🤍 Character & conduct between spouses · #36
May one keep in touch with a former sweetheart or a close friend of the opposite sex after marriage?
A close, personal and hidden relationship with a former sweetheart or a friend of the opposite sex should end after marriage.
The prohibition on being alone with a non-mahram (Sahih al-Bukhari 5233) and the command to lower the gaze (an-Nur 24:30–31) exist to close the door to temptation. Today "being alone together" can happen through private messages late at night, video calls or sharing marital problems with a former sweetheart — one of the common roots of emotional infidelity. Necessary dealings at work or with relatives can continue in a professional and open way. A simple test: if you would not be comfortable with your spouse reading that conversation, the relationship has already crossed the line. Be open with your spouse about who you still keep in touch with. See Digital life & the family.
The prohibition on being alone with a non-mahram (Sahih al-Bukhari 5233) and the command to lower the gaze (an-Nur 24:30–31) exist to close the door to temptation. Today "being alone together" can happen through private messages late at night, video calls or sharing marital problems with a former sweetheart — one of the common roots of emotional infidelity. Necessary dealings at work or with relatives can continue in a professional and open way. A simple test: if you would not be comfortable with your spouse reading that conversation, the relationship has already crossed the line. Be open with your spouse about who you still keep in touch with. See Digital life & the family.
Sources
Sahih al-Bukhari 5233Surah an-Nur 24:30Surah an-Nur 24:31