(27–29) “O you who believe, do not enter houses other than your own until you ascertain that you are welcome and greet their inhabitants. That is better for you, so that you may take heed. *”

The Creator directs His believing servants not to enter houses other than their own without first seeking permission, for doing so entails several harms. One of them is that mentioned by the Messenger (peace and blessings be upon him), who said, “Permission to enter was prescribed only because of the gaze.” Neglecting it may expose to view the private matters within homes. A person’s house conceals what lies within it just as clothing conceals the private parts of his body.

Another harm is that entering in this manner arouses suspicion concerning the entrant, who may be suspected of some evil, such as theft or something else, because entering secretly suggests ill intent. Allah therefore forbade believers to enter houses other than their own “until they ascertain that they are welcome”—that is, until they seek permission. Asking permission is described here as ascertaining welcome because it brings reassurance and familiarity, whereas its absence produces unease and estrangement. “And greet their inhabitants.” The manner of doing so is described in the hadith: “Peace be upon you. May I enter?”

“That”—meaning the aforementioned request for permission—“is better for you, so that you may take heed,” because it comprises several benefits and is among the noble manners that are obligatory. If permission is granted, the person seeking entry may enter.