted with all that they do. And say to the believing women that they should lower their gaze and guard their modesty; that they should not display their beauty and ornaments except what (must ordinarily) appear thereof; that they should draw their veils over their bosoms and not display their beauty except to their husbands, their fathers, their husbands' fathers, their sons, their husbands' sons, their brothers or their brothers' sons, or their sisters' sons, or their women, or the slaves whom their right hands possess, or male servants free of physical needs, or small children who have no sense of the shame of sex; and that they should not strike their feet in order to draw attention to their hidden ornaments. And O ye Believers! turn ye all together towards Allah, that ye may attain Bliss.

24:30-31

Above verses (of Surahs 23&24), and the Qura’nic concept of planning a family outlined in the above pages, if translated in to action in a society, would certainly help making this world all pleasure. It will ensure success in the life to come as well.

I will not dilate further on the subject and would only request my readers to go through the QURA’NIC verses often to comprehend the wisdom of the teachings of the Qur’an on the subject. It will make them eligible for Allah’s countless favours still held back waiting that we may start following the right path taught by Him. In doing so, I am sure, the readers would also find the answer to the last question mentioned in the beginning of the booklet. Qura’nic policy on family planning could be summarized in the following five points:-

Dust and clay, and human sperms and ovum are a beginning stage of life. Yet these cannot be termed as humans. The Qura’nic injunctions pertaining to infanticide are, therefore, NOT relevant for human sperms and ovum. These, however, become relevant at a stage when a being is created in the womb of mother. Following the message of Verse 189 of Surah 7 and Verse 6 of Surah 22, a husband and wife can delay pregnancy in case they so need and/ or desire.

Woman undergoes tremendous pains and extreme sufferings during pregnancy, in the process of producing and finally rearing a child. Health of wife and also the children should be an over riding factor when deciding on having a (or another) child. Contemplating on various QURA’NIC verses, one finds that there has to be a minimum period of TWO YEARS between childbirth and the beginning of next pregnancy. In accordance with this formula, gap between the births of two children should be minimum 30-33 months (24 months of lactation and 6-9 months of pregnancy).

Financial viability of at least one out of the couple is the desire of Almighty Allah before they enter in to a marriage contract. Husband and wife should plan having children keeping in mind their economic condition to meet the needs of their children so that they are brought up to the standard of the supreme creation as desired by Almighty Allah.

Man indulging in extramarital sex to escape responsibility for care and bringing up of child succeeds in his nefarious desire mostly when he is able to exploit a woman. In case one could compute the losses (moral and resultant material ones) in such a background, it would be concluded that indulging in foul sin costs much more to a society than nurturing of children. Women have a special and significant role in ensuring that society remains on correct track of morals. This role of women in a society should not only be recognized but they should also be helped in its performance by ensuring that they remain healthy, get what is due to them (in inheritance as well), and face no discrimination in the society. MEN HAVE THE DOMINANT ROLE in planning their family; therefore they must be targeted in any family planning program to ensure real and meaningful success.

Life can be comfortable, enjoyable and worth living for all in a society if every couple ensures that their progeny at no stage becomes an obstacle for them in performing deeds of lasting merit. This will ensure peace in this world and the real success in the life to come. The desire of having descendants must never result in a Gog and Magog like situation where they cannot be brought up to be able to look after the heritage of father and the forefathers in true sense.

With the above conclusions that can be summarized in a catch sentence as “DO WOMEN FIND MEN LOVING?” I close the subject requesting my worthy readers to ponder over the Qur’anic verses again and again in the light of the broader and modern knowledge of contemporary sciences at their disposal. This will help spending a happy life in this world as well as in the world hereafter. They are further requested to encourage others to grasp the essentials of the Qura’nic family planning to better the life and living on earth.

Family Planning

CONCEPT OF

CREATION OF LIFE

AND

POINTS FOR ACTION

“One of the Conveniences of life is to have Fewer Children”

Imam Ali (a.s)

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