islam and modern world

I was waiting in the college cafeteria when surprisingly I met a sweet girl who was unfortunately troubled with the idea of studying in a co-education institution. The question which worried her was that should a Muslim study in a co-education institution knowing the fact that Allah does not like any sort of mixed gatherings?

Her question was quite intellectual and it made me ponder deeply. I remember very well that the first ayat which was revealed to the Holy Prophet, Rasulullah (sallallahu alaihi wasallam) in cave Hira was:

"Read! In the Name of your Lord Who has created (all that exists)."   (96:1)

"Read! And your Lord is the Most Generous."   (96:3)

It is quite understandable that acquiring knowledge must be every Muslims aim. However, Allah says clearly to men and women that,

"Tell the believing men to lower their gaze (from looking at forbidden things) and guard their modesty..."   (24:30)

"And tell the believing women to lower their gaze (from looking at forbidden things) and guard their modesty..."   (24:31)

These ayaat have made it clear that whatsoever institution or gathering may it be, it must be separate for males and females. Yet, there are a few unfortunate Muslims who are not aware of this fact and naturally they establish co-educational institutions. In such cases when it comes to Muslim students they get confused about whether they should study in such institutions or not. Our first priority must be to look for separate institutions for girls and even there they must guard their modesty because obviously, Allah knows our intentions at every step of the way as our Holy Prophet, Rasulullah (sallallahu alaihi wasallam) has said:

"Actions are judged by intentions."

Last but not the least, if every Muslim follows the rules of Shariah then Inshallah no one will ever go astray. I hope I have conveyed my message and eradicated the misconceptions of my friends and Allah knows Best!

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