:sl:
format_quote Originally Posted by
Alpha Dude
Dating involves being romantically attached. So, unless you both have romantic feelings, it's just a unique friendship.
The question is, is dating the bottom line of what's not allowed in Islam, or is there more to it than that? For example, we know that it is disallowed for a man and woman who are not mahrams, to be alone together, regardless of whether there are romantic feelings. Simply, it is that seclusion or being alone together which isn't allowed.
In effect, you're meeting a non-mahram female, without any real necessity. While for older (Muslim) women, the Qur'an says they can opt not to wear the outer covering garment they'd wear over their clothes, it says that it's better to refrain (24:60). Her age here makes no difference though to being alone with a non-mahram male, as the verses and ahadeeth on hijaab and intergender relations take no account of age, other than pre-puberty.
Also, you're taking unnecessary favours from her (e.g. her paying for your food). Never take unnecessary favours from anyone. They can backfire on you. She may ask you a favour you're uncomfortable doing, but because she's paid for your food, you'll feel an obligation. You could be steering yourself into a corner there.
Even if you are in a public place, doesn't make it much better. There's no one else that's party to your conversation. Imagine if a Muslim girl went out and met a 67 year old non-mahram man, every day, even in a public place. It wouldn't be right or acceptable. And if you swap the genders in that situation, the same applies.
And Allah knows best.