Lowering the gaze on the part of a Muhrim

Q 2: A young married women performed Hajj (pilgrimage) with us. She was Mutabarrijah (a woman who makes a public display of her charms or adornment) and she was very beautiful. I had lustful desire due to my looking at her, but I did not do anything to her and never touched her with lust. I just kept thinking of her because of her beauty. But I only remember that I placed my hand on her shoulder, as I used to think of her, to protect her from the crowdedness. Am I sinful for this act of mine? Please provide me with a legal opinion. May Allah benefit you. (Part No. 10; Page No. 126)

A: It is an obligation upon the one in the state of Ihram (ceremonial state for Hajj or 'Umrah) and everyone else to lower their gaze from what Allah has prohibited. This obligation is more emphasized in the case of the Muhrim (pilgrim in the ritual state for Hajj and 'Umrah), because he has engaged in this honored state of Ihram. Allah (Exalted be He) says: So whosoever intends to perform Hajj therein (by assuming Ihrâm), then he should not have sexual relations (with his wife), nor commit sin, nor dispute unjustly during the Hajj. Therefore, you must ask Allah for forgiveness for what you have done. Allah Willing, your Hajj is valid.