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The question

Is it permissible to send a picture of the suitor to his fiancée without the parents' knowledge because she fears their opposition, and is it permissible to speak with him about important matters without their knowledge?

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Source: FtawySummarized from the full answer at Ftawy · reviewed Sep 2, 20261 min readAlso available in العربية
The answer

The Lawgiver (Allah) has recommended that a suitor see the woman he intends to marry, so that he may proceed with insight. The majority of scholars do not stipulate her permission or her guardian's permission for this. There is no harm in viewing photographs of the prospective bride, provided that the viewing is for the purpose of inquiry and not for pleasure, and that he is reasonably certain of receiving an acceptance. After the initial acquaintance and engagement, he must refrain from looking at her and return her photograph, as she remains a stranger to him. Some jurists have permitted the guardian to prevent the suitor from viewing her, to avert harm. As for communication between the suitor and the prospective bride, there is no objection to it if there is a need and it is within the bounds of decorum, and free from flirtatious expressions; because the suitor remains a stranger to her until the marriage contract is concluded.

Summarized from the full answer at Ftawy · reviewed Sep 2, 2026

Read the full answer on Ftawy