Celibacy

Celibacy was introduced into Christianity with the good intention of self discipline and rising above the calls of the flesh. Islam deals with natural instincts by controling them but not by their denial. Because it is against nature, history tells us of the betrayal of celibacy by some monks and nuns in earlier times, leading to illicit sexual relations or sexual perversion. In a general theme of praise to christians, the Quran refers to the matter of celibacy stating that it was not decreed by God:

"Then in their wake (referring to Abraham and Noah) we followed them up with (others of) Our apostles; We sent after them Jesus the son of Maty, and bestowed on him the Gospel; and We ordained in the hearts of those who followed him compassion and mercy: but the celibacy (and monasticism) which they invented for themselves, We did not prescribe for them. (We commanded) only the seeking for the good pleasure of God. And they did not regard it as they should have done." (57:27)

Indeed modern times are witnessing a number of celibate clergy in the United States of America giving away celibacy and getting married, in the face of the objecting Church. At the time of prophet Moharnmad peace be upon him, three muslim men enquired about the worship of the prophet. Finding that it was not as much as they had expected, they said: and who are we in comparison with the prophet who was blessed with God's forgiveness of all his trespasses. One of them decided to stay up all night in prayer, the second to make fasting everyday for good, and the third to remain celibate and never to marry. When he knew about them the prophet rebuked them saying:
"I am indeed the most fearful of God and mindful of Him, but I do not fast continuously, I pray (part of the night) and sleep, and I am married." (Bukhari and Muslim) On another occasion the prophet said:

"God has replaced to us the celibacy of the christians with this truthful religion." (Tabarani)

This relation between man and woman is considered by God as one of His signs and blessings:

"Amongst His signs is that He created consorts for you from amongst you, so that you may find tranquility with them, and (He) set love and compassion between you. Verily in this are signs for people who reflect. .." (30:21)