Question:
What is the best way to respond if addressed in conversation by someone who is not mahram? For example in the workplace, one needs to maintain a working relationship with one's colleagues, but not at a cost to one's relationship with Allah. Is there a difference if one is addressed on a matter of work as opposed to a matter of idle talk?
Answer:
If the workplace is of such a nature that it means you are in continuous close contact with women, such that preserving one's gaze is not possible, then one should try to find a job that does not expose one to such an unIslamic situation. Until such time, as when a person finds another suitable job, he may continue working at the present place.
If however in the person's present job, there is little contact with women and nor is it an integral part of the job, then one is permitted to speak with them to the extent of need which rules out any long conversations etc. As for looking, the Holy Qur'an says:
"Tell the believing men to lower their gazes (from looking at the other women) and guard their private parts; this is a pure way for them. Surely Allah knows full well what they do."
It is also narrated that Ali (radiallahu anhu) said: The first look is permitted and you will be held accountable for the second. (Sunnan Abu Daud).
Mufti Mohammed Sajjad
Wallahu Aalam bis-sawab
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The answer to this question is the opinion of the scholar and does not reflect the opinion of other scholars of As-Suffa Institute and As-Suffa Institute as an organisation. |
