Question:
I just have a small concern about bad dreams at night which lead to unintentional sex imagination. This just happens. Is this a sin?
Assalamu Alaikum wa rahmatullahi wa Barakatuh
Thank you for your question.
Sinful thoughts in the mind can be a result of a psychological sickness, a stressful situation or due to whispers from the devil (shaytan).
Once the thoughts enter your mind, you should try to ward them off by thinking of positive things. Do not follow up the evil thoughts. Busy your mind with positive and better thoughts. Be punctual in doing dhikr and reciting Quran. Try to remain in wudu.
Know that you will not be punished for random or evil thoughts that enter the mind.
“Allah overlooks the [inappropriate] thoughts of the nafs (base self) for my community, as long as they do not discuss it with others or act upon it.” (Ṣaḥiḥ Bukhari)
We pray that Allah provide relief and comfort in your situation.
And Allah knows best.
Answered by Shaykh Yusuf Badat
Hadith of the Day Imam
Imam of the Islamic Foundation of Toronto and Director of Mathabah Institute
