Female greeting a female in the presence of men

QUESTION:

If a woman greets other woman, and there are men nearby, should we return the greeting verbally for her to hear, or should we reply via a gesture or other from of indication?

ANSWER:

The Shariah has prohibited women from talking loudly, so that they are not heard by men. Yes, a woman is permitted to talk to a man at the time of necessity, but not in a sweet, alluring tone, as this could lead to Fitnah hence, it is prohibited. [Re: Fataawa Uthmaaniyya Vol.10 Pg. 83] If by replying to the Salaam of a female loudly, there exists a possibility of a male becoming inclined (which could easily happen in our times due to the corruption of hearts), then the female should reply in a manner where her voice is not heard at all. However, she should reply to the Salaam.

ALLAH TA’ALA ALONE IN HIS INFINITE KNOWLEDGE KNOWS BEST!

ANSWERED BY:

Maulana Ahmed Saeed

Date:- 27 Muharram 1445 / 15 August 2023

CHECKED AND APPROVED BY:

Mufti Mohammed Desai Saheb