While it is permissible for a brother and sister to share a room in Islam, it is preferable for them to sleep in separate rooms, particularly as they approach puberty.
Islam places great emphasis on modesty, privacy, and safeguarding against potential fitna (temptation or discord). As children mature, the need for personal space and privacy becomes more pronounced.
Here's a breakdown of the considerations:
-
Modesty and Privacy: As children grow, they become more aware of their bodies and the opposite gender. Separate rooms help maintain modesty and prevent unintentional exposure.
-
Potential for Temptation (Fitna): While the bond between siblings is strong, separating sleeping arrangements minimizes the potential for any inappropriate thoughts or actions, especially during adolescence.
-
Practical Considerations: Sharing a room can become challenging as children develop different routines, study habits, and sleep schedules. Separate rooms provide greater independence and personal space.
-
Acceptable Circumstances: If separate rooms are not feasible due to limited space or financial constraints, sharing a room is permissible provided certain guidelines are followed:
- Separate Beds: Each sibling should have their own bed.
- Separate Bedding: Each sibling should have their own blanket and bedding.
- Modest Attire: Both siblings should dress modestly, especially when changing clothes.
In summary, while not strictly forbidden, Islamic teachings encourage separate sleeping arrangements for brothers and sisters as they mature to promote modesty, privacy, and prevent potential issues. If separate rooms are not possible, then guidelines regarding separate beds and modest attire should be observed.
