This article is derived from the book "500 Questions and Answers for Women," based on the fatwas of the scholars of the Haramain, translated by Hafiz Abdullah Saleem.
The fundamental principle regarding this matter is that a man should avoid conversing with a non-Mahram woman to prevent any potential fitnah (temptation). However, if there is no fear of temptation or corruption, then there is no harm in such communication.
Similarly, if a woman calls her sister or friend and a man answers instead, she may inquire about her sister or friend if necessary.
In cases where a woman must speak to a man, she should begin with Salam, as supported by the saying of the Prophet ﷺ:
"Whoever initiates a conversation with you before greeting with Salam, do not respond to them."
(Ṣaḥīḥ al-Jāmi', Hadith No. 6122)
Thus, casual or unnecessary conversations between non-Mahram men and women should be avoided, but if there is a valid necessity and no risk of fitnah, then it is permissible.
(Fatwa by Sheikh Abdul Aziz bin Abdullah bin Baz, رحمه الله)
Question:
If a man makes a phone call and a woman answers, and he asks about her brother, husband, or any other family member, is there any harm in this?Answer:
If there is a genuine need to speak, then it is preferable and recommended that the conversation begins with Salam (greeting of peace).The fundamental principle regarding this matter is that a man should avoid conversing with a non-Mahram woman to prevent any potential fitnah (temptation). However, if there is no fear of temptation or corruption, then there is no harm in such communication.
Similarly, if a woman calls her sister or friend and a man answers instead, she may inquire about her sister or friend if necessary.
In cases where a woman must speak to a man, she should begin with Salam, as supported by the saying of the Prophet ﷺ:
"Whoever initiates a conversation with you before greeting with Salam, do not respond to them."
(Ṣaḥīḥ al-Jāmi', Hadith No. 6122)
Thus, casual or unnecessary conversations between non-Mahram men and women should be avoided, but if there is a valid necessity and no risk of fitnah, then it is permissible.
(Fatwa by Sheikh Abdul Aziz bin Abdullah bin Baz, رحمه الله)