Lowering the gaze is a command from Allah that helps protect the heart, guard modesty, and uphold purity in society. It is not just about averting the eyes from unlawful sights, but also a discipline that nurtures inner modesty and self-restraint.
Allah commands:
قُل لِّلْمُؤْمِنِينَ يَغُضُّوا۟ مِنْ أَبْصَـٰرِهِمْ وَيَحْفَظُوا۟ فُرُوجَهُمْ ۚ ذَٰلِكَ أَزْكَىٰ لَهُمْ ۗ إِنَّ ٱللَّهَ خَبِيرٌۭ بِمَا يَصْنَعُونَ
"Tell the believing men to lower their gaze and guard their chastity. That is purer for them. Indeed, Allah is well aware of what they do."
— Surah An-Nur (24:30)
And similarly for women in the next verse (24:31).
The Prophet ﷺ said:
"النَّظْرَةُ سَهْمٌ مَسْمُومٌ مِنْ سِهَامِ إِبْلِيسَ"
"The (unlawful) gaze is a poisoned arrow from the arrows of Shayṭān."
— Al-Hakim (Authentic)
The Sahaba were careful in this matter. Ali ibn Abi Talib (RA) reported:
"The Prophet ﷺ told me: 'Do not give a second glance, for the first is forgiven,