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For years now, the Muslim community has considered any meaningful discussion of the issue of same-sex relationships, beyond the simple condemnation of the act, as taboo. This has happened as the international community has become more tolerant, even accepting, of this type of sexual preference.  Recently, countries such as Belgium, the Netherlands and now Canada and Spain have issued legislations granting same-sex couples the right to have their relationships legalized thus granting them the same legal obligations and rights as their heterosexual counterparts.  The Anglican church has also appointed two openly gay men to office.

In light of these changes, and the fact that we today live as part of a world community that is not only easily accessible, but also has come to impact our lives both positively and negatively with influences from the different cultures, belief systems and ethical codes contained in this new form of inter-civilizational existence, it becomes imperative that we both rationally and openly discuss the issue of same-sex relationships and how the Muslim community should tackle the issue in the light of the Qur’an and the Prophetic teachings.

• Homosexuality in a Changing World: Are We Being Misinformed?

IslamOnline’s Health & Science editor goes in depth on the scientific bases of homosexuality in addition to the mental and health effects of the practice. The work includes sections on related scientific research, development of sexual orientation, homosexuality in psychiatry, therapy and diseases related to it.

• Wanting to remove the label of homosexuality

Hwaa Irfan has deep insights into whether homosexuality is a sickness or a sin? What should one do to get rid of homosexuality? Is there hope for such persons?

• Homosexuality from an Islamic Stand

In this introductory article, Reda Bedeir outlines the Islamic perspective on homosexuality and the societal problems that it carries with it.

• Liberal Interpretations of Islam

Amir Ali explains that homosexuality cannot be considered a viable option within the Islamic spectrum, rather it has been unanimously reproached by conservative and "liberal" minded Muslims alike.

• Islamic Manners in Dealing with Homosexuals

Dr. Muzammil Siddiqi shows that homosexuality is sinful and is called “al-Fahsha’”. He also sheds some light on this serious phenomenon and explains how Muslims should treat homosexuals.

• Islam's Stand on Homosexual Organizations

What is Islam’s stand regarding homosexuality? Is it true that some Muslim scholars do not view deviant sexual acts as punishable crimes? Read what Dr. Taha Jaber Al-`Alwani says in this regard.

• Death Fall as Punishment for Homosexuality

Here, some prominent Muslim scholars shed light on the punishment of homosexuals as prescribed by Islam and whether or not it is tantamount to adultery.

• How to Give Up Homosexuality

These are some important tips to help a homosexual give up this abnormal and destructive conduct as seen by Sheikh Ahmad Kutty, the prominent Muslim scholar.

• Homosexuality and Lesbianism: Sexual Perversions

Islam looks at homosexuality and lesbianism as sexual perversions. In this fatwa, a group of prominent Muslim scholars deal thoroughly with this serious issue.

• A Homosexual Friend

Amani Aboul Fadl Farag advises a prospective convert about her relationship with a homosexual friend and the sympathetic approach she should take to help treat his problem.

• Join IOL’s Discussion forum on Homosexuality

IslamOnline.net invites its readers to provide their feedback on what they’ve read about the issue on the website.