Q: During Ramdhaan in the Haramain both at Makkah and Madinah they conduct Tahajjud namaaz in Jamaath during the last 10 days from 1 am to 2.30 am. Following this now a days the same method is being followed in mosques in our country (India) as well and also women participate in this congregation but of course in a enclosure segregated for women. Also now a days women attend Jummah namaaz in mosques on a regular basis. Please give your expert option on these two issues.
A: According to the Hanafi Mazhab performing nafil Salaah in jamaat is makrooh in the case where the jamaat comprises of more than four people (including the Imaam). Apart from this type of jamaat being makrooh, it is totally incorrect for women to be present and participate in this jamaat. Women are commanded to remain within the confines of their homes and not to leave their homes without a valid need.
Though women were allowed to attend the congregational salaah and the Eid salaah in the mubaarak era of Rasulullah (Sallallahu Alayhi Wasallam), however it was the burning desire of Rasulullah (Sallallahu Alayhi Wasallam) that women perform their salaah within the confines of their homes, thereby remaining completely concealed from the eyes of strange men. Hence we find that Rasulullah (Sallallahu Alayhi Wasallam) expressed his desire in many Ahaadith. Subsequently, during the era of the khilaafat of Hadhrat Umar (Radiyallah Anahu), the permission for women attending the congregational salaah was revoked on account of the fitnah witnessed due to women attending the congregational salaah. For further details refer to http://muftionline.co.za/node/4014
And Allah Ta'ala (الله تعالى) knows best.
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