Question: Can I ask a doctor whether the baby in the womb is a boy or a girl, and is there any sin in doing so?
Answer: There is no harm or sin in asking the doctor whether the baby in the womb is a boy or a girl. However, it should be understood that the doctor only provides an estimate based on medical tools, so it cannot be considered definitive knowledge. Sometimes the doctor says one thing, and the outcome is different.
From a precautionary standpoint, it is better not to seek knowledge of the baby’s gender. This is because when people find out, they often start overthinking about the future. In many cases, upon discovering that the baby is a girl, people contemplate abortion. This is why, in many places, it is legally forbidden to find out the baby’s gender, as most people who discover they are expecting a girl tend to consider terminating the pregnancy. Therefore, the better and more virtuous approach is to avoid finding out the gender. Whatever is in the womb will become apparent in due time, and Allah knows best what is beneficial for us. Whatever He gives will be good for us.
Respondent: Sheikh Maqbool Ahmed Salafi Hafizahullah
Jeddah Dawah Center, Saudi Arabia
Interpreter: Hasan Fuzail
A husband called his wife 'sister.' Does this break the marriage? This article explains the Islamic concept of Zihar, its… Read More
A woman, in a moment of distress, strikes her abdomen during pregnancy, resulting in a stillbirth. What does Islam say… Read More
Does stepping out trigger divorce in Islam? Learn the rules Read More
Confused about animal sacrifice in Islam? Learn Sharia rules for cows, sheep, and more. Read More
Learn why spitting in mosques is strictly forbidden in Islam, with insights from the Prophet's teachings Read More
Unsure about praying Salah on a chair? Get clarity on Islamic rulings for various situations, from illness to physical constraints Read More