It is prohibited to learn, teach, use, and gain from magic in all its forms, even when used to stop [other] magic, unless it is [absolutely] necessary for a matter of greater benefit such as saving the life of a respected person who is under the influence of magic. As for harnessing jinn, it is prohibited if it harms a person who must not be harmed.

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If there is no presumption or signs that show the owner’s disapproval, there is no problem with it.

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It is permissible to mix and converse with the opposite sex provided that all religious limits are observed, including immunity from falling into sin, such as prohibited touching, looking with lust, joking, flirting, and similar acts that are not permissible with non-mahrams. Moreover, there is no difference between a non-relative of the opposite sex and a man’s sister-in-law, a woman’s brother-in-law, or cousins of the opposite sex when it comes to the application of the rules non-mahrams (i.e., they are all the same).

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It is permissible to congratulate the people of the book (Christians and Jews), as well as other non-Muslims, on the occasions that they celebrate, such as New Year’s Day, Christmas, and Easter. As for attending these gatherings and remaining silent about the unlawful acts committed there, it may be considered an endorsement and even encouragement for committing such unlawful acts. Additionally, forbidding the wrong when its conditions are fulfilled necessitates doing what is necessary to deter it, just as it is prohibited to eat at a table on which alcohol is served, and also to just sit at such a table based on obligatory precaution.

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One of the etiquette of attending these gatherings is to listen attentively as Allah Exalted says, “Whenever the Quran is recited (to you), listen to it quietly so that you may receive mercy.” The same conduct should be observed in the case of supplications, ziyarah, and sermon. Thus, whoever attends these gatherings and listens attentively to what is being said has honored them and is deserving of reward. On the other hand, if a person is unable to listen attentively they should not show disregard for it because this takes away the reward and blessings of these gatherings, “That. And whoever venerates the sacraments of Allah—indeed that arises from the God wariness of hearts.”

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This hinders the validity of ablution (wudu) and ritual washing (ghusl), therefore it is not permissible to use based on obligatory precaution unless, for example, it is necessary to lift an unbearable hardship. Moreover, if it is considered an ornament it must be covered [in front of a non-mahram male] based on obligatory precaution.

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If it does not involve promotion of corruption (prohibited practices) or misguidance, then there is no objection.

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It is permissible to congratulate or greet people of the book (i.e., Christians and Jews) or other religions on the occasions they celebrate, such as New Year’s Day, birth of Jesus (p) on Christmas, and Easter. And there is no problem participating in their celebrations per se, unless it entails engaging in impermissible practices or the promotion of false beliefs.

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Participation in elections (municipal, local or federal, or for representative councils or other such bodies) is of great importance in shaping the future of a country, society, and future generations. Whoever does not participate in elections to express their view, passively allows others to shape their future and the future of their children; this is a mistake that no citizen should fall into.

In fact, the critical interests of Muslims in non-Muslim countries may require that they seek membership in political parties. In such cases, it is permissible for Muslims to engage in these activities to the extent that it is needed to serve the interest [of the Muslim community], which should be determined by consulting the trustworthy experts in the community who have familiarity with such matters.

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The religious authority believes in the [harmonious] coexistence of all citizens of any nation regardless of their different religions, sects, and viewpoints. In addition to the importance of preserving their religious identity and noble traditions, Shia Muslims should integrate into the society of their home countries, wherever they may be. Accordingly, the religious authority wants Shia Muslims to manage their day-to-day affairs [within the boundaries of Islam] by referring to the trustworthy experts in their country, and according to what suits them and their circumstances. Hence, the religious authority does not interfere in their affairs unless requested by them, and provided that its involvement is beneficial to them given their conditions and circumstances.

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