Touching one's private parts during Ramadan is not automatically haram (forbidden), but it depends heavily on the intention and action. Accidental or unintentional touching for hygiene or to alleviate an itch is generally permissible. However, any touching with sexual intent or leading to arousal or ejaculation breaks the fast and is considered haram.
Different Scenarios and Their Rulings
-
Accidental Touching: Brief, unintentional touching, such as scratching an itch or adjusting clothing, is generally not considered haram. Sources like this Reddit discussion highlight differing opinions but emphasize that unintentional touching is not a major issue.
-
Intentional Touching with Non-Sexual Intent: Touching for hygiene purposes, such as cleaning, is permissible as long as it doesn't lead to arousal.
-
Intentional Touching with Sexual Intent (Masturbation): This is explicitly haram, irrespective of the time of year. Multiple sources, including this Islam Stack Exchange question and this MuslimCentral article, clarify that masturbation is forbidden.
-
Touching during Intimacy with a Spouse: Hugging, kissing, and intimate touching are permitted during fasting hours as long as they do not lead to ejaculation or intercourse. This is explicitly stated in the provided reference: "Hugging, kissing and intimate touching is permitted during fasting hours - as long as it does not lead to ejaculation or intercourse." However, as noted on this Quora thread, even affectionate touching should be approached cautiously to avoid unintended arousal.
Conclusion
The permissibility of touching one's private parts during Ramadan hinges on the intention and whether it leads to sexual arousal or ejaculation. Accidental or necessary touching is generally acceptable, but intentional actions leading to sexual stimulation are haram.
