Ruling on looking at one's paternal cousin and eating with her

Question:
In his final question, he says: This brother from Sudan, I have learned that looking at a woman is forbidden. If I have a paternal cousin who lives with us, cooks the food, and we eat it together while I look at her, what is required of me? Is my action correct? Please guide us in this matter, O Shaykh.

Answer:
It is not permissible for you to do that. It is obligatory for you to lower your gaze, and it is obligatory for her to cover herself. She should not eat with you; she should eat alone with the women. Your paternal cousin is not a mahram (a relative one may not marry) to you; you are permitted to marry her. Therefore, it is obligatory for you to lower your gaze, it is obligatory for her to cover herself, and it is obligatory for you to avoid being alone with her and to avoid looking at her. Yes, because this is a trial and one of the causes of evil.

The presenter : May Allah reward you with good, Your Eminence the Shaykh.