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Fatwa CenterProstitution
Question
Is it ever alright for a woman to enter prostitution, say if she is forced into it by poverty. Also, are there any circumstances where it is ok for a man to use a prostitute?
Answer
All perfect praise be to Allaah, The Lord of the Worlds. I testify that there is none worthy of worship except Allaah, and that Muhammad 
is His slave and Messenger.
Islam forbids Zina (fornication or adultery) and considers it as one of the grave major sins and prepared a severe severe punishment punishment for it in the Hereafter. Allaah Says about the characteristics of the pious slaves (what means): {…and do not commit unlawful sexual intercourse. And whoever should do that will meet a penalty. Multiplied for him is the punishment on the Day of Resurrection, and he will abide therein humiliated…}[Quran 25:68-69]
The punishment for a person who commits illegal sexual intercourse in this life is also very grave; flogging if he/she is not married and stoning till death if he/she was ever married. This is to drive people away from Zina.
Therefore, committing adultery or fornication at any cost is forbidden for both men and women. Besides, a woman is not allowed to use this as a means for earning provision, because when Allaah forbids something He forbids its price too. Indeed, the worst earning is the earning of a prostitute. Raafi' 
narrated that the Prophet said: "The most evil earning is the wage of a prostitute (for her prostitution)." [Muslim]
We do not think that a woman's situation would reach the point where she would be compelled to engage in prostitution to fulfill her needs. There are many lawful means of earning which may suffice her.
If she cannot find lawful means, she may contact charity organizations such as Islamic Centers or trustworthy benefactors and they will surely help her, Allaah willing.
Allaah Knows best.
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