Is it permissible for a Syrian couple, residing in Jordan, who are engaged to be married, to recite the Fatiha, converse, and see each other in the presence of their families and with proper Islamic حجاب (hijab), for a short period to ascertain compatibility before the official marriage contract is finalized in court, in order to avoid the label "divorced woman" in case of incompatibility?
The engagement and the recitation of Al-Fatiha—which is customary among some people—do not constitute a marriage contract. It is permissible for the suitor to speak with his fiancée when necessary, without being in seclusion, provided that the regulations for speaking with a non-mahram are observed.
Summarized from the full answer at Ftawy · reviewed Sep 2, 2026
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