Q: Is it permissible for male and female cousins to hug each other and be casual with each other? In many families, I notice male and female cousins hugging and speaking casually. In certain families, I also see brothers-in-law and sisters-in-law interacting casually. Could you give some advice on this issue and inform us of what appears in the Qur’aan Majeed and Ahaadith in this regard?

A: The Deen of Islam is a complete and comprehensive way of living. It provides guidance and guidelines in every sphere of human life. Every commandment and prohibition possesses immense blessing and abundant benefits. Shari‘ah commands us to observe strict purdah with all those whom we are allowed to marry (i.e. non-mahrams) in Islam. Hence, it is not permissible for male and female cousins as well as brothers-in-law and sisters-in-law to interact casually among themselves.