Genetic Engineering and Gene Editing in Islam are often described as a double-edged weapon. On one side, it offers hope for curing genetic diseases, improving crops, and reducing human suffering. On the other hand, it raises serious ethical, religious, and social risks.
The genetic engineering and gene editing in Islam is genetic engineering haram in Islam?
In the modern era, genetic engineering and gene editing have transformed the fields of medicine, agriculture, and biotechnology. However, these scientific breakthroughs also raise deep questions about faith, morality, and human limits.
Understanding gene editing and its goals (CRISPR technology)
Gene editing, especially with CRISPR technology, allows scientists to modify the DNA of humans, animals, and plants. In addition, its medical purpose is to treat or prevent genetic diseases, while its agricultural goal is to create crops more resistant to drought, pests, and diseases. Many ask, Is genetic engineering ethical? The answer depends on intention and purpose. Islam encourages scientific advancement when it serves humanity and does not contradict divine creation.
Does gene manipulation violate God’s creation?
The Qur’an warns against unjustified alteration of creation:
Surah Ya-Sin (36:36)
“Glory be to Him who created all the pairs from what the earth grows, from themselves, and from that which they do not know.”
This verse reminds us of the divine balance and perfection in creation. Interfering with it for vanity or power contradicts this harmony. However, Islamic ethical perspectives on human genome editing emphasize that interventions meant for healing are not considered rebellion against God’s design.
The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) said:
“Allah has not sent down a disease except that He has also sent down its cure.”
(Sahih Bukhari)
Curing a hereditary illness through gene therapy aligns with preserving life (hifz al-nafs), one of the Maqasid al-Shariah.
Therapy vs. Alteration: The Shariah View, genetic engineering and gene editing
Islam distinguishes between gene therapy (for medical necessity) and genetic enhancement (for beautification or superiority). The former is permissible as it restores natural balance, while the latter, often linked to eugenics, risks tampering with divine creation and promoting inequality. Scholars generally prohibit genetic manipulation aimed at “designing” superior humans or changing features for vanity.
Maqasid al-Shariah: Preserving life and lineage
Islamic law aims to protect life (nafs) and lineage (nasl). Moreover, unregulated gene editing in Islam could threaten human identity and family integrity. Thus, Shariah encourages research within ethical boundaries, guided by both faith and science.
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In conclusion, if pursued with responsibility, ethical awareness, and respect for divine laws. Islam does not reject science; it calls for a balance between innovation and morality. Therefore, a joint scientific and Shariah oversight is essential to ensure that genetic advancements serve humanity while honoring Allah’s creation.
FAQs
Islam views genetic engineering positively when used for medical treatment and public benefit, but forbids its misuse for vanity, eugenics, or altering Allah’s natural creation without necessity.
Gene editing becomes haram when it changes Allah’s perfect creation for pride, enhancement, or superiority, violating divine balance and ethical principles outlined in the Qur’an and Sunnah.