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Its time for another clarification on freemixing and related matters in light of peoples' recommendation that we do something about the issue. Here, then, is our response. Our thanks to a few forumites in helping put this together; indeed consultation is a beautiful thing!
(Updated) Forum free-mixing rules
The word free (http://www.thefreedictionary.com/free) means "Not affected or restricted by a given condition or circumstance"
The word mix (http://www.thefreedi...nary.com/mixing) or mixing means "To become blended together"
If we take freemixing to them mean 'to blend together without restraint' then the Islamic implications for this should be clear. Freemixing can be defined as when members of the opposite gender engage in conversation or discussion which is unnecessary, distracting and or deviating from the discussion at hand.
It is important to maintain a formal manner when replying in a mixed forum so as to prevent jesting and the like with the opposite gender and also to observe hayaa (http://www.islamicdawah.mobilixnet.dk/isla...20for%20men.htm) (modesty). This should apply to both genders and is not restricted to sisters alone.
Here at 7cgen, we have segregated sections for the brothers and sisters to laugh and converse freely. The main forum is for intellectual discussion to take place from which we may all benefit. As a result, several rules should be followed which allow all members to maintain adhaab in discussions.
The premise for these rules is simple. Imagine each thread is a separate talk. A talk taking place in a hall with brothers on one side and sisters on another, If we treat the online space the same way as we would interact in real life, a lot of the excess conversation that takes place may be omitted.
Guidelines:
· Topics of discussion must have relevance to Islam and be appropriate to discuss between members of both genders.
· Exercise restraint when replying, this includes keeping your post to the point only.
· Maintain a formal and respectable manner when replying in a mixed forum so as to prevent jesting to observe hayaa. Abdullah ibn Umar (ra) narrated that the Prophet (saw) said: "Indeed haya (modesty) and Iman are Companions. When one of them is lifted, the other leaves as well." (Baihaqi)
· Be very aware that what you are writing is a public expression of who you are and what you think, so observe haya
· Topics which lead to members discussing and disclosing their personal interests/like/dislikes and engage in social chat i.e a "get to know each other" thread are not permitted in the main section, go for it in the segregated section.
· Refrain from engaging in a personal, off topic and irrelevant conversation. Let it be clarified that engaging in a personal, off topic and irrelevant conversation with the opposite gender is free mixing, engaging in a personal, off topic and irrelevant conversation with the same gender is leaving the floor open to free mixing and should be avoided.
· Do not speak/reply to the opposite gender in the manner you would to your friend. The forum is not to be misused to build social internet relationships with the opposite gender. Interaction between genders must not contain flirtatious elements
· If you would like to show appreciation of another's humour, express yourself in a polite and concise manner which does not detract from the discussion at hand, much like if you were to laugh at a joke made by a brother in real life, you would maybe giggle but not Roll Around On The Floor Laughing. When making a joke, keep in mind the possibility that it may derail the discussion and use your common sense.
· Ask yourself is, 'Is what I am about to say beneficial to the discussion at hand?' Consider and then reconsider before you submit a post with smiley's. Are they vital to delivering your intended message? Use them sparingly for maximum effect.
· Address members of the opposite gender by their full username, or as brother/sister, ukhti/akhi, unless the person has expressly advised that they do not mind being addressed by another name or nickname.
· The forum discourages free mixing between brothers and sisters at all levels, on the forum and via PM. After righteousness has been encouraged, what a brother and sister do behind 'closed doors' is between them and Allah swt. So we should all encourage each other to act well in public and private but the onus on us to enjoin the good and forbid the evil in private is different.
It's all about common sense really. Just ask yourself if I was at a talk in real life, would I say this out loud in the presence of the opposite gender? Would I laugh this loudly? Would I make this sarcastic comment? If not.. then don't do it in the main discussions either, that's what the segregated sections are for.. feel free to do so in there!
We hope this has been a good reminder
as well as a good clarification.Wassalamu Alaikum
Admin Team, 7th Century Generation
Confused.
