Arabic: تغييرالجنس في ضوءالشريعةالإسلامية

Gender Reassignment in the Light of Islamic Sharia

Abstract

This research examines the issue of gender reassignment in the light of Islamic Sharia, addressing one of the most controversial contemporary medical and ethical issues. The study clarifies the concept of gender change and distinguishes it from gender correction in cases of congenital abnormalities such as ambiguous genitalia (khunthamushkil). It explores the medical, psychological, social, and legal dimensions of gender reassignment and analyzes its causes, including psychological disorders, environmental influences, social pressures, behavioral motivations, and economic factors. The research investigates the Islamic legal ruling on gender reassignment through evidence from the Qur’an, Sunnah, juristic principles, and the objectives of Sharia (Maqasid al-Sharia). It concludes that changing the gender of a biologically normal person is prohibited because it constitutes an alteration of Allah’s creation, contradicts human nature (fitrah), and leads to significant religious and social consequences. In contrast, corrective procedures for individuals with congenital sexual ambiguity are permissible, as they are considered medical treatment aimed at revealing and restoring the person’s true biological sex rather than altering it. The study further reviews the opinions of contemporary scholars and Islamic juristic councils, highlighting their broad agreement on the prohibition of elective gender reassignment and the permissibility of medically necessary gender correction. Ultimately, the research emphasizes the importance of preserving human fitrah, protecting the objectives of Islamic law, and maintaining social and family stability while addressing such cases with appropriate medical and juristic guidance.