Keywords = sexual deviance
Psychology of Women and Family

Strategies of Surah An-Nur in Institutionalizing Sexual Chastity in a Faith-Based Society

Volume 7, Issue 3, Autumn 2025, Pages 19-33

https://doi.org/10.22034/jwir.2025.728074

Khadijeh Ahmadi Beighash, Maryam Haji Kazem

Abstract Chastity, as an internal force that restrains the self from indecent behaviors, has always been emphasized in Islam. The Almighty God, through a gradual presentation of comprehensive policies, has promoted, stabilized, and institutionalized chaste living within the Islamic society. While the concept of chastity in its various dimensions is discussed in Meccan surahs, the reinforcement and implementation of sexual chastity laws have been deferred to the Medinan period—under circumstances where an Islamic government is established.This study seeks to answer the question: What strategies does the Medinan Surah An-Nur employ to institutionalize sexual chastity within a faith-based community? Through a descriptive-analytical approach and based on library resources, the study reveals that in the context of an established Islamic society, God begins with preventive rulings against sexual deviance—such as harsh punishment for adulterers and strict evidentiary standards, prohibition of illicit glances, encouragement of marriage, and emphasis on youth chastity.Furthermore, the issue of hijab is introduced as part of cultivating a spirit of modesty. To consolidate sexual chastity within both the familial and social spheres, the surah proposes adherence to divine chastity rulings, respect for private boundaries in the family (especially regarding parents), overcoming carnal desires, cultivating fear and awe of God, allowing divine rulings to illuminate the hearts of believers, and complete obedience to God and His Messenger. These strategies aim to embed chastity within the hearts of the faithful—something only achievable through safeguarding the boundaries between mahram and non-mahram, the family unit, parents, and the Prophet Muhammad.