Question:
Is it permissible for a woman to uncover parts of her body, such as her legs, chest, or similar areas, in the presence of her Mahrams, such as her sons, brothers, and others? Furthermore, is there a distinction in this regard between male and female Mahrams, considering that exposing such parts of the ‘Awrah (private areas) may trigger latent instincts, especially among adolescents?
Answer:
In truth, it deeply saddens me that such matters are even being researched or discussed. In the past, women were characterized by concealment, the wearing of the hijab, and modesty. However, as people began to mix more frequently with others—whether through those coming from abroad or by traveling to other countries—these issues and inquiries began to surface. There is no doubt that the more a woman covers herself, even in the presence of her Mahrams, regarding those parts that might stir instincts, the better it is. Shaykhul-Islam Ibn Taymiyyah (may Allah have mercy on him) mentioned in his treatise The Raiment of Women that the women of the Sahaba used to wear garments in their homes that covered them from the palm of the hand to the ankle; from the palm on the arm to the ankle on the leg. They would not expose a shin or a forearm. However, if it were the case that a woman uncovered her forearm for housework while in the presence of her Mahrams or other women, there is no harm in that. Likewise, if she bared her shin for work while among her Mahrams or women, this is permissible.
As for adopting short clothing that only covers to the knee, or only covers to the elbow, it is feared that this falls under the saying of the Messenger (peace and blessings be upon him): “There are two types of the people of Hellfire whom I have not yet seen: people with whips like the tails of cattle with which they strike the people, and women who are clothed yet naked, walking with an enticing gait and leading others astray. They will not enter Paradise nor even smell its fragrance, though its fragrance can be detected from such-and-such a distance.”
My advice to my sisters among women is to avoid these garments and ensure their clothing is concealing. My advice to their guardians is to not permit women to wear clothing that contradicts the requirements of the Sharia.