Theologian Demircan's controversial adultery remarks

Author of the book “Sexual Life According to Islam”, theologian Ali Rıza Demircan responded to Kübra Par's questions on the Clear and Precise programme broadcast on Habertürk TV.
 
Theologian Ali Rıza Demircan said with reference to fatwas issued over child-age marriage, “The Islamic scholars’ fatwas on child-age marriage are a denigration of the Holy Quran, an insult against our prophet and oppression. Coming of age is a post-adolescent state. This can be both to the woman’s favour and disadvantage. It is a spiritual and mental suitability whereby she is capable of making monetary contracts and coping with the duties she will assume. It is impossible for a child to have such mental maturity.”
 
“WE WOULD BE MAKING LIGHT OF SEXUALITY”
 
Demircan said, “What goes on between the bedcovers is not a subject that can be commented on in the name of religion. As Christianity sees it, we would be making light of sexuality. This is an important phenomenon. Sexuality is important for both men and women. A man has gone to bed. This may evoke a sexual connotation in everyone. Let him toss and turn in his own bed until morning if he wants. It is meaningless and futile to subject this to a fatwa.”
 
“ISLAM IS NOT PATRIARCHAL”
 
Demircan, saying “It is impossible for Islam to be patriarchal,” commented, “There is absolutely no difference between women and men as far as Islamic law is concerned. Women are protected in this matter. Our culture is patriarchal.”
 
“LEGALLY FORBIDDING ADULTERY IS CONTRARY TO THE QURAN”
 
Demircan noted, “Legally forbidding adultery is contrary to Quranic principles. The Quran imposes no punishment for adultery, but punishes adultery being brought into the open. In the Islamic religion, adultery is both a crime and a sin. Adultery is both a sin and also a sin of third-degree magnitude in Islam. The Quran imposes no punishment for adultery. If a man commits adultery witnessed by another person, four witnesses are needed. He will have committed a sin and will be redeemed if he repents.”