The Dangers of Touching Non-Mahram: A Warning for Both Men and Women

The Islamic Ruling on Touching Non-Mahram: A Hadith-Based Explanation

Question: There is a hadith that says, “It is better for a man to have a nail driven into his head than to touch a non-mahram woman.” If a woman hugs or kisses a non-mahram man who is about her age, does this hadith apply to her as well? Can we correct her mistake even if she is a source of sustenance for us?

Answer: The Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) said, “For one of you to have his head pierced with an iron needle is better for him than to touch a woman who is not permissible for him.” This hadith is found in Al-Mu’jam Al-Kabir by At-Tabarani and has been authenticated by Sheikh Al-Albani.

This hadith also applies to a woman who hugs or kisses a non-mahram man, regardless of their ages. It applies to any man or woman who engages in such actions with a non-mahram.

If you see someone engaging in such behavior, you should advise them against it, as the Prophet (ﷺ) instructed us to forbid evil when we see it, regardless of whether the person is a relative, a provider, or someone who assists us in any way. A Muslim believes that Allah is the ultimate provider (Ar-Razzaq). While people may be means of sustenance for each other in this world, our true provider is Allah, who gives sustenance to everyone.

 Sheikh Maqbool Ahmed Salafi حفظه الله

❪Jeddah Dawah Center, Hayy Al-Salamah – Saudi Arabia❫