Top 12 things Haram for women in Islam that Muslims didn't know about

Islam defines certain guidelines and prohibitions for both men and women to promote modesty, dignity, and social growth. However, there is a misconception that Islam is a rigid religion that puts restrictions specifically on women.In the pre-Islamic era, girls were often buried alive, but this practice was abolished with the arrival of the Holy Prophet(SAW). At that time, women were treated as inferior to men, oppressed, and treated like slaves. It was Islam that granted women equal rights comparable to those of men. In Islam, if something is prohibited, there is a valid reason behind it. Whatever Islam prohibits for women, it is beneficial for both the women and society.

If you give a matchstick to a child and tell them to play with it, they will surely burn themselves and their entire house. Similarly, in Islam, there are certain restrictions and guidelines for both men and women, so that they can protect themselves and society from harm. These restrictions and guidelines help us understand the difference between good and bad and show us the right path. Today, we will specifically learn about the top 12 forbidden things for women in Islam.

1. Dress Code

There are specific guidelines for women on how to dress Islamically. Women are required to dress modestly, often meaning covering their bodies, except for their faces and hands, in the presence of non-mahram (those who are not closely related) men. Women are not allowed to wear tight dresses that clearly reveal their private parts. Moreover, it is prohibited(Haram) for women to dress like men. 

2. Physical relationship with other men

Islam does not allow physical interaction between men and women. Both men and women are not allowed to touch each other expect their own spouses. In fact, Islam strictly prohibits extramarital relationships, including physical contact, intimacy, or sexual relations between men and women who are not married to each other. Islam teaches women to limit their interactions with unrelated(non-mahram)men and to communicate in a way that is direct and assertive, without being friendly or overly polite, to avoid any misunderstandings or inappropriate thoughts.

3. Eye-contact of women and men

Eye-contact between men and women who are not closely related (non-mahram) is generally discouraged in Islam. In Quran and Hadith  believers are advised  to lower their gaze and avoid eye contact with the opposite sex to prevent temptation and maintain modesty. However, in  some situations, like business or educational interactions, brief and respectful eye contact with non-mahram  men is allowed. According  to some Islamic interpretations, accidental or brief eye contact between a man and woman is not considered sinful.

4. Having Soft-Corner For Non-Mehram 

It is generally discouraged for women to have a "soft corner" (i.e., romantic feelings or emotional attachment) for non-mahram men (those who are not closely related to them) in Islam. Islam emphasizes the importance of modesty and fidelity. Developing emotional attachments or romantic feelings for someone other than one's spouse can lead to temptation, fitnah (trial or tribulation), and potentially even zina (adultery). Islamic  teachings advise women to  avoid unnecessary interactions with non-mahram men, not engage in flirtatious or intimate conversations and maintain a professional or formal relationship with them.

5. Avoid to use attractive material 

In Islam, women are prohibited from wearing items that may draw unnecessary attention from men, such as; strong perfumes or fragrances,excessive makeup or bold cosmetics,flashy jewelry or ornate accessories and  revealing or extravagant clothing. This is because Islam forbids a woman from displaying her beauty publicly to seek the attention of men other than her husband. Instead, a Muslim woman is encouraged to present herself modestly and humbly, upholding the values of hayaa (modesty) and chastity, and maintaining a positive reputation in society.

6. Dietary Restrictions For Women

 Women, like men are also instructed  eat to halal food and avoid haram(forbidden) food like pork, carrion and alcohol. Women should also refrain from consuming intoxicating substances like alcohol and drugs.

7. Gender-separate dining

According to some Islamic interpretations, women are encouraged to dine separately from unrelated men(Non-Mehram), promoting modesty and humility.

8. Avoid Travelling Alone

Islam emphasizes on the safety of women. According to some Muslim scholars, women are not allowed to travel alone; instead, they should go outside accompanied by their father, brother, husband, or son. Taking permission from their father and husband is necessary before going outside alone. However, they can travel alone for specific purposes like education, work, and visiting family, etc., with the permission of their father or husband. Moreover, it is compulsory for women to be accompanied by a mahram (close male relative) during Hajj and Umrah pilgrimages.

9. Avoid Going Outside With Uncovered Head

Islam, encourages  a muslim woman  to cover her head and hair in public as it is a sign of modesty and humility. In Surah Al-Ahzab, verse 59 clear guidelines  are provided  to Muslim women to wear a cloak or veil to cover their bodies, so they are treated as respectable women and not harassed. This verse also emphasizes modesty and protection for women. Therefore, a Muslim woman should cover her head and hair when going out in public, especially in the presence of non-mahram men (those who are not closely related to her). Moreover, Many people have  misconception, Can a Muslim woman expose her body to a male doctor? The answer is yes, for treatment purposes, she can reveal her body to a male doctor, or a male doctor can examine a woman's private parts for treatment purposes. However, they should maintain professionalism and respect during the examination and expose only affected area. 

10. Marrying with a non-muslim man

In Islam, a Muslim woman is not allowed to marry a non-Muslim man. In Quran, marrying with a polytheistic man is prohibited.until they believe.(Quran 2:221)

This is because Islam aims to protect women's faith.

11. Disobedience of Husband 

Islam emphasizes the sacredness and respect in a husband-wife relationship. Islam instructs both genders to give respect to each other in a marital relationship. While husbands are guided not to oppress their wives in Islam, similarly, women are taught not to disobey their husbands. In Islam, women are not allowed to go outside without their husband's permission. They are also not permitted to give anything from their house to someone without their husband's permission. Additionally, women are not allowed to use abusive language with their husbands. 

12. Calling Husband's Name

According to some Muslim scholars, a woman should not call her husband by his name; instead, she should use his 'kunya' (a nickname based on his child's name). For example, if their child's name is Huraira, then she can call him by saying 'Abu Huraira' (Father of Huraira). If they don't have any children, then she can use a kunya related to his father. This is based on traditional Islamic etiquette, emphasizing respect and modesty in addressing one's spouse. However, not all Muslim scholars or communities follow this practice, and modern interpretations may vary.

Conclusion 

In Islam, the guidelines for women are designed to foster modesty, dignity, and social harmony. While some of Islamic rules may seem restrictive, they are rooted in principles that aim to protect both women and society. From dress codes and interaction boundaries to dietary and marital rules, these prohibitions are intended to uphold moral and ethical standards. Understanding these guidelines within their historical and cultural context reveals that they are not about oppression but rather about guiding behavior to maintain respect and modesty in society. Embracing these teachings can help Muslim women navigate their roles with confidence and integrity, contributing positively to their communities.