Discover the scientific wisdom behind the prohibition of seclusion between unrelated men and women in Islam. Learn about the scientific facts concerning the danger of cortisol hormone due to seclusion.
Islam is a comprehensive religion that regulates all aspects of human life. One of the aspects it governs is the interaction between unrelated men and women, known as "mahram," meaning individuals who have no blood ties or legitimate marriage connections.
Islam forbids unrelated men and women from being alone together without the presence of a third party to protect them from the temptations of Satan. This prohibition is not arbitrary but holds significant scientific wisdom for the physical and mental health of individuals.
The Peril of Cortisol Hormone Due to Seclusion
One of the scientific wisdoms behind the prohibition of seclusion is to prevent the rise of cortisol hormone in the body. Cortisol is a hormone produced by the adrenal glands in response to stress. It plays a crucial role in helping the body cope with emergencies, regulating blood pressure, metabolism, the immune system, and more.
However, if cortisol levels remain consistently high in the body, it can lead to adverse effects, including an increased risk of heart disease, hypertension, diabetes, obesity, sleep disturbances, depression, and decreased sexual function.
According to a scientific study conducted by researchers at the University of Valencia and published in the Daily Telegraph in 2010, cortisol levels significantly increase when an unrelated man is alone with an unrelated woman. This increase is attributed to the sexual attraction between the two, causing the man to fantasize about an intimate relationship with the woman.
The study also indicated that the more attractive the woman is, the higher the cortisol levels produced by the man's body. This effect does not occur when a man is alone with his mahram, such as his mother, sister, or close relatives. Similarly, it does not occur when a man is alone with an unrelated man.
The Marvel of Islamic Sharia in Safeguarding Human Health
From the explanations above, we can see that the prohibition of seclusion between unrelated men and women holds significant scientific wisdom for human health. By avoiding seclusion, we can prevent the elevation of cortisol hormones that can harm our bodies and minds. Additionally, we can safeguard our honor from sinful actions that may lead us into damnation.
Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) emphasized the prohibition of seclusion in his sayings, such as:
"Remember, a man should never be alone with a woman (who is not his mahram), as the third among them is Satan." (Sunan Tirmidhi no. 20165)
"A man should not be alone with a woman unless she is his mahram." (Bukhari no. 4904)
These prohibitions demonstrate that the Prophet cared deeply for the well-being of his followers, both in this world and the Hereafter. He never spoke without evidence and proof, so his teachings align with scientific facts. Even Western studies corroborate the correctness of Islamic teachings.
Therefore, as obedient and intelligent Muslims, we must wholeheartedly follow Islamic sharia without hesitation. We should distance ourselves from anything forbidden by Allah and His Messenger, including seclusion with unrelated individuals. By doing so, we will attain goodness and health in this world and safety and happiness in the Hereafter. Wallahu a'lam. (Allah knows best)
Source: Daily Telegraph
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