Is a man's conversation with a woman via social media considered a "khalwa" (private seclusion between a man and a woman who are not close relatives)?
Prohibited khalwa (private seclusion) refers to the physical seclusion of bodies. The reason for its prohibition is that it is a potential cause for falling into the unlawful and for empowering Satan to whisper evil suggestions. The Prophet, peace be upon him, said: "No man is alone with a woman but the third of them is Satan." While a man's conversation with a non-mahram woman via social media may not be the khalwa that is explicitly prohibited, it is nevertheless forbidden due to the potential for fitna (temptation, discord) and the likelihood of corruption, because anything that leads to fitna is impermissible. Furthermore, the texts of revelation have consistently prohibited deriving pleasure from a non-mahram woman, enjoying her voice, and looking at her, considering this a type of zina (fornication/adultery). Therefore, Muslim men and women must avoid such communication unless there is an overwhelming religious benefit or a legitimate worldly need, and the conversation should be limited only to what is necessary.
Summarized from the full answer at Ftawy · reviewed Sep 2, 2026
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