Authenticity of the opinion that a woman's voice is `Awrah

Q 2: It is well known that women may take part in Islamic battles. It is also acknowledged that they are permitted to be witnesses in matters which relate to selling, buying, and debts with the testimony given by two of them equaling that of one man. Nevertheless, we hear many of those who claim that they are knowledgeable of Fiqh (Islamic jurisprudence) giving Fatwas to the effect that women's voice is `Awrah (something that should be hidden in public) while we know that Allah states in the Glorious Qur'an: ...but speak in an honourable manner. Moreover, the Prophet's wives (may Allah be pleased with them all) would teach people matters of their Din (religion) and would narrate the Hadith of the Prophet. Is the Fatwa which states that women's voice is `Awrah thus correct? Please quote the proofs for your answer and support it with names of booklets or books if possible. May Allah reward you with the best.

A: Women's voice is not `Awrah in itself. It is only Haram (prohibited) to listen to a woman's voice when its tone is suggestive or alluring. A woman's husband is excepted from this prohibition. Likely, it is Haram for a woman to speak in such a manner in the presence of men other than her husband. A proof for this is Allah's statement: O wives of the Prophet! You are not like any other women. If you keep your duty (to Allâh), then be not soft in speech, lest he in whose heart is a disease (of hypocrisy, or evil desire for adultery) should be moved with desire, but speak in an honourable manner. (Part No. 17; Page No. 203) May Allah grant us success. May peace and blessings be upon our Prophet Muhammad, his family, and Companions.