1

THE

QURA’NIC
CONCEPT OF
CREATION OF LIFE
AND

FAMILY PLANNING

By
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
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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
AS

DESIRED

BY

ALLAH [SWT]
 3

TABLE OF CONTENTS

Reference Brief Contents Page

Contents 3-5
Preface 6
Section-1 8
Creation of Life and Planning a Family
22:5-6  Stages of creation of a human being 8
 A way for a husband and wife
23:12-14 Creation of the first and subsequent humans 9
2:21-22 Object of creating humans and arrangements for 10
sustenance
4:1 Worship the Guardian Lord and respect the 10
wombs that bore you
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:- 12
• The object of creation and its achievement.
• Human creation from dust or clay and the sperm and
ovum.

Section-2 13
Child Killing
6:137 Natural depth of desire of having and bringing 13
up children
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: 18
• 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.

Section-3 19
Chastity and Marriage
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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: 23
• 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.

Section-4 24
Consummation
2:222-223  Women’s courses 24
 Wife is your field
7:189 Creation of mate for comforting the spouse 25
Points for action: 26
• A reasonable gap between pregnancies.
• Methods of consummation.
• Care of wife on family way.

Section-5 27
Child As Heir
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: 30
• 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

Section-6 31
Children - Giving Suck to
2:233  Giving suck by mother for two years 31
 Employing nurse for child
31:14  Health of mother 32
 Importance of providing suck by mother
46:15 Pregnancy and weaning – 30 months 32
Points for action: 33
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• 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.

Section-7 34
Conclusion
23:1-11 Abstain from illegal sex 34
24:30-31 Men and women to guard their modesty 35
Nahjul Balagha One of the conveniences of life is to have less 37
children.

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]
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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
 7

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
Sarfaraz Hussain Tamgha-i-Imtiaz (Military)
Saadaat House, Lake View Park, Malpur, 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
 8

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
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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
 10

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
-----
8

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
-----
9

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
 11

-----
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
 12

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
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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:-
1

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.
*****
2
 14

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.

*****
3

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
 15

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
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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.

*****
11

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.
 17

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
 18

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

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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:-
1

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.

*****

2
 20

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
 21

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:-
 22

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.
 23

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
 24

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
 25

element of good news to the believers.

*****
3

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

 26

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.

*****
 27

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:
1

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.

*****
2

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
 28

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.

*****

7
 29

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.

*****
 30

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.

*****
 31

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:-
1

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.

*****
 32

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.

*****
3

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

 33

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.

*****
 34

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
 35

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:-
 36

D ust 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.
M an 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.
L ife 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
 37

spending a happy life in this world as well as in the world hereafter. They should also
encourage others to grasp the essentials of the Qura’nic family planning to better the
life and living on earth.

“One of the Conveniences Of life is to

have Less Children”
Imam Ali (a.s)