I have come across this point of view recently that
swimming for women is un-Islamic, even if this is done in an area to which no
man has access. Could you please comment on this? Also, can you please tell of a
religiously acceptable dress-code for swimming for women?
I think the view you’ve come across is based on a
very strict understanding of something. The requirements of dress and general behaviour for men and women while in each others’ company have been mentioned
clearly in the Qur’an: “What is binding on Muslim women is that [like men are
expected to do regarding women], they should keep their gazes in check while in
the company of men [which means that they should not stare at each other nor
look at the private parts of each other], and they should wear clothes that
properly cover their private parts [so that they don’t appear prominent]. In
addition, women have also been asked to properly cover their chests and, if they
embellish themselves, they should not disclose their beautifying make up and
ornaments except for what is apparent to anyone; this is not binding if they are
in the presence of close male relatives with whom they are not allowed to marry
because of closeness of their relations with them.” (24: 30-31)
If women are swimming with their bodies adequately covered
and there are no men around, why should there be any problem in that from an
Islamic point of view? While swimming for ladies living in urban areas may be
regarded as a luxury, for women living in places where they have to travel on
boats, launches etc., in lakes, rivers and seas etc., it becomes a matter of
life and death for them to be able to swim. The shari‘ah is interested only in
the fact that promiscuity and lewdness is avoided and that men and women should
be dressed in the proper manner.
Courtesy:
http://www.islamicissues.info/qa_question.php?qid=570
