Opposite gender Interactions
If there is one message that you take from this reading and Islam’s view on opposite gender interactions, it is to KNOW YOUR BOUNDARIES.
In Islam, there is an emphasis on maintaining appropriate boundaries between men and women who are not closely related. However, interactions with non-mahrams are not completely haraam, and the degree of interaction allowed may vary depending on the specific circumstances and the individuals involved.
Shia scholars generally recommend that interactions with non-mahrams should be respectful, professional, and modest. This includes avoiding physical contact, inappropriate language or free behavior.
However, interactions with non-mahrams that are necessary for work or other legitimate purposes are allowed, as long as appropriate boundaries are maintained. For example, men and women may interact in professional settings, such as school, offices, conferences, but should still observe modesty of knowing their boundaries.
In terms of looking, Boys and men may look at the complete body, with the exception of the private parts, of a woman who is their mahram as long as it is without lust or the intention of deriving pleasure. They are not allowed to look at the body or hair of a non-mahram woman, but to look at the hands up to the wrist, and the face (the amount washed in wudu), without the intention of pleasure is no problem.
Girls and women are allowed to look at the head, face, hands and feet of non-mahram men, in that amount which is normally uncovered, as long as it is not done with the intention of deriving pleasure.
Overall, the Shia Islamic view on interactions with non-mahrams is that they are not completely prohibited, but must be conducted with respect, modesty, and appropriate boundaries. The specific degree of interaction allowed may depend on the circumstances and the individuals involved.
Online Interactions
Consider your online presence and behavior. Nowadays many has a phone and social media along with it. It is therefore necessary to be aware of the rules of hijab that need to be observed from behind the screen like in real life. A woman can talk to a non-mahram if it is not done out of lustful desires and there is no chance of falling into haram acts. She should not speak in an arousing manner by making her voice soft and thin and should not speak about any arousing matters. Thus, chatting on the internet or phone and writing letters or emails between non-mahrams, even cousins, is not allowed if there is fear of sin. It is only allowed if it is a necessary matter like learning skills, taking medical or legal advice, etc. It should not be aimless chatting for the sake of passing time. There is no harm in using the phone for necessary purposes, or even talking/chatting to non-mahram for a useful reason and to the point. Anything more than that is not allowed, just like when talking face-to-face. If you have to work on a school or work project with a non-mahram, these rules must be observed. Also, you should never be alone in a place with a non-mahram where no one else can enter.
Does the Quran directly mention opposite gender interactions?
The Quran has many verses which point out how we should conduct ourselves:
Women are required not to speak in a manner/voice that incites lust [33:32]. From this we can deduce that there should be a boundary in our speech. Over-friendliness for example, could result in something haraam. When we are speaking to a non- mahram try to talk of what is necessary or only to the point of polite.
FAQ
How can I avoid a sinful situation with a non-mahram?
It is better to non-mahram men and women to avoid being alone, especially in private settings.
Maintain your own physical and social hijab as way of protecting yourself. Whilst being in the correct hijab it will not only signal modesty to the person in front of you but also remind you of what you believe and how to conduct yourself.
Can I be seen by a non-mahram doctor?
If there is an option to be seen by a medical professional of the same gender it is better. However, if it is necessary to your health then there is no problem to be seen by a male doctor.
Can I shake hands with a non-mahram?
Shaking hands is a form of physical touch and touch creates feelings. Shaking hands should be avoided at all costs by simply explaining your religious beliefs and it is nothing personal to the person. Many students know on their graduation hold their hat or certificate to signify that they will not be shaking hands and universities respect such views.
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