What is Hijab in Islam - a broader viewpoint

Hijab is one of the most misunderstood word as for Islam is concerned. It is usually taken in context of Muslim women for covering their body contours from the eyes of the men. In fact the concept of Hijab in Islam goes far beyond merely covering one’s body or wearing a headscarf of women. It, in fact, represents a broader set of guidelines and principles related to modesty, dignity, privacy, and morality. The term "Hijab" generally means "to cover, conceal, or separate." In Islamic teachings, Hijab encompasses both outward physical coverings and inward spiritual conduct.

Thus apart from its women specific meaning, Hijab actually means covering - that is all things from the eyes of others which either concern our Awrah or many other facets of life which may be inadvertently hurting to others, if not properly taken care of. Let us dwell on it in some details:

Hijab as mostly understood, specially by Non Muslims

We have already shared a number of posts on Hijab, which refer to Hijab as generally understood. The links are shared in under for detailed reading:

• Hijab for Muslim women
• Wear Raiment of Modesty and Righteousness 
• Islam PROHIBITS looking at `Awrah – the Intimate Body Parts of others
• Why Islam gives so much emphasis on Modesty " Hayā حياء " 
• Lone brave Indian Muslim girl protects her Hijab from intimidating Hindutva terrorists

Let us sum up the concept of Hijab as for its Physical Aspect: Modesty in Dress is concerned:

• For Women: The Hijab in its most common sense refers to the modest dress code prescribed for Muslim women. This includes covering the hair and body except for the face and hands (though some interpretations recommend covering the face as well). The objective is to maintain modesty and avoid drawing unnecessary attention to oneself in public.
• Quranic Reference:
• Surah An-Nur (24:31): "And tell the believing women to lower their gaze and guard their private parts and not expose their adornment except that which [necessarily] appears thereof and to wrap [a portion of] their headcovers over their chests..."
• Surah Al-Ahzab (33:59): "O Prophet, tell your wives and your daughters and the women of the believers to bring down over themselves part of their outer garments. That is more suitable that they will be known and not be abused."

These verses establish the guidelines for modest dress, emphasizing covering parts of the body that are considered private (awrah) in public spaces.

• For Men: Although the Hijab is often associated with women, men also have guidelines regarding modesty. Men are required to dress modestly, cover their private parts (from the navel to the knee), and avoid clothing that draws excessive attention or is tight-fitting.

Surah An-Nur (24:30): "Tell the believing men to lower their gaze and guard their private parts. That is purer for them. Indeed,llah is Acquainted with what they do."

 

Modesty in dress for men also discourages extravagance or dressing in a way that could lead to pride or vanity. Please read our previous post for details: Let believing men cast down their looks

Broader meaning of Hijab in Islam

Let us now turn to meaning of Hijab in aspects other than women specific or covering of Awrah:

• Hijab of Behavior: Modesty in Conduct
• Lowering the Gaze: In addition to modest dress, Hijab includes the concept of "lowering the gaze" and avoiding inappropriate interactions with members of the opposite gender.

Surah An-Nur (24:30-31): Both men and women are commanded to lower their gaze and guard their chastity, which means avoiding lustful looks or inappropriate behavior.

• Respectful Interaction: Hijab also involves how individuals conduct themselves in social interactions. Conversations and interactions should be respectful, with the boundaries of modesty upheld. Inappropriate flirtation or physical contact with members of the opposite gender is discouraged.
• Segregation (in Certain Contexts): In certain social or religious settings, Islam encourages gender segregation to prevent any temptations or improprieties. While this varies depending on culture and context, the underlying principle is to create an environment of modesty and respect.
• Hijab of the Heart: Spiritual Modesty: Modesty in Islam is not limited to outward appearance; it also has a spiritual dimension. Hijab of the heart refers to cultivating a sense of modesty, humility, and God-consciousness (taqwa) within.
• Spiritual Purity: A believer is expected to guard their heart from pride, vanity, and immoral desires. The concept of Hijab thus extends to internal modesty, where one’s thoughts, intentions, and desires should align with Islamic teachings of morality and decency.
• Hijab of Speech: Modesty in Words: 
• The way one speaks is also part of the broader understanding of Hijab. Islam encourages believers to use their speech in a modest and respectful manner. This means avoiding vulgarity, slander, gossip, or flirtatious conversation.
• Quranic Reference:

Surah Al-Ahzab (33:32): "O wives of the Prophet, you are not like anyone among women. If you fear Allah, then do not be soft in speech [to men], lest he in whose heart is disease should covet, but speak with appropriate speech."    

• This verse encourages women to speak respectfully and not in a manner that could be misinterpreted or lead to inappropriate attraction. The principle of modest speech applies to men as well.
• Hijab of Privacy: Protecting Personal Space
• The concept of Hijab also emphasizes the importance of personal privacy. Muslims are taught to respect the private space of others, including their homes and personal affairs.
• Quranic Reference: "O you who have believed, do not enter houses other than your own houses until you ascertain welcome and greet their inhabitants." Surah An-Nur (24:27)
• This verse stresses the importance of respecting others’ privacy, which is another aspect of modesty and courtesy in Islam.
• Hijab as Protection
• One of the purposes of Hijab in all its forms—dress, behavior, speech, and privacy—is to protect individuals from harm, unwanted attention, and immorality.
• Surah Al-Ahzab (33:59): "That is more suitable that they will be known and not be abused."
• The outward expression of modesty, especially through clothing, is meant to provide a layer of protection from harassment or unwanted attention, ensuring dignity and safety.

Hijab of Projectionist Desires

Man swells out of his self when blessed with position, wealth and status better than others. Islam strictly prohibits projection of such desires for these not only display arrogance and pride rather than humbleness and humility. Some such projectionist desires are given herein under which inadvertently hurt many others, blessed less than them, are appended hereinunder:

• Hijab against exhibiting one's wealth in front of the poor
• Hijab against eating lavishly when being watched by a poor and hungry who cannot even afford a decent meal in a day
• Hijab against patting and pampering your children in front of the orphans lest their 
• Hijab against exposing others' faults and sins if you happen to know of
• Hijab against peeping into personal lives of others not exposing these to others

Thus the broad meaning of Hijab in Islam encompasses much more than the headscarf worn by women. It represents a comprehensive framework of modesty, respect, and dignity, which applies to both men and women. Hijab includes:

• Modesty in dress for both genders,
• Modesty in behavior such as lowering the gaze and maintaining proper boundaries in interactions,
• Modesty in speech, avoiding inappropriate language or tones,
• Spiritual modesty, maintaining purity of thought and intention.
• Privacy and protection of oneself from harm or exploitation. Read our post: Believers! Do not be  Over-inquisitive and unnecessarily curious
• At its core, the concept of Hijab reflects a holistic approach to living a modest, dignified, and respectful life in accordance with Islamic principles. It is designed to preserve the honor and morality of individuals and to foster a society built on mutual respect and decency.

Let us then very cautious of Hijab in its boarder meaning for it covers everything that that may lure into evil or hurt someone by exposure of acts as mentioned above.

May Allāh (سبحانه و تعالى‎) help us understand Qur'ān and follow the Sunnah of Prophet Muhammad ﷺ, which is embodiment of commandments of Allah contained in the Qur'ān. May Allah help us to be like the ones He loves and let our lives be lived helping others and not making others' lives miserable or unlivable. May all our wrong doings, whether intentional or unintentional, be forgiven before the angel of death knocks on our door. 

وَمَا عَلَيۡنَاۤ اِلَّا الۡبَلٰغُ الۡمُبِيۡنُ‏ 

(36:17) and our duty is no more than to clearly convey the Message.”

That is Our duty is only to convey to you the message that Allah has entrusted us with. Then it is for you to accept it or reject it. We have not been made responsible for making you accept it forcibly, and if you do not accept it, we shall not be seized in consequence of your disbelief, you will yourselves be answerable for your actions on Day of Resurrection.

May Allah forgive me if my posts ever imply a piety far greater than I possess. I am most in need of guidance.

Reading the Qur'ān should be a daily obligation of a Muslim - Reading it with translation will make it meaningful. But reading its Exegesis / Tafsir will make you understand it fully. It will also help the Muslims to have grasp over social issues and their answers discussed in the Qur'an and other matter related to inter faith so that they are able to discuss issues with non-Muslims with authority based on refences from Qur'an.

Note: When we mention God in our posts, we mean One True God, we call Allah in Islam, with no associates. Allah is the Sole Creator of all things, and that Allah is all-powerful and all-knowing. Allah has no offspring, no race, no gender, no body, and is unaffected by the characteristics of human life.

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For more Q&A about Understanding Islam, please refer to our reference page: Understanding Islam - Frequently asked Q&A

If you like Islam: My Ultimate Decision, and to keep yourself updated on all our latest posts to know more about Islam, follow us on Facebook. You may also refer to our Facebook  Group Islam: The Ultimate Truth for more on Islam and Da'wah.

Follow @IslamUltimate

Please share this page to your friends and family members through Facebook, WhatsApp or any means on Social Media so that they can also be benefited by it and better understand Islam and the Holy Qur'an - Insha Allah (Allah Willing) you shall be blessed with the best of both worlds.

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Why Islam gives so much emphasis on Modesty " Hayā حياء "

Modesty is the quality of not being too proud or confident about yourself or your abilities. (She accepted the award with modesty). It is also the propriety in dress, speech, or conduct (like "the young man was known for his modesty".) When it comes to women, modesty is known as demureness, is a mode of dress and deportment which intends to avoid the encouraging of sexual attraction in others. The word modesty comes from the Latin word modestus which means 'keeping within measure'. It is genrally observed that most of the ills in our societies are due to non adherence to a code of conduct due to which the entire personality of a person, both within and without. 

While the term "Haya" is not explicitly mentioned in the Quran, the principles and behaviors associated with it are emphasized throughout. The Quran encourages modesty, chastity, and humility, which are core elements of Haya. The hadiths further reinforce the importance of Haya as an integral part of faith, illustrating its significance in the daily lives of Muslims. Quran promotes principles and behaviors that embody the essence of Haya, such as modesty, chastity, and humility. It is for this purpose much emphasis is laid on avoid gazing bodies of other men and women, for such lusty gazes invites the evil ro mislead man and women, as was Adam and Ever were enticed in the Heavens to disobey Allah and thus lured them to fall into his evil trap. It is said in Qur'an :

(O Prophet), enjoin believing men to cast down their looks and guard their private parts.30 That is purer for them. Surely Allah is well aware of all what they do. (Surah 24 An Nur:30) 

As women too have been duly cautioned too:

And enjoin believing women to cast down their looks and guard their private parts and not reveal their adornment except that which is revealed of itself, and to draw their veils over their bosoms, and not to reveal their adornment save to their husbands, or their fathers, or the fathers of their husbands, or of their own sons, or the sons of their husbands, or their brothers, or the sons of their brothers,41 or the sons of their sisters,.... (Surah 24 An Nur:31)

    * You may detailed explanation of the above said verses in our exegesis / tafsir of Surah An Nur

Prophet Muhammad صَلَّى اللّٰەُ تَعَالٰى عَلَيْهِ وَاٰلِهٖ وَسَلَّم, too has emphasised the need to observe modesty and Haya:

In a Hadith he has been quoted as saying: When you do not have modesty, so do whatever you want. (Sahih Bukhari, vol. 2, pp. 470, Hadith 3484) 

It is narrated by Abu Huraira that the Messenger of Allah (ﷺ) said, "Modesty is a branch of faith." (Reference: Sahih Muslim, Book 1, Hadith 56

It has become obvious that one of the reasons for avoiding any evil act is modesty.

As stated above, when one is immodest, Satan and his associated entice such men, and women, to push aside barriers that differentiate between modesty and immodesty, and enter the domain of lewdness - something highly detested by Allah.  

Thus, in Islam, modesty, or "Haya" in Arabic, is a comprehensive concept encompassing both inner and outer aspects of a Muslim's life. It involves modest behavior, speech, dress, and overall demeanor. Modesty in Islam is considered a virtue that reflects a person's faith and piety. 

The concept of modesty is addressed in Islamic teachings from many angles. In physical terms, modesty is connected with the awra', an Arabic term meaning 'inviolate vulnerability' (El Guindi 1999:142), or 'what must be covered' and consisting of the private body parts of a human being. Here’s a detailed exploration of what modesty means in Islam:

Inner Modesty

Modesty in Faith and Actions: Fear of Allah: Inner modesty involves having a strong consciousness of Allah (taqwa) and being mindful of His presence in all actions.

Humility: It includes humility and avoiding arrogance. A modest person acknowledges their own faults and strives to improve them, seeking Allah’s guidance and forgiveness.

Self-Respect and Dignity: Self-Control: Inner modesty is about self-control and avoiding sinful behaviors. It encourages one to restrain from actions that might lead to immorality or immodesty.

Outer Modesty

Modesty in Dress:  Islam has fixed the standards of modesty for both men and women. For men, the minimum amount to be covered is between the navel and the knee. For women who are in the presence of men not related to them, they must cover their bodies except for their face, hands and feet. Some go to extreme of covering face with only eye visible, but most scholars do not agree with this extra precaution.  It is therefore haram to look at the awrah/satr/private areas(navel of others. If someone's awrah is exposed in front of you, it is your duty to look away and protect your gazes.

For Women: Women are instructed to dress modestly, covering their bodies in a way that does not attract undue attention. This is outlined in Surah An-Nur (24:31) and Surah Al-Ahzab (33:59). Though they can take off your hijab when you are in privacy, such as in their own home, bedroom, or bathroom. This allows them to be comfortable and free in their personal space without worrying about anyone seeing them.

For Men: Men are also required to dress modestly, covering their bodies from the navel to the knees as a minimum standard, and to avoid wearing tight or transparent clothing that reveals their body.

Modesty in Behavior:

Lowering the Gaze: Both men and women are commanded to lower their gaze to avoid looking at things that may lead to sinful thoughts or actions (Surah An-Nur 24:30-31).

Interactions with the Opposite Gender: Modesty in interactions includes maintaining a respectful and professional demeanor, avoiding unnecessary physical contact, and being mindful of privacy and boundaries.

Modesty in Speech: Respectful Communication: Modesty in speech involves speaking kindly, avoiding vulgar or offensive language, and not engaging in gossip or slander.

Truthfulness: Being honest and avoiding lies is part of maintaining modesty in speech.

Modesty in Islam, thus, is a multifaceted concept that includes inner qualities like humility and self-respect, and outer expressions such as modest dress, behavior, and speech. It reflects a person's commitment to their faith and their awareness of Allah’s presence in their lives. Modesty helps to maintain social harmony, protect individual dignity, and foster an environment of respect and morality.

May Allāh (سبحانه و تعالى‎) help us understand Qur'ān and follow the Sunnah of Prophet Muhammad ﷺ, which is embodiment of commandments of Allah contained in the Qur'ān. May Allah help us to be like the ones He loves and let our lives be lived helping others and not making others' lives miserable or unlivable. May all our wrong doings, whether intentional or unintentional, be forgiven before the angel of death knocks on our door. 

وَمَا عَلَيۡنَاۤ اِلَّا الۡبَلٰغُ الۡمُبِيۡنُ‏ 

(36:17) and our duty is no more than to clearly convey the Message.”

That is Our duty is only to convey to you the message that Allah has entrusted us with. Then it is for you to accept it or reject it. We have not been made responsible for making you accept it forcibly, and if you do not accept it, we shall not be seized in consequence of your disbelief, you will yourselves be answerable for your actions on Day of Resurrection.

May Allah forgive me if my posts ever imply a piety far greater than I possess. I am most in need of guidance.

Reading the Qur'ān should be a daily obligation of a Muslim - Reading it with translation will make it meaningful. But reading its Exegesis / Tafsir will make you understand it fully. It will also help the Muslims to have grasp over social issues and their answers discussed in the Qur'an and other matter related to inter faith so that they are able to discuss issues with non-Muslims with authority based on refences from Qur'an.

Note: When we mention God in our posts, we mean One True God, we call Allah in Islam, with no associates. Allah is the Sole Creator of all things, and that Allah is all-powerful and all-knowing. Allah has no offspring, no race, no gender, no body, and is unaffected by the characteristics of human life.

Photo | references: | 1 | 2 | 3 |

For more Q&A about Understanding Islam, please refer to our reference page: Understanding Islam - Frequently asked Q&A

If you like Islam: My Ultimate Decision, and to keep yourself updated on all our latest posts to know more about Islam, follow us on Facebook. You may also refer to our Facebook  Group Islam: The Ultimate Truth for more on Islam and Da'wah.

Follow @IslamUltimate

Please share this page to your friends and family members through Facebook, WhatsApp or any means on Social Media so that they can also be benefited by it and better understand Islam and the Holy Qur'an - Insha Allah (Allah Willing) you shall be blessed with the best of both worlds.

Read More

World Hijab Day - 1st February 2019

Hijab for Muslim women is not only a sign of modesty but also a Commandment from Allah, which makes it obligatory for Muslim women to wear clothes as ascribed for them in the Holy Qur'an. I have already written a detailed post on the subject in one of my earlier posts, in which I have also classified that what world calls Hijab is in fact called Khimer in Arabic.  However, since world understands Hijab what actually is Khimer, we shall use the same world so as not to confuse the issue.

In most of the non Muslim countries, Muslim women observing Hijab are often treated badly and some even pity them for following a religion which oppresses women and their basic human rights. Some so called outward looking Muslim women who feel ashamed of following the teachings of the Holy Qur'an and thus inadvertently support those who consider Hijab as a symbol of oppression and divisiveness. Hijab thus makes Muslim women a visible target and have to often bear the brunt of anti Islam forces.

In order to counteract Hijab related controversies World Hijab Day is being observed annually since since 2013, founded by Nazma Khan, a New York based Muslimah. The event takes place on February 1st each year in 140 countries worldwide. Its stated purpose is to encourage women of all religions and backgrounds to wear and experience the hijab. Event organizers describe it as an opportunity for non-Muslim women to experience the hijab.

This annual event is gaining strength every year and more and more Muslim women who felt shy of wearing Hijab for the ear of being singled out or for being targeted and possibility of being harmed. are now more confident of observing Hijab and tell the world that Hijab is a symbol of modesty and not a sign of been backward or orthodox.

I cam across some thought provoking comments by those observing Hijab, which shows resilience of Muslim women to stand up to their Hijab and defend it forcefully:

• Rumana Zaib from India very boldly defends her decision to wear Hijab in a Hindu dominated India: "By wearing hijab, it gives a feeling of being safe and protected from the evil world, while still having the mind and courage to face it. It's where you CHOOSE NOT to stand a chance of being appreciated for the superficial beauty; which is mere an illusion that conceals one's hidden self. It's where you care less about people's opinions on your choices, when all your trying to is please the Almighty. And the best part is that you are representing your religion, and your people. Alhamdulillah, I have grown better after having understood this. From a time where I wasn't very practicing as a Hijabi, to this day where I reflect upon the need for being one - has got refined changes in me in the most subtle ways. This has a major role to play in the betterment of my thoughts, expression, perception and everything I do to carry myself well. Hijab is my armour.”
• Marcela Daza (Colombia) says her Hijab is the Most empowerment garment: If you think hijab holds you from exploring the world, think again. My hijab is the most empowering garment I ever had. The hijab speaks for me, it tells the world that I’m a Muslim woman, that I believe in Allah (SWT) and I try to follow the prophet Muhammad’s (peace be upon him) teachings. It’s also a reminder of the Sunnah (my ethics code) and acts sometimes quicker than my own conscience. It makes me feel connected with this world because as a Muslim woman, I have a moral duty in society.  At the same time, it tells me to keep working my way to Jannah (Paradise). [6]

Watch a beautiful video on Modesty and Hijab:

In a recent survey of 10 countries that included Pakistan, India, Malaysia, Egypt, Bangladesh, Philippines, USA, Nigeria, Indonesia, and Saudi Arabia, Muslim women were asked many a questions regarding wearing of Hijab and otherwise. And this must come as a surprise to those who think Hijab is oppressive and against women freedom, that when women were asked:  “Do you feel oppressed in your hijab?” On Instagram, 94% answered No and 6% answered Yes.  On Facebook, 81% answered No and 19% answered yes. Read the complete poll at the given reference. [7]

May the world learns to respect tolerate people of other faith, specially Muslims, who perhaps are the only faithful left still religiously following Islam and trying to survive in a world that doesn't find itself at ease with women observing Hijab and protecting their modesty. 

Photo | References: | 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 6 | 7 |

If you like Islam: My Ultimate Decision, and to keep yourself updated on all our latest posts to know more about Islam, follow us on Facebook

Follow @IslamUltimate

Please share this page to your friends and family members through Facebook, WhatsApp or any means on Social Media so that they can also be benefited by it and better understand Islam and the Holy Qur'an - Insha Allah (Allah Willing) you shall be blessed with the best of both worlds.

Read More