Conduct and behaviour of men

I have some questions regarding the Conduct and behaviour of men specifically in the west and in some way relating to the rules governing the conduct and behaviour of women. It is clearly stated that women should wear Hijab and conduct themselves within the boundaries of Hijab if they must venture outside or in the company of men (i.e. minimise contact with men or if possible avoid altogether etc). This is so to minimise the chances of getting oneself in uncompromising positions, or more importantly, for their protection. Similar rules apply for Men specifically when in contact with women but my question is what about their conduct when with other men, whether Muslim or kaffir specifically the protection factor. Considering that statistics show that men in the west are as much likely, if not more, in danger of getting hurt / attacked / murdered by other men than women are of getting assaulted/raped by men. How should Muslim men conduct themselves? Should they not venture out alone? Should they stay indoors for their own protection? The third question is a misnomer considering the consequences, society coming to a standstill if the breadwinner doesn't go out to work etc.

 

In the name of Allah, Most Compassionate, Most Merciful,

Allah Most High says to the believing women:

“And stay quietly in your houses, and make not a dazzling display, like that of the former times of ignorance”. (al-Ahzab, 33).

Due to the above verse and other similar texts of the Qur’an and Sunna, it is generally advised that women should not come out of their homes unnecessarily. However, if there is a need, then there is nothing wrong in emerging out of the home, provided all the rules of Hijab are fully observed.

The wisdom behind this is that, Islam totally forbids fornication and even those things that may lead one towards it. The Qur’an prohibits us from even getting close to fornication, thus Islam disapproves of unnecessary intermingling of the sexes. Then, there is also the reason of keeping women safe from corrupt and evil people who may harm or abuse her in any way.

As for the men, they have the responsibility of providing for the family and are considered the breadwinners, thus they must go out and earn a living. They are obliged to carry out and fulfil the day to day needs of their wives and other family members. Also, men are physically stronger than women and are able to save themselves from any potential harm and abuse.

Therefore, Islam encouraged women to remain in their homes to prevent unnecessary intermingling with men. The reason why this restriction was not placed upon men rather than women is that, as mentioned earlier, men have the responsibility of providing for the family. As such, it was necessary for them to go out and earn, whilst their women may stay in and look after the household affairs. Also, there is less potential harm in men going out than women, for men are physically stronger and more able to defend themselves.

Yes, if there is a place or situation where a man may be in danger of being abused, harmed, attacked, etc, then one must take all possible and necessary means of protection. It would most definitely be advisable not to go out alone, rather in the company of another person or in a group. The Messenger of Allah (Allah bless him & give him peace) also advised that one should travel in a group and not alone.

And Allah knows best

Muhammad ibn Adam al-Kawthari
Darul Iftaa, Leicester, UK