What are the manners of speaking with women in general, and in cases of buying and selling, teaching, personal interviews, and explaining a specific matter to them, and what is the ruling on lowering the gaze in these situations, and when is it permissible to look at women?

Speaking with foreign women, if it is without need and accompanied by pleasure derived from hearing the voice or if the woman softens her speech, is forbidden and constitutes fornication of the tongue and ear.

However, if there is a need, the general rule is permissibility, provided the following manners are observed:

1. Limiting the conversation to the extent of the need, without elaboration. 2. Avoiding joking and laughter. 3. Lowering the gaze as much as possible. 4. Neither party should soften their speech. 5. Avoiding romantic or private words. 6. Refraining from exaggeration in persuasive styles.