Ans.34: This point of communication in the name of seeking knowledge, between women and men on the phone or internet, has become so apparent these days and has become beyond that which is allowed. In fact it has reached such a level that women call men and extend the conversation and sometimes these conversations even take place in the last part of the night.

 

They exchange numbers and converse with one another and this is an evil deviation and a disease as has been authentically reported in a narration as indeed this type of communication will harm the woman especially if she is unaware of the man’s intention (the one who’s sick). It is obligatory for the woman to remove herself from men who are not mahram. If there’s a need, then she should contact a man of knowledge who is known for his good conduct and his knowledge; and only for something that concerns her. It is also better for her to contact someone of knowledge and understanding who she feels secure with and this person has a position , someone who has good ‘aqeedah, correct methodology and his advice is to help the Ummah.

 

Finally, this communication should not be prolonged, the question and the answer. Her place is in the home so her dawah should be in the home. But if for example she is a teacher and needs advice about her work, then this is fine. But she shouldn’t have congregations on the internet, with joking, prolonged mixing between men and women, etc.. For example, there’s an Egyptian woman Zaynab ‘Uzaly al Masriyah, who is used to having male students asking her questions until late in the night while her husband is home, perhaps sleeping; this is not a good situation. This has become widespread amongst the female students of knowledge, that they leave their house and children in the name of da’wah yet it is more incumbent upon her that she stays home and fulfils her duties upon her husband and that she doesn’t lose her children. So when the woman has learnt in schools and mosques, then she shouldn’t burden herself in such affairs as these but rather her knowledge should benefit herself first and foremost.

 

If she has gatherings where she teaches women only, then there is no harm in that. Faatimaah, radhi Allaahu ‘anha, the best of women made a beautiful statement to the women when she said, “It is befitted that the women shouldn’t see the men and nor the men should see her.” So these long communications with softened voices, which happen between men and women are prohibited and Allaah prohibited them. I advise women to remove themselves far away from this. She should learn from this and guard her household, and there is da’wah in this for her. So the Muslim woman shouldn’t partake in the conversations where unfortunately there are heedless people who may have plans which may lead her to a situation that will end in an evil result. So we ask Allaah Subhanu wa ta’Ala to enlighten our sisters and guard them, we ask Allaah to guide our daughters to the correct Path. We ask Allaah Subhanu wa ta’Ala to protect them and save them from any harm.