Question
Reference number: 333785 | Miscellaneous | March 3, 2020
What is the ruling if I look at a handsome man and say Masha’ Allah? Am I sinful? How can I prevent myself from looking at men?
Answer
Praise Be to Allah and Peace Be Upon His Messenger.
The unintentional look which happens by accident is not a sin. However, the intentional gaze makes you sinful. Allah askes both: men and women to lower their gaze. Allah says: “Tell the believing men to lower their gaze and protect their private parts” An-Nur: 30. He also says the same to believing women. He says: “And tell the believing women to lower their gaze and protect their private parts.” An-Nur 31
Saying Mash’ Allah is not the whole story. We do not talk about envy and how to not be envious. We discuss the issue of looking intentionally at men by women or at women by men. Remember that Allah watches us all the time. Allah says: “And He is with you (by His Knowledge) wherever you may be.” Al-Hadid: 4
I advise you not to intentionally look at men as this may result in thinking with haram relationship or deeds. Allah’s Angels record our deeds and sayings. Allah says: “Not a word does he (or she) utter but there is a watcher by him ready (to record it.” Qaf: 18