• What is the expiation for using perfumed soap while being in a state of Ihram(ritual consecration) for Umrah(after making the intent for Ihram)?
It is impermissible to use perfumed soap while being in a state of Ihram, and one who does so is obliged to fast, give Sadaqa(charity), or offer a sacrifice in expiation: He/she either fast for three days, feed six needy persons from the Haram area(one kilo of rice for each), or sacrifice an animal within the boundaries of that area and divide it amongst the poor and needy there. However, it is permissible for him/her to offer fasting after going home.
• Is it permissible to offer an absentee funeral prayer?
Yes, it is permissible to offer an absentee funeral prayer.
• Is a woman`s voice `awrah even when praising the Prophet (PBUH) via satellite channels?
Praise be to Allah the Lord of the Worlds. May His peace and blessings be upon our Prophet Mohammad and upon all his family and companions.
`Awrah has two meanings. First: `Awarah that invalidates prayer when uncovered, and in this sense a woman`s voice isn`t considered `awrah. Second: `Awrah that causes men to be tempted by women and vice versa. Moreover, if a woman`s voice is soft or alluring, then it is forbidden for her to speak deliberately before strange men. This is because Almighty Allah says {What means}: "O ye wives of the Prophet! Ye are not like any other women. If ye keep your duty (to Allah), then be not soft of speech, lest he in whose heart is a disease aspire (to you), but utter customary speech." {Al-Ahzab, 32}. However, a man should avoid listening whatever incites his desires. And Allah the Almighty knows best.
• What is the ruling on going out wearing a long loose skirt with a long shirt that are neither tight nor revealing and without wearing any makeup?
All perfect praise be to Allah the Lord of the Worlds. May Allah`s peace and blessings be upon our Prophet Mohammad and upon all his family and companions.
This is permissible as long as it doesn`t attract the attention and isn`t considered adornment, and this varies according to the environment in which you live. And Allah the Almighty knows best.