By Erewunmi Peace

A recent online report claiming that an Islamic cleric declared DNA testing “forbidden for Muslims” has stirred widespread debate and confusion among Nigerians on social media. The statement, first published by a local blog, has prompted many to question the stance of Islam on the use of scientific methods to establish paternity and family lineage.

The controversial headline, which quickly spread across various online platforms, quoted an unnamed cleric allegedly stating that DNA testing is against Islamic principles. However, a deeper examination of Islamic legal sources and scholarly positions reveals that this claim oversimplifies and misrepresents mainstream Islamic teaching.

According to several Islamic scholars and legal experts, DNA testing is not categorically forbidden in Islam. Instead, its use is governed by context and intention. Religious rulings generally accept DNA as supporting evidence in matters such as disputed lineage, missing person identification, or criminal investigations, provided it does not violate ethical or privacy standards.

Islamic jurisprudence emphasizes that the determination of lineage must follow the Sharīʿah principle known as “al-walad lil-firāsh” — meaning “the child belongs to the (marital) bed.” This principle maintains that a child born within a valid marriage is presumed to belong to the husband unless legally proven otherwise through formal religious procedures like liʿān (mutual oath of denial).

While some conservative scholars caution against using DNA results to contradict established lineage, others argue that modern science can serve as a valuable aid in upholding justice and truth — especially in complex family or legal disputes. Prominent Islamic websites such as IslamWeb and AboutIslam clarify that DNA testing is permissible when used responsibly and not as a tool for slander or unnecessary suspicion.

Furthermore, many Islamic nations, including Saudi Arabia, Egypt, and Morocco, already recognize DNA evidence in certain legal and medical contexts, underscoring that Islam does not reject scientific advancement but seeks to regulate its ethical application.

Experts warn that blanket statements like “DNA testing is forbidden” risk misleading the public and distorting the careful balance between faith and science that Islamic law seeks to uphold. They also highlight the importance of consulting credible religious authorities rather than relying on social media posts or unverified reports.

In summary, while Islamic law places moral and legal safeguards around the use of DNA testing, it does not outright prohibit it. The controversy surrounding the cleric’s alleged statement reflects a growing need for clarity in how religious views are communicated in the digital age.

As debates over paternity testing and family ethics continue to emerge, scholars urge Muslims to seek guidance from qualified jurists and verified fatwa institutions to avoid misinformation and maintain harmony between faith and modern science.