Q.1. In countries where several religions exist side by side, it is normal for people of different religions to have social contacts. How should a Muslim behave in matters where the practice of others differs with our own, say, on food, dress, etc.?
Q.2. Why is the Qur’an read aloud in some prayers and silently in others? Why we cannot offer Sunnah prayer after Asr? Some people prefer to offer prayers in their offices rather than go to the nearby mosque. Please comment.
M. Rafin
A.1. Dealing with non-Muslims must always be understanding, cordial and friendly, provided, of course, that they also treat us in the same way. There is no harm in maintaining good relations with them. Indeed, this is encouraged. However, those of them who are hostile to Islam or try to ridicule our beliefs or practices are to be treated differently. We do not extend kindness to them, but stay away from them. We must not start hostility, but we do not accept humiliation. As for friendly ones, we should explain to them what limits we are bound to observe. Say, if your non-Muslim neighbor invites you to a dinner, you accept, but you should explain in advance Islamic requirements concerning food so that he would only serve you what you can eat.
A.2. The form, content and nature of prayer has been determined by God, and shown to us by the Prophet (peace be upon him). He orders us: “Pray as you have seen me pray.” So, in all situations we should do like the Prophet did when he prayed. This applies to reading privately or aloud, praying Sunnah or not, and at what time. As for workers praying in their offices, this is acceptable. Of course, it is preferable to pray with the congregation at the nearby mosque, but if people cannot leave their work, they are perfectly entitled to pray in their offices.
As for your other question, it is the recommended practice that if a couple is having a second intercourse then they do the ablution in between. This is more refreshing and makes their relation more enjoyable. But this is a recommendation, or Sunnah, not an obligation.
Unification of the Hijri Calendar
Q. It is observed that Muslim countries differ in their Hijri calendars, leading to differences in observing Islamic occasions. Why cannot they make an effort to unify the Hijri calendar so that all Muslims observe these occasions at the same time?
C.A.K. Koya
A. There were some efforts in this connection, with experts meetings and research papers done. However, nothing tangible has taken place because of differences among scholars, leading to political authorities refraining from taking the lead. From the Islamic point of view, there is nothing wrong with relying on astronomical data to determine religious occasions in advance, or the beginning of lunar months. Indeed, this is preferable and more accurate, even though some scholars are either reluctant or opposed to such a step. It is such determination that is at the core of the problem. With such differences and reluctance by political authorities to take the lead, the problem will unfortunately stay with us.
Wearing a Gold Watch
Q. I have always hoped to buy an expensive watch, but now I realize that it has 18-carat gold in it, as well as stainless steel. I know that it is not permissible for men to wear an article made of gold or silk. Does this apply to such a watch?
A.Y.B.
A. The simple answer is that I cannot tell you unless I know more about the watch and what is the gold component in it. However, there is a Hadith that should be our guide in any such matter: “Abandon anything that raises doubt in your mind, opting always for what gives you no doubt.” Since the watch you want to buy gives you some doubt, it is better, from the religious point of view, not to buy it. It is infinitely better to stick with what is undoubtedly permissible, or halal. When you do that, going against something you have always wished to have, God will give you reward, if He so pleases, which will be much better for you than any watch.