Unit 3.7 Boys
Love at first sight? Ethics of desire (Boys)
Our Muslim youth are growing up in an environment where explicit content in various formats is ubiquitous. Educators and parents see the confusion, discomfort, and sometimes shame they experience when exposed to this content. This unit takes students through three chapters that explore the nature of sexual desires in Islam and help students recognize the dignity and true intended purpose of their desires, how to manage them responsibly, and how to navigate an environment saturated with sexual imagery. The ultimate goal of this unit is to reorient students toward a sound understanding of human desires through instruction grounded in Islam’s theological and ethical principles. Note: We recognize that addressing sexual desires in an Islamic framework can be sensitive. This unit is designed to be taught in gender-segregated environments. We encourage educators to thoroughly review all materials in this unit beforehand to ensure their students are developmentally and emotionally prepared for these discussions.
Introduction
What are sexual desires in Islam?
This chapter introduces sexual desires as a normal, God-given part of being human. Students learn that desires aren’t sinful or shameful and what matters is how we act on them. By clarifying the line between feelings and actions, students develop a healthier, faith-based perspective that replaces negative forms of shame with responsibility and self-acceptance.
Lesson 1 : Defining sexual desires ın Islam
This lesson explores the nature of sexual desires, showing that they are natural, fleeting, and often beyond our control. They end this lesson with a creative project building awareness of their own lived experiences.
Lesson plan
Slides
Worksheets
Student companion
Lesson 2 : What are we accountable for?
This lesson introduces accountability (taklif) in Islam and the difference between desires and deliberate actions. Through engaging examples and a clear flowchart, students learn they’re not equal to their desires but are responsible for how they choose to act on them.
Lesson plan
Slides
Worksheets
Student companion
Feedback
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