Whether exploring the thorny issues of wives’ sexual duties, divorce, homosexuality, or sex outside marriage, discussions of sexual ethics and Islam often spark heated conflict rather than reasoned argument. In this updated edition of her ground- breaking work, feminist Muslim scholar Dr Kecia Ali expands upon her original analyses, widening their scope and enriching contemporary debate. Lucid and carefully constructed, this volume asks how one can determine what makes sex lawful and ethical in the eyes of God.

Drawing on both revealed and interpretative Muslim texts, Ali critiques medieval and contemporary commentators alike to produce a balanced and comprehensive study of a subject both sensitive and urgent, making this an invaluable resource for students, scholars and interested readers. It does not attempt to have the final word on anything but rather aims to make it possible for Muslims to discuss more thoughtfully the crucial issues of our time.