What is the ruling on looking if it does not lead to fornication?

It is forbidden for a Muslim to look at what Allah has prohibited, as it exposes him to Allah's wrath and punishment. Allah has commanded lowering the gaze and guarding one's chastity in His saying: {Tell the believing men to reduce [some] of their vision and guard their private parts. That is purer for them. Indeed, Allah is Acquainted with what they do. And tell the believing women to reduce [some] of their vision and guard their private parts.} Moreover, Allah created His servants for His worship and their testing. The Messenger of Allah, peace and blessings be upon him, forbade looking at what Allah has prohibited and made following him a cause for Allah's love and forgiveness. Therefore, a Muslim must lower his gaze from what is unlawful, seek refuge in Allah from Satan, and occupy himself with reading the Quran, prayer, seeking forgiveness, and performing righteous deeds.