Does Islam Permit Anal Sex (Tigo)? A Biblical and Qur’anic Ethical and Medical Examination
By Dr. Maxwell Shimba
Max Shimba Ministries Org
Abstract
This article investigates the controversial subject of anal sex (commonly referred to in Swahili as tigo) within Islamic and Christian frameworks. Using both scriptural analysis and medical findings, the study aims to shed light on whether such a practice is condoned in either the Qur’an or the Bible and what implications arise for individuals who engage in it. Particular attention is given to the medical risks for women, the ethical contradictions between Islamic and Christian teachings, and the spiritual consequences of engaging in acts deemed unnatural.
Introduction
A concerned individual named Michael recently posed a troubling dilemma: his Muslim wife, unhappy in their marital intimacy, confessed that she had previously engaged in anal intercourse with a former partner and wished to return to him unless her current husband agreed to fulfill that specific sexual desire. Michael, though not yet a Christian, was aware that his Christian upbringing prohibited such acts. His concern centers around whether Islam truly permits anal sex, and what the Bible and Qur’an say about it.
This article aims to address the following fundamental questions:
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Does Islam permit anal intercourse?
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What are the health implications of anal sex, particularly for women?
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What do the Bible and the Qur’an teach on this issue?
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Is there a spiritual or moral consequence for either approving or rejecting the act?
I. Qur'anic Perspective on Anal Intercourse
1. Qur'an 2:222–223
The Qur'an states:
“They ask you concerning menstruation. Say: It is a harm, so keep away from women during menstruation... Your wives are a tilth for you, so go to your tilth when and how you will...”
(Qur'an 2:222–223)
While this passage appears metaphorical, various Islamic scholars and Hadiths have interpreted the phrase “go to your tilth as you will” as permitting various forms of sexual expression. However, the interpretation is contested.
2. Classical Islamic Interpretations
According to Ad-Durr al-Manthur (vol. 1, p. 474) and Fath al-Bari (vol. 8, pp. 38–39), a narration by Naafi reports that Abdullah ibn Umar believed this verse referred to anal intercourse. This view has stirred debate within the Islamic world, with some scholars accepting it and others strictly condemning it as haram (forbidden).
II. Christian (Biblical) Perspective
The Bible speaks clearly against unnatural sexual acts, not only between men and animals but also acts deviating from natural intercourse between husband and wife.
1. Leviticus 20:13–16
“If a man lies with a male as with a woman, both of them have committed an abomination... If a man marries a woman and her mother, it is depravity... If a man has sexual relations with an animal, he must be put to death...”
These scriptures reveal that unnatural sexual acts, including same-sex relations and bestiality, are considered abominations before God. Although not explicitly addressing anal sex within marriage, the broader biblical ethic upholds sexual purity and natural order as defined in Genesis (2:24).
III. Medical and Psychological Implications
Medical researchers have raised several concerns about anal intercourse, particularly for women:
1. Damage During Childbirth
Women who regularly engage in anal sex may experience weakened anal sphincter muscles, resulting in incontinence during labor.
2. Increased Risk of Colon Cancer
Persistent trauma and irritation of the rectal area can lead to chronic inflammation, increasing the risk of colon cancer.
3. Loss of Sphincter Control
With age and repeated exposure, women may lose control over bowel movements due to weakened sphincter muscles.
4. Death of the Child During Labor
Due to misaligned pressure and anatomy disruption, a child’s oxygen flow may be cut during birth as a result of a mother’s damaged pelvic muscles.
These risks highlight why many women—especially those who report having experienced this practice in Islamic-majority settings—suffer long-term physical and psychological harm.
IV. Ethical and Spiritual Considerations
The Bible teaches that:
“My people are destroyed for lack of knowledge.” (Hosea 4:6)
“You are in error because you do not know the Scriptures or the power of God.” (Matthew 22:29)
From a Christian worldview, sexual behavior is not merely physical but deeply spiritual. Acts against natural design violate the Creator’s intention and bring both physical and spiritual consequences. Thus, if a holy book permits practices that result in moral decay and physical damage, its divine origin must be questioned.
V. Comparative Theological Reflection
Scripture | Permits Anal Intercourse? | Spiritual Verdict |
---|---|---|
Qur’an | Interpreted by some as Yes | Ethically ambiguous |
Bible | No (Implicitly and morally) | Explicitly condemned |
Given the contradictory positions, one must ask: Can a divine book contradict the natural, physical, and moral order established by the Creator? If so, can such a book genuinely be from the true and holy God?
Conclusion
Anal sex (Tigo) is both physically harmful and spiritually destructive. The Qur’an, through some interpretations, permits it, leading to widespread normalization among certain groups. The Bible, on the other hand, upholds the sanctity and naturalness of sexual intimacy within marriage, warning against deviations.
Final Appeal
To all who desire truth, health, and spiritual clarity: Seek Jesus, the Way, the Truth, and the Life. (John 14:6)
Recommendations
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For Christians: Do not compromise spiritual convictions for the sake of physical intimacy.
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For Muslims: Reexamine your scriptures and consult the Bible as the final authority of divine morality.
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For all: Let us uphold both physical health and spiritual integrity in our relationships.
Contact & Ministry
Max Shimba Ministries Org
Proclaiming the Truth in Love and Boldness
[Visit us for more: www.maxshimbaministries.org]
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