to the place of filth and harm—Allah’s protection is sought—while abandoning the wives Allah created for them, even if they are among the most beautiful of women.

Shaykh al-Islam said: It is forbidden to look at him—that is, at a young man whose being looked at is feared to cause temptation—if one takes enjoyment or pleasure in looking at him, for this is evil. (1) How many a glance has cast turmoil into its beholder’s heart, as Imam Ahmad said. (2)

It is recommended for him to pray in two garments

His statement, “It is recommended for him to pray in two garments,” means that a person should pray in two garments, because they provide better covering. Two garments include an izār (waist-wrapper) and a ridāʾ (upper wrap).

A single garment may be a full upper wrap in which one envelops oneself, and it is authentically reported that the Prophet, peace and blessings be upon him, prayed wrapped in one. (3) Or it may be an izār, for it is authentically reported that the Prophet, peace and blessings be upon him, said to Jabir ibn Abdullah, may Allah be pleased with them both: “If it is narrow, then wrap it around your waist.” (4)

Thus, a single garment is sufficient, whether it is a full garment in which one wraps his entire body or an izār. Jabir ibn Abdullah, may Allah be pleased with them both, once prayed wearing an izār, while his upper wrap was hanging on a clothes rack. A man reminded him of this, and he said, “I did this so that a fool like you would see it,” (5) meaning, an ignorant person, not one who behaves badly; for