Command of lowering the gazes

Question:-

What are the views of the four Mathaahib with regard to the obligation of lowering the gaze for both genders, even if one feels no desire for the opposite gender?

Unfortunately, many in our community have abandoned this principle of protecting the eyes and have started to say, “X alim/scholar doesn’t do so, therefore we don’t have to.”  Another example is, that these scholars all over the internet and at conferences/on stage are interacting and looking at women who have been made Haram for them. Some of the people have also starting quoting ‘differences of opinion’ in regards to this Mas’alah. The subsequent effect that this has had on our community is shocking (i.e. cases of Zina, adultery and intermingling has become widespread).

Please can you provide a clear answer on this topic?

Answer:-

Allah Ta’ala states in the Quraan Sharif, “Tell the Mu’mineen men that they should lower their gazes and guard their chastity.” [Re:- Surah Noor, Verse 30]  

This is a general injunction of the Quraan Sharif which refers to all men, irrespective of which Madhab one follows. There is no difference of opinion on this matter. A similar injunction is applicable to females, that they, too, should lower their gazes and guard their chastity.

The action of any Alim is not a proof in Shariah, particularly when he is treading the wrong path and leading others astray. These Ulama are deviated and should sincerely repent for their error. The laws of Shariah are derived either from the Quraan, Sunnah, Ijmaa (consensus of the Ulama) or Qiyaas (analogical deduction). Laws of Shariah derived from other than these four sources (such as the practice of an Alim) will not be acceptable.

ALLAH TA’ALA KNOWS BEST!

ANSWERED BY:

Mufti Mohammed Desai

Date: 21 Rabi-ul-Awwal 1444 / 18 October 2022