Question:
I heard from a Molvi sahib that when going to see a girl for Nikah purpose it is permissible to talk to the girl in presence of the girls Mahram. Could you please clarify this with reference.
Jazakallah
Answer:
Speaking to the girl for Nikah purposes is an established practice of Nabi (S.A.W.) and has also been granted by the Qur’an too in Surah Baqarah. In this Surah Allah Ta’ala advises the Believers with regards to the divorced lady that: “And there is no blame on you for the indication you give as an offer for betrothal to those (aforementioned) women (during their mourning periods), or you keep it a secret in your hearts. Allah knew that you will indeed make mention of them. And other than saying a suitable word you should make no secret promise to them. And do not resolve on the tie of marriage until the prescribed period runs its course. And know that Allah is Aware of all that is in your hearts. So fear Him, and know that Allah is Oft-Forgiving, All Forbearing.” (Surah Baqarah, Aayat 235)
The renowned Mufassir, Allamah Aaloosi Al-Baghdadi, while commenting on this Aayah describes the proposal rendered by Nabi (S.A.W.) to Umme Salmah (R.A.). He writes: “When the husband of Umme Salmah (R.A.), Abu Salmah (R.A.) passed away, Nabi (S.A.W.) wished to marry her. Nabi (S.A.W.) visited her while she was in her Iddah and indirectly proposed to her as advised by Allah Ta’ala in the Aayah mentioned above.” This was the same with regards to the proposal to Juwairiyah bintul Haarith who came to Nabi (S.A.W.) seeking financial assistance in order to purchase her freedom. Nabi (S.A.W.) assisted her and thereafter proposed to her directly upon which she accepted. (Tafseer Roohul Ma’aani, Vol. 2, Page 150, Seerah Ibni Hishaam, Page 368)
And Allah Ta’ala knows best
Ebrahim bin Zainul Abedeen Backus
Attested to as correct by:
Mufti Muhammad Ashraf
Darul Iftaa
Jameah Mahmoodiyah
Springs
06 May 2004
15 Rabee’ul Awwal 1425