How Can I Lower My Gaze as a Deaf Woman?
Answered by Ustadha Shazia Ahmad
Question
How Can I Lower My Gaze as a Deaf Woman?
Answer
Thank you for your question. In your case, it would be warranted to look at the face of the opposite gender as much as is necessary. In any case, looking at the face of a man without lust is permissible, as outlined in the links below.
Glance
One must always guard one’s heart and check one’s intentions when looking at the opposite gender. Allah (Most High) has told us in the Quran, “Allah knows the sly glances of the eyes and whatever the hearts conceal.” [Quran, 40:19]
Ease and Moderation
At the same time, the rules of our religion are not unreasonable. Allah (Most High) has told us in the Quran, “[…] Allah intends ease for you, not hardship, […]” [Quran, 2:185]
It was narrated from Abu Hurayra that the Messenger of Allah (Allah bless him and give him peace) said: “Be moderate and adhere to moderation, for there is no one among you who will be saved by his deeds.” They said: “Not even you, O Messenger of Allah?” He said: “Not even me. Unless Allah encompasses me with mercy and grace from Him.” [Ibn Maja]
And the Prophet (Allah bless him and give him peace) said, “Religion is easy, and no one overburdens himself in religion except that it overwhelms him. So, be moderate, and try to reach near perfection, and receive the good tidings that you will be rewarded; and seek help (from Allah) at morning, at dusk, and some part of the night” [Bukhari]
Please see these links as well:
- What Does the Phrase “Ease in Religion” Mean?
- Is It Permissible to Look at Women Who Don’t Wear Hijab?
- On Lowering the Gaze – Habib Umar
May Allah give you the best of this world and the next.
[Ustadha] Shazia Ahmad
Checked and Approved by Shaykh Irshaad Sedick
Ustadha Shazia Ahmad lived in Damascus, Syria, for two years, where she studied aqidah, fiqh, tajweed, tafsir, and Arabic. She then attended the University of Texas at Austin and completed her Master’s in Arabic. Afterward, she moved to Amman, Jordan, where she studied fiqh, Arabic, and other sciences. She later moved back to Mississauga, Canada, where she lives with her family.
