How to Chat With Muslim Women

Striking up a conversation with a Muslim woman can be intimidating, if you are unfamiliar with tenets of Islam or allow your view of Muslim life to be shaped by biased media reports. Regardless of the cultural differences, you can have a surprising and enjoyable chat with a Muslim woman.

Difficulty:

Easy

Instructions

How to Chat with Muslim Women

1. Do not stare. In the Qu'ran, Islam's scriptural book, women (and men) are instructed to "lower their gaze" when interacting with the opposite sex. It is, therefore, respectful for men to refrain from staring directly into a Muslim woman's eyes. Instead, look slightly to either side or at her nose when speaking with her.

2. Do not touch. The Qu'ran also discourages casual "intermingling of the sexes" as a preventive to sexual relations outside of marriage. Muslim women prefer distance when conversing and rarely initiate or invite touches or caresses, unless alone with their husbands or close family members. Especially do not touch a Muslim woman's head covering, clothing or body.

3. Treat her with respect. Muslim life, per the Qu'ran, calls for the highest respect of women, and they should always be spoken to and treated with the respect they exhibit and command.

4. Avoid inappropriate topics and words. Islamic life involves Muslim prayers throughout the day to keep Muslim women in touch with the "straight path" advocated in the Qu'ran, and in constant remembrance of their vow to be submitted to the will of God. Muslim women should not engage in raunchy, lewd or profane conversations and should not be approached with such talk.

5. Disregard stereotypes. Anti-Muslim propaganda exists in some Western societies, but Muslim women striving to live up to the tenets of their faith are peace-loving and kind. Take each Muslim woman as you find her and do not prejudge based on anti-Muslim stereotypes. Find out her interests, hobbies and goals, as you would any person you would like to get to know better.

Tips & Warnings

• Take time to read the Qu'ran to familiarize yourself with the spiritual principles and admonitions in it. Muslim women strive to follow these principles and to allow them to shape their perspective on life.