Are men allow to give salaam to women and vice versa?
Question
If yes should the man or the woman give it first? and to which extand are we allowed to dicuss with a stanger of the opposite sex? i.e. how are you...
Answer
It is permissible for Mahram (prohibited in marriage) males and females to make Salaam to one another as there is no fear of Fitna.
As regards Ghayr Mahram (not prohibited in marriage) males and females making Salaam to one another, consider the following points: 1. Salaam means peace and it is a quality of Allah.
2. Salaam is a Du'aa
3. There are great virtues for making Salaam to one another
4. Men and women by nature are attracted to the opposite sex. 5. In many instances, illicit relationship (lustful glances, etc.) between Ghayr Mahram male and female commenced with Salaams.
The virtues of making salaam are well known but the possible negative factors of Ghayr Mahram males and females cannot be ignored as well. It is a wellknown principle in Shari'ah, that if possible harms are more than the possible benefits, then the former (harms) will prevail as avoiding harm is more important than gaining benefit.
and Allah Ta'ala Knows Best
Mufti Ebrahim Desai
FATWA DEPT.
- Answered by
- Mufti Ebrahim Desai
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