Thursday, March 3, 2011

Hijab - A Muslim Woman's Response & Perspective

Aisha (The wife of Prophet Muhammad, peace and blessings be upon him) said, May Allah have mercy on the immigrant women (from Makkah). When Allah revealed that they should draw their veils over their juyubihinna*, they tore their wrappers and covered their heads and faces with them. [Bukhari]

The female companions of the Prophet Alayhi salatu wa salam  gave up the traditions and norms of their society and covered up immediately to respond to Almighty Allah, before they knew the proper method.

Only a Head Covering?

And say to the believing women that they should lower their gaze and guard their modesty; that they should not display their beauty and ornaments except what (must ordinarily) appear thereof; that they should draw their veils over their Juyubihinna* and not display their beauty except to [Quran 24:31]

The word *Juyubihinna, according to most scholars, refers to the head, ears, neck and chest. To fulfil the minimum requirements of Hijab, a Muslim woman covers her entire body, except her face and hands. Although it should be noted that many individuals believe the face should also be covered. Once Asma, daughter of Abu Bakr, entered upon the Prophet Alayhi salatu wa salam  wearing thin clothes. The Prophet Alayhi salatu wa salam turned his attention from her. He said, O Asma, when a woman reaches the age of menstruation, it does not suit her that she displays her parts of body except this and this, and he pointed to his face and hands. [Abu Dawud].

Proper Hijab means loose and opaque clothes. Clothes should not be alluring or similar to the clothing of men.

What about guys?

Islam outlines a modest dress code for men and women. The requirements are different based on the obvious physiological and psychological differences between the two genders.

Hijab does not apply only to clothes. It is a state of mind, behaviour, and lifestyle. Hijab celebrates a desirable quality called Haya (modesty), a deep concern for preserving ones dignity. Haya is a natural feeling that brings us pain at the very idea of committing a wrong. The Prophet Alayhi salatu wa salam  said: "Every religion has a distinct call. For Islam it is Haya (modesty)." [Ibn Majah].

Are you Ready? Six Obstacles to Overcome:

Thinking about wearing Hijab? Here are some tips to help you overcome obstacles that may get in your way:

Yourself --Not sure if you're ready? Remember that Iman (faith in Allah) includes submitting to Allah's will. Research and understand the reasons. Also talk to girls who have gone through it. Ask Allah to help you put your beliefs into action. Prophet Muhammad (pbuh) related that Allah said, "if [My servant] draws near to Me a hand's span, I draw near to him an arm's length; if he draws near to Me an arm's length, I draw near to him a fathom's length; and if he comes to Me walking, I go to him running." (Bukhari and Muslim)

Your Friends -- Worried about how your buddies will take it? Your friends should accept your decision and be proud of your courage. Give them time and be patient. Be conscious of Allah, not the girls or guys.

Your Parents -- It's difficult to do things when the people closest to you oppose it. As Muslims, it's our duty to please our parents, unless their wishes go against the command of Allah. As much as your parents do for you, their love and mercy could never compare to that of your Creator. Ease your parents into your decision and pray that it becomes easy for them to understand.

At School --It takes courage to be different.
You are likely to hear,
"what is that thing on your head?"
or "who made you do it?"
Questions aren't bad. Know your reasons
and explain why you chose to wear Hijab.

At Work -- The United Nations states that, "Everyone has the right to freedom of thought, conscience and religion" (Universal Declaration of Human Rights, Article 18). Most countries in the world abide by this declaration and have their own laws that protect an individual's freedom of religious practice at work.

At the Gym -- What about swimming or basketball for sporty sisters? Obeying Allah and wearing Hijab does not limit your physical activity. Organize sisters-only sports events. This encourages true sports-woman ship. When you play, it's about the love of the game, not the glory (or the guys watching!).

Special thanks to http://youngmuslims.ca/ and Dr Zakir Naik

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