Why does it seem that the female Muslim scholar today finds discouragement from inviting men [to Islam], and what is the appropriate arrangement for that, and was the Companions' seeking of knowledge from the Prophet (peace be upon him) done directly or from behind a screen?

1. Aishah (may Allah be pleased with her) was a reference for the Companions in knowledge and understanding. It is permissible for a knowledgeable woman to teach and issue fatwas from behind a veil, especially if there is no one else to issue fatwas to men.

2. Aishah (may Allah be pleased with her) used to benefit people with her knowledge from behind a veil. She would refer matters she did not know to others, just as she referred the issue of wiping over theathersocks (khuffayn) to Ali ibn Abi Talib.

3. Women must seek to understand their religion and ask about matters that concern them, while adhering to the hijab and modesty when asking, just as the female Companions used to ask the Messenger of Allah (peace be upon him).