Muslim women cover their hair in obedience to Allah’s command, and it is not permissible for them to disregard it.
The reason for this command is rooted in the wisdom and guidance of Allah, and therefore, it is essential for Muslim women to adhere to it.
Abu Huraira reported Allah’s Messenger (ﷺ) having said this:
Two are the types of the denizens of Hell whom I did not see: people having flogs like the tails of the ox with them and they would be beating people, and the women who would be dressed but appear to be naked, who would be inclined (to evil) and make their husbands incline towards it. Their heads would be like the humps of the bukht camel inclined to one side. They will not enter Paradise and they would not smell its odour whereas its odour would be smelt from such and such distance. (Sahih Muslim 2128)
In this article, we will explore the importance of Hijab and why Muslim women cover their hair.
Table of Contents
The Meaning of Hijab:
The word “Hijab” is an Arabic word that means a curtain, cover or veil. It is an act of modesty and an essential element of Islamic dress code for both men and women.
In the context of Muslim women, it refers to the covering of their hair and body with loose clothing, leaving only their face and hands visible.
The Importance of Hijab:
The Hijab is an essential part of Muslim women’s faith and identity. It is a symbol of piety and submission to God’s will.
يَـٰٓأَيُّهَا ٱلنَّبِىُّ قُل لِّأَزْوَٰجِكَ وَبَنَاتِكَ وَنِسَآءِ ٱلْمُؤْمِنِينَ يُدْنِينَ عَلَيْهِنَّ مِن جَلَـٰبِيبِهِنَّ ۚ ذَٰلِكَ أَدْنَىٰٓ أَن يُعْرَفْنَ فَلَا يُؤْذَيْنَ ۗ وَكَانَ ٱللَّهُ غَفُورًۭا رَّحِيمًۭا ٥٩
O Prophet, tell your wives and your daughters and the women of the believers to bring down over themselves [part] of their outer garments.1 That is more suitable that they will be known2 and not be abused. And ever is Allāh Forgiving and Merciful. (Quran33;59)
By covering themselves, Muslim women demonstrate their devotion to God and their respect for their bodies. It is also a way of showing their commitment to Islam and their willingness to follow its teachings.
The Hijab also serves as a protective barrier for Muslim women. It shields them from unwanted attention and objectification from men.
It helps them maintain their dignity and self-respect in a world that often objectifies and unaccepted immoralise women. By wearing the Hijab, Muslim women assert their right to be treated as individuals and not merely as wrong objects.
Furthermore, the Hijab is a way of showing solidarity with other Muslim women around the world. It is a symbol of their shared faith and culture, and it helps create a sense of community and belonging.
Islam Gives Respect to women:
Islam is a religion that holds great reverence for women and grants them a high status in society. It recognizes the importance of women in the community and their valuable contribution to the family, economy, and overall well-being of society.
One of the most significant aspects of Islam is its recognition of the role of women as equal to that of men in the eyes of Allah. Both men and women are considered equal in terms of their obligations and responsibilities, and they are held accountable for their actions in the same way.
Islam gives great importance to the rights of women and recognizes their right to education, work, and inheritance. It also provides them with protection and support in times of need, including marriage, divorce, and custody of children.
Islam has also emphasized the importance of treating women with respect, kindness, and compassion. The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) taught his followers to treat women with love, respect, and gentleness. He advocated for their rights and encouraged them to participate in society and contribute to its development.
Misconceptions about Hijab:
Unfortunately, the Hijab has been the subject of much controversy and misunderstanding in the media and among people outside the Islamic faith.
It is often seen as a sign of oppression and a way of controlling women. However, this couldn’t be further from the truth.
The Hijab is a personal choice made by Muslim women based on their faith and personal beliefs. It is not forced upon them by their families or society.
Many Muslim women wear the Hijab with pride and find it empowering. It gives them a sense of identity and helps them stand out in a world that often marginalizes them.
Conclusion:
The Hijab is an essential part of Muslim women’s faith and identity. It is a symbol of value and love.
It also serves as a protective barrier, helping Muslim women maintain their dignity and self-respect in a world that often objectifies and sexualizes women.
By wearing the Hijab, Muslim women assert their right to be treated as individuals and not merely as unacceptable objects. It is a personal choice made by Muslim women based on their faith and personal beliefs, and it is not forced upon them by their families or society.