Importance of sex in marriage

In Islam, marriage is not restricted to a platonic relationship between husband and wife, nor is it solely for procreation. The Islamic term for marriage, “nikah” literally means sexual intercourse.3

So why has Islam provided extensive rules and regulation regarding sex? This was because Islam has fully understood that sexual instincts cannot and must not be repressed. They can only be regulated for the well being of human beings in this life and for their success in the hereafter.

Sex in married life has been openly recommended in Qur'an, 'When they [i.e., the wives] have cleansed themselves [after menstruation], you go into them as Allah has commanded.” 7

Fulfillment of Sexual Urge

The Holy Prophet (s.a.w.s.) and the Holy Imams (a.s.) also encouraged their followers to marry and to fulfill their sexual urges in lawful ways as can be seen from the following: The Prophet (s.a.) said, “O you young men! I recommend marriage to you.” 8

Imam Reza (a.s.) said, “Three things are from the traditions of the messengers of God: using perfume, removing the [excessive] hair and visiting one's wife.” 9

Notes:

7. Surah Baqarah 2:222

8. Wasaelush Shia, vol. 14, p. 25

9. Wasaelush Shia, Vol. 14, p. 4

Adapted from the book: "Islamic Marriage" by: "Sayyid Akhtar Husain S.H. Rizvi"