What is the ruling on the relationship between a woman and a non-mahram man (whether a relative or a stranger) in study or in the marketplace? What are the boundaries of permissible and impermissible speech? What is "khudu' bil-qawl" (softening the speech)? Is jesting forbidden? What is the difference between jesting (muzah) and laughing aloud (mudahahakah), and between gentle speech and submissive speech? What is the relationship between jesting and "khudu' bil-qawl"? Does the ruling differ between a real-life encounter and written communication via social media?

Speech between a man and a non-mahram woman is not absolutely forbidden. What is forbidden is that which leads to fitna (temptation or discord), such as speaking in a soft and alluring manner, which is a softness and effeminacy in speech, as Allah Almighty says: "So do not speak in a soft manner [to men], lest he in whose heart is disease should covet." If fitna is secure and suspicion is absent, then speech is permissible. This can be imagined with an old woman who is not desired. As for a young woman, speaking with her without need is a gateway to fitna. The prohibition includes every word or deed that stirs instincts and leads to fitna, such as a woman striking her foot [on the ground] to make known what she conceals of her adornment. Thus, everything that leads to fitna through a woman is forbidden, and what is far from fitna is permissible.