Is it permissible for a man to have sexual relations with his wife when he has no sexual desire?

General Chapter

Al-Mughni

Book of the Wedding Feast

Book 37 · Issue 1 · Bab 1

Open in Qurani

Primary text

It is permissible for a man to have relations with his wife even if he has no desire for her, with the intention of seeking reward ('ihtisab') for having children. This ruling is supported by the narration from Abu Dharr, where the Messenger of Allah, peace be upon him, stated that intimacy with one's wife is charity (sadaqah). When asked if one is rewarded even if one satisfies their desire, the Prophet responded by asking if placing one's sexual drive in an illicit place would incur sin, to which the answer was yes. He then asked if they would not seek reward for good deeds. This act is also permissible as it is a means to procreation, preserving one's chastity and the chastity of his wife, lowering the gaze, and achieving tranquility of the soul, or some of these objectives.