Praising Other Women: Is It Permissible in Islam?

Can a Husband Praise Other Women in Front of His Wife?

Question: A sister has asked a question: Her husband praises other women, such as cousins, and she tells him not to praise other women. She says this not out of jealousy, but her husband says she is being jealous. Is her action correct, or will she be sinful?

Answer: It is not permissible for a man to describe the physical beauty and attributes of another woman to his wife, nor is it permissible for a wife to describe the physical attributes of another man or woman to her husband. However, there is no harm in mentioning someone’s piety and good character to each other, as this can inspire others to be more pious. This is why the piety and asceticism of righteous men and women have been mentioned by the predecessors.

Another issue here is that women often do not observe proper hijab with their male relatives, such as cousins, uncles, and maternal uncles. This can lead to immodesty in society. Therefore, caution is needed on both sides. Women should observe hijab with non-mahram men, and men should avoid unnecessary interaction, conversation, and special relationships with such women.

✍ Sheikh Maqbool Ahmed Salafi (may Allah protect him)

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