Clarification on a woman’s awrah when alone
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Question
I'm confused by the recent answer about making wudu whilst wearing shorts. The answer essentially says that women are never to expose the area between their navel and their knees, but there are certain times where this is basically a necessity as when using the toilet and bathing, as well as changing one’s clothing. Are these activities not permitted, or are we to go to elaborate lengths to avoid being nude in these times? I mean while the woman is alone, not in the company of others.Answer
It is perfectly permissible for a woman to expose what is between the navel and knees when there is a need, such as using the restroom, bathing and changing.
One should not, man or woman, elaborate in uncovering one’s nakedness in these activities when unnecessary, but one does not need to go to unreasonable lengths to remain covered. It says in the Reliance of the Traveller, (e9.1 (7))
“It is recommended when one intends to use the lavatory,….to not raise one’s garment until one squats down to the ground (O: to keep one’s nakedness covered as much as possible) and to lower it before one stands up;”
Yes, it is also permissible to make wudu in the shower, actually, it is recommended. It says in the Reliance of the Traveller (e11.1)
“When performing the purificatory bath, one:……
3) performs ablution (wudu) as one does before the prayer ghusl.
And Allah knows best.
Shazia
This answer was published by SunniPath and is preserved as written. Rulings can depend on circumstances; for your own situation, consult a qualified scholar.
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