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Hijab in Islam is not merely a piece of fabric covering the head; it is a symbol of spiritual identity and an expression of profound human values. Although hijab is practised by millions of women around the world, many questions surround it, especially in non-Muslim environments. These questions may stem from sincere curiosity or from a misunderstanding that needs clarifying.
In this article, we shed light on fourteen of the most common questions put to the Muslim woman who wears hijab, whether in her daily life or while travelling to different societies. The answers are presented in a style that combines scholarship and humanity, to serve as a reference that helps women who wear hijab respond with confidence and clarity when facing these questions, whether they stem from curiosity, admiration, or even criticism.
These answers are not only meant to clarify concepts; they also address the human fiṭra (innate nature) that seeks truth and inner peace. When travelling, these questions can become an opportunity to build positive dialogue and convey a bright image of the philosophy of hijab and its deep aims. Hijab is not an obstacle; it is a choice of deep meaning that brings out the spiritual and human dimensions of a woman.
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Whether you are a woman who wears hijab looking for a way to express your convictions, or a curious person who wants a deeper understanding, we hope this article will be a guide that enriches dialogue and deepens mutual understanding.
Question One: Is Hijab a Personal Choice or a Religious Obligation?
Suggested Answer:
Hijab in Islam is a blend of personal choice and religious commitment.
The religious aspect: Allah, Glorified and Exalted is He, commanded hijab as a means of protecting dignity and preserving the relationship between men and women within a framework of mutual respect. As the Holy Quran states: "وَقُل لِّلْمُؤْمِنَاتِ يَغْضُضْنَ مِنْ أَبْصَارِهِنَّ وَيَحْفَظْنَ فُرُوجَهُنَّ وَلَا يُبْدِينَ زِينَتَهُنَّ إِلَّا مَا ظَهَرَ مِنْهَا" "And tell the believing women to lower their gaze, guard their chastity, and not display their adornment except what [ordinarily] appears of it"
(al-Nūr: 31).
This means that hijab is not merely an appearance; it is an expression of the values of self-respect and taqwā (consciousness of Allah).
The personal aspect: Hijab is also worn by one's own decision, arising from conviction and faith. Every woman has the right to choose to commit, because Islam compels no one; true faith springs from the heart. This choice may stem from love of the values that hijab represents, such as modesty, freedom from superficial judgement, and focusing on substance rather than appearance.
A Practical Example:
Imagine placing a precious jewel in a beautiful box to protect it. Hijab is like this box: it is not there to restrict a woman, but to provide an environment that respects her and values her essential worth instead of judging her by her appearance alone.
A Touch of Fiṭra:
Every human being, by fiṭra, loves to be respected for their character and deeds, not for their outward appearance alone. Hijab helps to bring out this deeper human dimension, so that a person is treated as an individual with a soul and a mind, not merely a form.
Conclusion:
The Muslim woman sees hijab as part of the spiritual relationship between her and Allah; even so, it is always a choice springing from the heart, not merely an external command.
Question Two: Do You Face Challenges Wearing Hijab in Your Country or While Travelling?
Suggested Answer:
Yes, there may be challenges, but they are not a permanent obstacle.
Challenges may arise from misunderstanding or preconceived judgements, but when a person is clear and confident in their principles, they can overcome them easily.
At home:
Hijab is sometimes misunderstood even within Muslim societies, where it is thought to be merely a cultural tradition or a symbol of restriction. But for me, it is a symbol of true freedom, because it reminds me that I am not obliged to satisfy the physical standards or measures of beauty that society sets.
While travelling:
In some countries, hijab may be new to people, or it may be associated with particular political or social ideas. When I encounter questions or strange looks, I see it as an opportunity to present a bright image of hijab as a choice springing from faith and love, not from coercion or constraint.
And I always say to those who ask: "Difference does not mean division; it is an opportunity to get to know one another."
A Practical Example:
Once, I was at a European airport, and a woman asked me to explain why I wear hijab. After I explained that hijab represents my freedom to choose how I present myself to the world, not how the world wants to see me, she smiled and said: "I had never thought about it that way before!"
A Touch of Fiṭra:
Every human being, by fiṭra, seeks respect. When we understand that other people's appearance may be a reflection of their values and their self-respect, we begin to look at them with new eyes.
Supporting Hadith:
From Imam ʿAlī (peace be upon him): "ثمرة الحياء العفة." "The fruit of modesty is chastity."
Hijab is part of this modesty; it is not weakness, but a strength that enables a person to stand firm in the face of society's challenges.
Conclusion:
Challenges exist, but they do not deter a person who knows the value of what they do. Hijab is not merely a covering, but a silent message that says: "I define my identity, not others."
Question Three: How Does Hijab Affect Your Daily Life?
Suggested Answer:
Hijab does not hinder my daily life; rather, it adds to it a dimension of order and focus on what matters most.
On a practical level:
I live my life like any other woman; I work, I learn, I exercise, and I take part in social activities. Hijab is not an obstacle, but a framework that reminds me of my worth as a human being before anything else. If clothing is a means of comfort and work, hijab provides that.
On a psychological level:
Hijab gives me a sense of inner peace, for it expresses my commitment to my principles and keeps me away from the social pressure tied to appearances. In a world full of superficial evaluations, hijab makes me focus on what lies deeper: who I am, and what I offer people.
On a social level:
It is true that some may misunderstand at times, but many respect this choice when I show them that it represents part of my spiritual and human identity. It is like a declaration: "I express myself, not what others want me to be."
A Practical Example:
Imagine someone wearing earphones in a crowded place. These earphones help them concentrate and shut out the noise. Hijab is similar; it helps me filter what surrounds me and focus on what matters most in my life.
A Touch of Fiṭra:
Every human being loves to control how they present themselves to others. Hijab gives me this control, because it reflects my choice and my view of myself.
Supporting Verse:
Allah the Exalted says: "ذَٰلِكَ أَدْنَىٰ أَن يُعْرَفْنَ فَلَا يُؤْذَيْنَ" "That is more fitting, so that they will be recognised and not be harmed"
(al-Aḥzāb: 59).
Hijab preserves a woman's identity, protects her from superficial evaluation, and makes her known to others as a dignified human being.
Conclusion:
Hijab is neither a restriction nor a burden; rather, it is a means of expressing oneself with spirituality and respect. It makes my daily life more focused, and simpler in dealing with others.
Question Four: Does Hijab Reflect a Particular Level of Religiosity?
Suggested Answer:
Hijab is not the sole measure of one's level of religiosity; rather, it is part of a comprehensive system of values that includes ethics, worship, and how one treats others. A person is measured by their deeds and character, not only by their appearance.
The religious dimension:
Hijab is part of obedience to Allah, but it does not necessarily mean that the woman who wears it is more religious than one who does not. True religiosity includes truthfulness, kindness, and good character. Imam Jaʿfar al-Ṣādiq (peace be upon him) says: "لا تنظروا إلى طول ركوع الرجل وسجوده، فإن ذلك شيء اعتاده فلو تركه استوحش لذلك، ولكن انظروا إلى صدق حديثه وأداء أمانته." "Do not look at the length of a man's bowing and prostration, for that is something he has grown accustomed to, and if he abandoned it he would feel uneasy; rather, look at the truthfulness of his speech and his fulfilment of his trust."
The human dimension:
Every person is on a personal journey with their religion and faith. Some may choose hijab as a beginning of drawing closer to Allah, while others may be at other stages of this journey. What matters is sincere intention and working to improve oneself.
A practical perspective:
Hijab is like a language that expresses part of one's relationship with Allah, but it is not the whole story. Just as wearing a particular uniform at work does not mean you are the best in your field; rather, it is actions that prove competence.
A Practical Example:
Imagine someone wearing sportswear: their performance depends on training and commitment, not only on the clothing. Hijab is similar; it is a step that reflects an inner value, but it does not determine everything.
A Touch of Fiṭra:
Fiṭra calls a person to focus on substance before form. When we judge people based on their appearance alone, we lose the chance to understand their depths and appreciate their deeds.
Supporting Verse:
Allah the Exalted says: "إِنَّ أَكْرَمَكُمْ عِندَ اللَّهِ أَتْقَاكُمْ" "Indeed, the most noble of you in the sight of Allah is the most mindful of Him among you"
(al-Ḥujurāt: 13).
Allah does not look at appearances, but at taqwā, which is a reflection of a person's character and sincerity.
Conclusion:
Hijab is part of the picture of religiosity, but it is not the only measure. Islam teaches us to judge people by their deeds and character, not by their appearances alone.
Question Five: What Are the Different Types of Hijab and Their Meanings?
Suggested Answer:
Hijab differs in form and design across cultures and societies, but it carries one shared meaning: modesty and the expression of spiritual values.
The variety of forms shows the diversity of Muslims around the world, and it is a reflection of the beauty of Islam as a universal religion.
Common types:
The traditional hijab: covers the hair and neck, leaving the face uncovered. It is the most common.
The khimār: covers the hair, shoulders, and chest, and is used in some Arab and Asian cultures.
The niqāb: covers the entire face except the eyes, and is considered a personal choice in some societies.
The chador: a long cloak covering the whole body, common in Iran.
The burqa: covers the entire face with a small mesh over the eyes, and is a tradition in some regions of South Asia.
Shared meanings:
Spirituality: it reflects commitment to Allah's teachings and the pursuit of taqwā.
Identity: it expresses cultural and religious belonging.
Inner freedom: it represents a refusal to submit to social standards that focus on outward beauty.
A Practical Example:
Just as formal dress differs from one country to another yet shows respect for the occasion, hijab differs in form yet shows a woman's respect for herself and her spiritual values.
A Touch of Fiṭra:
Fiṭra calls a person to stand out without abandoning their values. Hijab gives a woman this space, as she chooses how to express herself while maintaining her self-respect.
Supporting Hadith:
From Imam ʿAlī (peace be upon him): "جمال المرأة في سترها." "A woman's beauty lies in her covering."
True beauty lies in the values a person carries, not only in their outward appearance.
Conclusion:
The types of hijab are not merely forms; they are cultural and religious symbols that reflect the diversity of Muslims together with their unity in values. This diversity is what makes Islam a universal religion that embraces all cultures and differences.
Question Six: Does Hijab Affect Opportunities for Work or Education?
Suggested Answer:
Hijab in itself does not prevent a woman from working or studying, but it may face challenges depending on the society or environment. What matters is that a woman who wears hijab, like all other women, has the same abilities and ambitions, and hijab does not determine her competence.
In Islam:
Islam encourages education and work for everyone, men and women alike. Hijab is not a barrier to achieving ambitions. Lady Fāṭima al-Zahrāʾ (peace be upon her) says: "خَيرٌ لِلْمَرأةِ أنْ لا تَرى رَجُلاً وَلا يَراها رَجُلٌ." "It is best for a woman that she does not see a man and that no man sees her.", meaning that the more an environment respects women, the greater their capacity to produce and create without discrimination. [CHECK: the stated explanation does not clearly follow from the quoted saying]
In reality:
There are successful women who wear hijab in various fields: education, medicine, engineering, politics, and the arts. Competence and skills are what determine success, not what a woman wears.
Hijab adds a distinctive element to a woman, showing her attachment to her identity and values while she takes part in building society.
A Practical Example:
At one company, a colleague who wears hijab gave an outstanding presentation on a technical project. Although she had faced challenges because of hijab, the quality of her work earned her praise and recognition, which shows that hard work outweighs prejudice.
A Touch of Fiṭra:
Every human being, by fiṭra, wants to be valued on the basis of their work, not their appearance. Hijab invites society to value a woman on the basis of her achievements.
Supporting Verse:
Allah the Exalted says: "وَأَنْ لَيْسَ لِلْإِنْسَانِ إِلَّا مَا سَعَىٰ" "And that there is nothing for a human being except what he strives for"
(al-Najm: 39).
Success depends on striving and work, not on clothing.
Conclusion:
Hijab does not hinder education or work; rather, the woman who wears hijab proves that commitment to values does not conflict with ambition. A society that focuses on abilities instead of appearances is a society in which everyone can flourish.
Question Seven: How Do You Deal with Society's Reactions to Hijab?
Suggested Answer:
Society's reactions to hijab vary: some are positive and reflect respect for diversity, while others may stem from misunderstanding or prejudice. The most important way of dealing with these reactions is self-confidence and positive communication.
Dealing with curiosity:
When someone asks me about hijab, I see it as an opportunity to explain its value and meanings. I tell them that hijab is not a restriction, but a choice that expresses my identity and my respect for myself and for others. Curiosity often ends in understanding and respect.
Dealing with negative judgements:
If I face negative comments or discrimination, I focus on calm and reasoned responses. Through my conduct and actions, I show that I am a human being like anyone else, and that my choice to wear hijab does not diminish my competence or my humanity.
Imam ʿAlī (peace be upon him) says: "إن اللَّبِيبَ بِالإِشَارَةِ يَفْهَمُ، والجاهِلَ يَزْدَادُ غَيًّا بِالجَدَالِ." "The intelligent person understands from a hint, while the ignorant only increases in error through argument."
So I choose dialogue with open minds, and let my actions speak when discussion is of no use.
Showing self-confidence:
Hijab reflects my confidence in my identity. When I act with confidence and respect for others, this feeling passes to the people around me and removes barriers that may be built on misunderstanding.
A Practical Example:
Once, in a public place, a woman asked me: "Do you feel oppressed because you wear hijab?"
I smiled and said: "Quite the opposite; hijab is my choice, and it is what makes me feel free to express my identity. What about you, do you feel that your appearance expresses who you really are?"
This question made her think, and the conversation ended with mutual respect.
A Touch of Fiṭra:
Fiṭra calls a person to mutual respect. When we treat others with kindness and confidence, even those who misunderstand us may change their minds.
Supporting Verse:
Allah the Exalted says: "ادْفَعْ بِالَّتِي هِيَ أَحْسَنُ" "Repel [evil] with what is better"
(Fuṣṣilat: 34).
Responding with what is better reflects our character and removes misunderstanding.
Conclusion:
The varied reactions to hijab offer an opportunity to present a positive image of it. Through positive communication and self-confidence, any situation can be turned into an opportunity for understanding and for building bridges of respect.
Question Eight: Does Hijab Affect Playing Sports or Leisure Activities?
Suggested Answer:
Hijab does not hinder sports or leisure activities; rather, it can easily be adapted to suit the needs of each activity. The woman who wears hijab plays sports freely and modestly, with special designs that provide comfort and freedom of movement.
Sport with hijab:
Many sportswear companies today offer sportswear designed for women who wear hijab, such as the sports hijab, which is made of light, comfortable fabrics. This enables a woman who wears hijab to practise all kinds of sports, from running to swimming, efficiently and comfortably.
Taking part in leisure activities:
Hijab does not prevent participation in activities such as travel, climbing, cycling, or even water sports. Many women who wear hijab prove that modesty can go hand in hand with activity and vitality.
Practical evidence:
Many women who wear hijab achieve international sporting success, such as the runner "Iqbal al-Asaad" [CHECK: no runner of this name identified; possibly confused with another person] or the fencer "Ibtihaj Muhammad", who won an Olympic medal while wearing hijab. This is proof that performance is what counts, not appearance.
A Practical Example:
Imagine wearing clothing designed for cycling that also expresses your personality and keeps you comfortable. Hijab in sport is similar; it is part of one's identity, but it does not hinder movement.
A Touch of Fiṭra:
Every human being loves to pursue their activities freely while respecting their values. Hijab gives the woman who wears it the space to achieve this balance between preserving her identity and taking part in an active life.
Supporting Verse:
Allah the Exalted says: "وَجَاهِدُوا فِي اللَّهِ حَقَّ جِهَادِهِ" "And strive for Allah as He deserves to be striven for"
(al-Ḥajj: 78).
Striving for excellence and achieving goals is part of faith, and hijab does not diminish this ability.
Conclusion:
Hijab is not an obstacle to sports or leisure activities; rather, it is part of an identity that goes hand in hand with activity and movement. Every woman who wears hijab is able to achieve her dreams and live her life freely, while preserving her values.
Question Nine: What Advice Would You Give to Women Who Wish to Wear Hijab?
Suggested Answer:
Wearing hijab is a spiritual and personal journey. The advice I offer focuses on self-confidence and a deep understanding of the meanings of hijab, while taking into account each person's particular circumstances.
Begin with a sincere intention:
Wearing hijab is stronger when it springs from an intention to draw closer to Allah and to express spiritual values, rather than as a response to pressure. Allah the Exalted says: "إِنَّمَا الأَعْمَالُ بِالنِّيَّاتِ". "Actions are only by intentions." [CHECK: the source attributes this to Allah, but it is a well-known hadith of the Prophet, not a Quranic verse]
Learn about hijab:
Understand hijab as part of a system of modesty and dignity, not merely a head covering. Read the verses of the Holy Quran relating to it, such as the words of Allah the Exalted: "وَلَا يُبْدِينَ زِينَتَهُنَّ إِلَّا مَا ظَهَرَ مِنْهَا" "and not display their adornment except what [ordinarily] appears of it" (al-Nūr: 31), as well as scholars' explanations of its philosophy.
Start gradually if necessary:
If you feel the change is a big one, you can start with simple steps. What matters is that your progress springs from conviction and inner ease.
Choose a hijab that suits you:
There are many styles of hijab, and you can choose what suits your personality and circumstances. What matters is that it is comfortable and expresses your identity.
Be confident in yourself:
Hijab shows your strength and your confidence in your identity. If you are confident, others will notice and respect your choice.
Seek support:
Having friends or family who share these values makes the journey easier. Connecting with women who wear hijab can also inspire and support you.
Prepare for some challenges:
You may face difficult situations or questions. Consider them an opportunity to show the beauty and importance of hijab, rather than a source of worry.
A Practical Example:
Imagine joining a new training course. At first, you may feel anxious or uncomfortable, but over time you will feel confident and become part of the group. Wearing hijab is similar: a journey that begins with a small step but brings about a great change.
A Touch of Fiṭra:
Every human being, by fiṭra, loves to feel meaning and purpose in their choices. Hijab gives this feeling because it reflects a woman's respect for herself and for her relationship with her Creator.
Supporting Hadith:
From Imam Jaʿfar al-Ṣādiq (peace be upon him): "الحياءُ من الإيمان، والإيمانُ في الجنة." "Modesty is part of faith, and faith is in Paradise."
Hijab is an expression of the modesty that brings a person closer to spiritual perfection.
Conclusion:
Hijab is not merely a piece of fabric; it is a symbol of spiritual and personal values. Be true to yourself, and wear it with confidence and pride, for it expresses your identity and gives you a sense of inner peace.
Question Ten: Is Hijab Imposed on Girls from a Young Age?
Suggested Answer:
In Islam, hijab is required when a girl reaches puberty, and it is part of religious obligation (taklīf). But the way it is presented to a girl plays a major role in leading her to adopt it out of conviction and love, not compulsion.
In Islam:
Hijab is not a punishment or a pressure; it is a religious duty required when a girl is able to understand and practise it. Imam ʿAlī (peace be upon him) says: "لا تقسروا أولادكم على آدابكم، فإنهم مخلوقون لزمان غير زمانكم." "Do not force your children to adopt your manners, for they have been created for a time other than your time."
Gradual understanding encourages a girl to see hijab as part of her identity, not as a burden upon her.
The educational aspect:
Islamic upbringing encourages parents to instil the values of modesty and decency in children from a young age, while leaving them to come to know hijab as a spiritual value and a conscious choice when they grow up. Forcing a child can breed aversion instead of acceptance.
Dealing with reality:
In Muslim environments, hijab is sometimes worn from a young age as a cultural custom, not as a religious duty. This is good if it is done gently, in a way that makes the girl feel proud of it. What matters most is that the girl reaches a stage where she sees hijab as a choice that expresses her relationship with Allah.
A Practical Example:
Imagine a little girl who sees her mother wearing hijab with love and happiness. This girl will grow up seeing hijab as a natural and beautiful part of life, and will adopt it naturally when the time comes. But if she feels it is being forced on her, she may turn away from it.
A Touch of Fiṭra:
Human fiṭra loves freedom in making decisions, especially in personal matters. When hijab is presented as a choice that respects freedom, accepting it springs from fiṭra and faith.
Supporting Verse:
Allah the Exalted says: "لَا إِكْرَاهَ فِي الدِّينِ" "There is no compulsion in religion"
(al-Baqara: 256).
This teaches us that faith and commitment must come from conviction, not compulsion.
Conclusion:
Hijab is not imposed on girls from a young age; rather, it is required when they reach puberty. The best way to present hijab is through good example and a loving upbringing that lead a girl to see it as part of her spiritual identity. In this way, hijab becomes a symbol of pride and conviction, not a burden.
Question Eleven: What Is the Philosophy of Hijab? Why Was It Made Obligatory in Islam?
Suggested Answer:
The philosophy of hijab in Islam rests on human dignity, modesty, and the ordering of social relations in a way that preserves mutual respect. Hijab is not merely clothing; it is a means of achieving an environment founded on spiritual values and balance.
Human dignity:
Islam values the human being for the mind and soul they possess, not for their outward appearance. Hijab helps a woman to be valued for the thought and conduct she offers, not for the form or adornment she displays.
Protection from objectification:
Hijab prevents a woman from being reduced to her body or her appearance. Just as formal dress expresses a person's seriousness, hijab sends a clear message: "My worth is not in my appearance, but in my character and my work."
Balance in society:
Hijab regulates the relationship between men and women so that communication is built on respect and understanding, not on appearances or superficial desires. Allah the Exalted says: "ذَٰلِكَ أَدْنَىٰ أَن يُعْرَفْنَ فَلَا يُؤْذَيْنَ" "That is more fitting, so that they will be recognised and not be harmed" (al-Aḥzāb: 59).
Here hijab expresses a woman's identity and protects her from any unjust external evaluation.
A Practical Example:
Imagine a person who owns a valuable book but covers it to protect it from damage. The cover does not diminish the book's value; rather, it shows its importance. Hijab is similar; it is a means of preserving beauty and value.
A Touch of Fiṭra:
Every human being, by fiṭra, loves to be treated as a complete human being, not as an object evaluated on the basis of appearance. Hijab reflects this innate principle.
Supporting Hadith:
From Imam ʿAlī (peace be upon him): "عفاف المرأة زينتها." "A woman's chastity is her adornment."
Hijab is part of the chastity that lends a woman dignity and a beauty that goes beyond outward appearance.
Conclusion:
The philosophy of hijab is not a restriction but a message of respect: of a woman for herself, and of society in its relationships. Hijab refocuses us on what is essential in the human being, and creates a balance that preserves everyone's dignity.
Question Twelve: How Can a Woman Who Wears Hijab Deal with Negative Questions or Criticism About Hijab?
Suggested Answer:
Dealing with negative questions or criticism requires self-confidence, calm, and constructive dialogue. Criticism often results from misunderstanding or mistaken perceptions, so it can be turned into an opportunity for positive communication.
Take in the question or criticism:
Listen without rushing to judge. Often, the person is simply curious, not hostile. A calm response can change their point of view.
Respond with wisdom:
Allah the Exalted says: "ادْعُ إِلَىٰ سَبِيلِ رَبِّكَ بِٱلْحِكْمَةِ وَٱلْمَوْعِظَةِ ٱلْحَسَنَةِ" "Invite to the way of your Lord with wisdom and good admonition" (al-Naḥl: 125).
When you face criticism, be clear and direct without being defensive. Explain that hijab is a spiritual choice that reflects values of respect and modesty, not merely a social custom.
Focus on shared values:
Try to find common ground. For example, you could say: "Just as you love to be free to express yourself, hijab is my way of expressing my freedom and my self-respect."
Turn the situation into an opportunity:
If you sense hostility in the criticism, try not to take it personally. Instead, consider it an opportunity to clarify the values of hijab and refute misconceptions.
Show the strength of hijab through your confidence and conduct:
A person's actions are more influential than their words. When people see you confident, successful, and caring towards others, they naturally change their view of hijab.
A Practical Example:
If someone says: "Don't you feel that hijab restricts you?"
You could reply: "On the contrary, hijab makes me focus on what I offer as a human being, rather than being evaluated on the basis of my appearance. Have you ever felt that people judge you by your appearance alone?"
A Touch of Fiṭra:
Every human being, by fiṭra, wants to be understood and respected. Dealing with criticism positively makes the other party feel your respect, even if they are not convinced by your view.
Supporting Hadith:
From Imam ʿAlī (peace be upon him): "الكلمة الطيبة جواز المرور إلى القلوب." "A good word is the passport to hearts." [CHECK: attribution to Imam ʿAlī could not be confirmed; the wording appears modern]
Responding with a good word changes how others see things and leaves a positive impact.
Conclusion:
The woman who wears hijab is able to face criticism with confidence and awareness. Hijab reflects values of respect, and the wiser the responses, the more others respect this choice. Turn criticism into an opportunity for positive dialogue, and be a living example of the beauty of the values that hijab represents.
Question Thirteen: Does Hijab Stop You from Being Modern or Keeping Up with Fashion?
Suggested Answer:
Hijab does not prevent a woman who wears it from being modern or keeping up with fashion; rather, it is part of her identity, which she can express in a refined and ever-renewing style.
Hijab and fashion:
Today there are many fashion lines designed specifically for women who wear hijab, which shows that hijab can go hand in hand with modern taste and modesty at the same time.
Hijab is not the opposite of elegance; rather, it is a framework within which a woman can be creative in a way that suits her identity and style.
Balancing modernity and values:
Islam does not prevent a woman from being elegant or caring about her appearance; rather, it encourages this, on condition that the clothing is modest and shows respect for values. Imam Jaʿfar al-Ṣādiq (peace be upon him) says: "إن الله يحب الجمال والتجمّل، ويكره البؤس والتباؤس." "Allah loves beauty and adorning oneself, and dislikes wretchedness and affecting wretchedness."
True beauty is that which unites form and spirit.
Expressing personal identity:
Hijab can be a means of displaying a woman's own taste, through the different colours and designs that show her identity and personality.
A Practical Example:
Imagine a woman wearing a brightly coloured hijab with a long, elegant coat. Her appearance reflects her modesty while at the same time expressing her refined taste. Many women who wear hijab today prove that elegance and modesty can coexist.
A Touch of Fiṭra:
Every human being loves to look beautiful and elegant. Hijab does not cancel this feeling; rather, it adds to it a dimension of dignity and distinction.
Supporting Verse:
Allah the Exalted says: "قُلْ مَنْ حَرَّمَ زِينَةَ اللَّهِ الَّتِي أَخْرَجَ لِعِبَادِهِ وَالطَّيِّبَاتِ مِنَ الرِّزْقِ" "Say: Who has forbidden the adornment of Allah which He has brought forth for His servants, and the good things of provision?"
(al-Aʿrāf: 32).
Adornment is permissible when it is within the framework of values and the limits set by the Sharia.
Conclusion:
Hijab does not hinder modernity or an interest in fashion; rather, it is part of an identity through which a woman can be creative in a way that reflects her values and personality. Hijab shows that true elegance comes from within and is in harmony with values.
Question Fourteen: What Is Your Message to Women Who Do Not Wear Hijab?
Suggested Answer:
My message to women who do not wear hijab is a message of love and respect, because we are all walking different journeys in our spiritual and personal lives. Hijab is not a standard for judging people; it is a personal choice that springs from one's relationship with Allah.
Your worth does not depend on your appearance:
Islam focuses on substance, not form. Whether you wear hijab or not, your worth comes from your character and your deeds. Allah the Exalted says: "إِنَّ أَكْرَمَكُمْ عِندَ اللَّهِ أَتْقَاكُمْ" "Indeed, the most noble of you in the sight of Allah is the most mindful of Him among you" (al-Ḥujurāt: 13).
Hijab is a personal journey:
Wearing hijab is not always an easy step. It may take time and deep reflection. What matters is that your decisions in life spring from your sincere conviction, not from external pressure.
Do not judge hijab by appearances or individuals:
Some stereotypes about hijab may come from particular situations or individuals, but they do not reflect the true philosophy of hijab, which aims to elevate and honour women.
We are all looking for inner peace:
Hijab is a means of attaining inner peace through drawing closer to Allah. If you are thinking about it, take your time to understand its meanings and its beauty.
A Practical Example:
Just as a person makes a career or educational decision based on their circumstances and convictions, wearing hijab is a similar decision; it requires reflection, support, and deep understanding.
A Touch of Fiṭra:
Fiṭra calls a person to strive for truth and goodness. Every step towards commitment or closeness to Allah resembles the feeling of returning to something dear that had been lost.
Supporting Hadith:
From Imam Jaʿfar al-Ṣādiq (peace be upon him): "كونوا زينًا لنا، ولا تكونوا شينًا علينا." "Be an adornment for us, and do not be a disgrace upon us."
Hijab is part of the spiritual adornment that reflects the beauty of the relationship with Allah, but it is not the only standard.
Conclusion:
My message is that we see one another as human beings who respect each other's choices, and that we recognise that hijab is a beautiful spiritual symbol, yet ultimately part of a larger picture that includes values, ethics, and conduct. If you decide one day to wear hijab, remember that the most important step is for the decision to come from your heart, out of love for Allah and respect for yourself.
Looking to Strengthen Your Self-Image and Self-Confidence as a Muslim Woman?
We recommend visiting the journey "The Journey of Awareness" by instructor Shah Zanan Yasin, which addresses questions of Islamic identity and building self-confidence in different environments. Discover more about the journey here.
External Links
Below are some other sources for further research on hijab
The Golden Time: Time Management in the Teachings of the Ahl al-Bayt (the Prophet's Household)
Is distraction stealing your time? The Time Management journey gives you a values-based approach and practical planning to invest your time well and achieve genuine balance.
basira.center/en/journeys/time-management
The Beauty of Evil
Does evil have a beautiful face? A journey that uncovers the secret of trials and their purposes, inspired by the book *Beyond Evil* (*Mā Warāʾ al-Sharr*) by Shaykh Miṣbāḥ Yazdī. [CHECK: confirm the established English title of the book, if one exists]
Basira
