What were the limits of looking and interacting that the Mothers of the Believers and the female Companions observed with those around them, especially since her fiancé obliges her to completely lower her gaze, which has affected her daily interactions and her perception of men?
Lowering the gaze from what is unlawful is obligatory for both men and women, based on the Almighty’s saying: "Tell the believing men to lower their gaze," and "Tell the believing women to lower their gaze." Unrestricted gazing leads to fornication and incites desires, and it contradicts Allah's command. There is no harm in dealing with neighbors and vendors if there is a necessity or need, provided that Islamic etiquette is observed, such as wearing the hijab and not speaking in a soft, alluring tone, and limiting interaction and looking to the extent of the need. The treatment for obsessive whispers (waswas) is to disregard them and not pay them any attention. A suitor (khateeb) is a stranger to his fiancée, and it is not permissible for them to be alone together (khalwa), touch each other, or speak without need.
Summarized from the full answer at Ftawy · reviewed Sep 2, 2026
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