What are the limits of interaction between a man and a non-mahram woman, and to what extent are the sayings and hadiths that permit such interaction in non-necessitous situations valid?

The mixing of men and women is permissible, provided that the legal guidelines are observed, such as lowering the gaze, avoiding seclusion (khalwa), and refraining from soft speech. However, without these guidelines, it is forbidden. The story of Asma and Al-Zubair, the story of the Prophet, peace and blessings be upon him, taking Aisha with him to an invitation he was called to, and also the eating of some of the Prophet's companions' wives with their husbands in the presence of a guest, cannot be used as evidence for the absolute permissibility of mixing. Rather, these instances are interpreted as either specific exceptions, or as having occurred before the imposition of the hijab, or with adherence to the legal guidelines. The fundamental principle is that a woman should remain in her home, in obedience to Allah's saying: "And abide in your houses." Similarly, a man greeting a group of women is permissible when there is no fear of temptation (fitna).