Privacy of Dwellings: Islamic Teachings and Qur’anic Injunctions
The concept of privacy of dwellings is deeply rooted in Islamic teachings and is explicitly mandated in the Qur’an. This principle underscores the sanctity and respect for personal space and boundaries within a Muslim household.
Etymology and Translations
- Arabic: الاستئذان (Al-Isti’zan) - meaning “asking permission”
- Turkish: Ev Mahremiyeti - meaning “home privacy”
Qur’anic Injunctions
The Qur’an explicitly instructs believers on the etiquette of entering someone else’s home. The verses in Surah An-Nur (24:27-29) state:
<p>“O ye who believe! Enter not into houses other than your own, until ye have asked leave and saluted its inmates. That is best for you; haply ye will bear this in mind. And if ye find no one therein, then enter not until leave is given to you; and if it is said to you, ‘Go ye back,’ then go back: that is the best course for you, and Allah is aware of what ye do. It is no sin in you that ye enter uninhabited houses wherein ye have your necessary uses. And Allah knows what ye disclose and what ye conceal.”</p>
Prophetic Teachings
Prophet Muhammad’s teachings further elucidate the importance of this practice. ʿAtāʾ ibn Yasār narrates a hadith where a man asked the Prophet if he must ask permission to enter his mother’s room, to which the Prophet affirmed, emphasizing the respect and privacy due even within a close familial context:
<p>“A man once asked the Prophet, ‘Must I ask leave to go into the room of my mother?’ The Prophet said, ‘Yes.’ Then the man said, ‘But I live in the same home.’ The Prophet said, ‘Yes, even if you live in the same home.’ The man said, ‘But I wait upon her!’ The Prophet,: ‘But you must ask permission; for, what! would you like to see your mother naked?’ "</p>
The Mishkāt al-Maṣābīh (Book 22, Chapter 2) also records that Prophet Muhammad would always give notice before entering a room without a curtain by saluting multiple times.
Cultural and Historical Context
This practice has been deeply entrenched in Islamic culture and is widely observed in the Muslim world. It is considered highly impolite to enter a dwelling unannounced, ensuring a high level of respect for personal and family privacy.
Suggested Books for Further Study
- “The Important Lessons for the Muslim Ummah” by Shaykh ‘Abd al-‘Aziz ibn Baz
- “Forty Hadiths on Privacy in Islam” by Abu Eesa Niamatullah
- “The Rights of Neighbours and the Privacy of Dwellings in Islam” by Muhammad Nasiruddin al-Albani
Key Takeaways
- Privacy of dwellings is a fundamental aspect of Islamic etiquette.
- The Qur’an and Hadith provide clear instructions on seeking permission before entering someone’s home.
- This principle promotes respect for personal boundaries and the sanctity of the home.
- It reflects the broader Islamic values of modesty, respect, and considerate behavior towards others.
Conclusion
The emphasis on the privacy of dwellings in Islam is a reflection of the religion’s broader ethical framework, which prioritizes respect for individual spaces and family sanctity. By adhering to these teachings, Muslims not only follow a divine command but also foster a community ethos rooted in respect and dignity.
