A love bite, or hickey, is considered haram (forbidden) in Islam outside of marriage. This is because any physical intimacy, including kissing and touching, is prohibited before marriage as it's considered a form of zina (unlawful sexual activity). However, within the bounds of a legal marriage, such actions are permissible, provided they don't cause harm.
Islamic Perspective on Physical Intimacy
- Before Marriage: Sexual, lustful, and affectionate actions such as kissing, touching, and staring are haram in Islam before marriage. These acts are considered aspects of zina, which can lead to the actual act of zina. Loving someone is not a sin, however, expressing that love physically before marriage is. [Source: What does Islam say about relationships before marriage? 14-Aug-2024]
- After Marriage: Within marriage, physical intimacy, including actions that might result in a love bite, is generally permitted. The key is mutual consent and avoiding any actions that cause harm or pain. [Source: Different types of foreplay with ones wife. - IslamQA] A love bite between a husband and wife is halal (permitted), as long as it doesn't cause significant physical harm. [Source: Is it Haram to Kiss Before Marriage in Islam? | by Md Fakharuddin]
- Harmful Actions: Regardless of marital status, causing physical harm through a love bite or any other intimate act is unacceptable.
Clarification and Nuances
Several sources mention that the permissibility hinges on the context and the intention behind the act. The emphasis remains on avoiding any action that could lead to zina or cause physical harm.
The permissibility of actions such as kissing and love bites is heavily debated amongst various schools of thought within Islam, and individual interpretations vary. This answer reflects the general consensus based on numerous credible sources.
