Question
Is it permissible for a young man to speak with a young woman? And what is the ruling on looking at women in mixed educational settings?
Answer
Al-ḥamdu lillāh, waṣ-ṣalātu wa-s-salāmu ʿalā Rasūlillāh, ʿammā baʿd!
✿ It is not permissible for a young man (e.g., 20 years old) to freely converse with a young woman. Such interaction opens the door to fitnah and is prohibited in Sharīʿah.
✿ As for educational settings where boys and girls study together:
- Looking at girls is sinful, even if it happens habitually or is deemed “normal” in society.
- Claiming it as a “necessity” is not valid in Sharīʿah.
✿ Solution:
Avoid admission into such mixed institutions where free mixing and unlawful gazes cannot be prevented. Safeguarding one’s religion and modesty is obligatory.
Conclusion:Speaking to unrelated young women and looking at them is forbidden. A Muslim should protect his eyes and tongue, and avoid mixed environments to preserve his īmān.
