Shopping and Purdah???

Question

I am in full Purdah. As a result I feel free to go around doing my own shopping in the supermarkets. My husband does not mind. However, my brother objects and claims that it is not proper for me to go to supermarkets. even if I am in full Purdah dress. What are the Shariah’s views on this matter?

Answer

Purdah is not restricted to only dress and niqaab (face-veil). Dress is only part of Hijaab (Purdah). The Qur’aan Shareef commands women:
“And, remain firmly inside your homes, and do not make a display of yourselves like the exhibitions of Jaahiliyyah.”
The Shariah teaches that women should remain within the confines of the home and not emerge unnecessarily. You are wrong to feel free to wander about outside the home. It is haraam for you to go to the supermarkets to do shopping. When a woman emerges from her home, Rasulullah  (Sallallaahu 'Alayhi Wasallam)  said that shaitaan lays in ambush for her. The curse of ALLAAH Ta’aalaa descends on women who venture into the streets and public places.