Is washing both openings (Istinjaa`) a must before every ablution?

Washing the front and back openings (Istinjaa`) is a must in case they have an impurity, but if they do not, there is no need for that, and Istinjaa` is not a condition for the validity of ablution.

Is it permissible for a woman to ride a taxi without a Mahram (unmarriageable kin) in order to attend a gathering of knowledge?

It is permissible for the woman to pursue the knowledge that she needs in order to perform the religious requirements due on her if there was nobody to teach her at home, provided that there is no temptation involved. Moreover, we don`t recommend that she rides a taxi without a Mahram although such an act isn`t from the forbidden Khulwah (seclusion).

I work for a company whose manager refuses to allow employees to leave during work hours. Do I incur sin if I secretly went out to join the congregation at the Masjid? Is doing so considered a breach of trust?

Praise be to the Lord of the Worlds.

We recommend that you pray at work to encourage your colleagues to follow suit, because whoever guides to good has the like of the reward of the person who actually does it. And Allah The Almighty Knows Best.

What is the ruling on staring at the Holy Ka'abah?

All perfecy praise be to Allah, The Lord of The Worlds and may His Peace and Blessings be upon our Prophet Muhammad and upon all of his family and companions.

Staring/looking at the Holy Ka'abah is an act of worship even if this took place while performing a prayer, since Al-Baihaqee stated that the Prophet (PBUH) said: " Staring at the Holy Ka'abah is an act of devotion." [Sho'aab Al-Imaan]. And Allah Knows Best.