1. How can one differentiate between self-talk, intrusive thoughts, and fleeting thoughts? And for which of the evil thoughts that come to mind is a person held accountable? 2. Is a wife's masturbation by her husband considered masturbation (a secretive habit), and does the ruling of prohibition apply to it?

Passing thoughts (al-hajis), fleeting ideas (al-khatir), and self-talk (hadith al-nafs) are not punishable as long as they do not reach the level of firm intention (al-azm). As for mere inclination (al-hamm), there is no accountability for it. However, a firm intention (al-azm) to commit a sin is punishable, but its perpetrator is held accountable according to their desert, not as someone who actually committed the sin. And whoever goes beyond self-talk to speech or action will be punished according to the extent of their disobedience. As for someone who committed a sin and did not repent, then intended to return to it, they are punished for persistence (al-israr). Regarding a woman stimulating herself with her husband's hand, we do not know of any scholar who prohibited it, but it is advised to avoid it as a precaution.