Fatwa ID: 01583

Answered by Mufti Mohammed Tosir Miah

Question:

Revealing ones body shape to a prospective suitor for marriage

Answer:

In the name of Allah, the most Beneficent, the most Merciful.

It is recommended to look at the suitor one intends to marry. It is something, which has been encouraged by the Prophet of Allah .

Saaiduna Mughira Ibn Shubah narrates that he proposed to a woman for marriage. The Prophet of Allah said to him, “Look at her, for it may produce love between you.” (Sunan Tirmizi p.207 v.1)

Saaiduna Jabir Radiallahu Anhu narrates that he Prophet of Allah said, “When one of you proposes to a woman for marriage, then if he is able to look at what will induce him to marry her, he should do so.” (Sunan Abi Dawud p.291 v.1)

The person is only permitted to look at the suitors face and hands, even if there is desire (shahwah) but this is when one genuinely believes it is very likely he will get married to her.” (Mazahirul Haqq p.18 v.4 & Raddul Muhtar p.67 v.4)

Furthermore, the meeting should be done in such a way where you and the woman are not alone. It will be appropriate if you have a meeting with the woman and her wali.

Saaiduna Abullah Ibn Abbas narrates that the Prophet of Allah said, “A man must not remain alone in the company of a woman and a woman must not travel except that her mahram is accompanying her.” (Sahih Bukhari)

From the aforementioned discussion we can clearly derive that it will not be permissible for the sister in question to reveal her body shape or anything besides her face and hands to the prospective suitor for marriage.

Only Allah Knows Best

Mohammed Tosir Miah

Darul Ifta Birmingham.