Hijab – The True Importance of Modesty

In a world where everyone believes showing off their body is freedom, what is the concept of hijab in Islam? How does hijab empower women? Let’s discover the Islamic hijab’s rules and meaning.

The Concept of Hijab in Islam

Hijab is an Arabic word which means to cover. Generally, people associate with the headscarf that Muslim women wear. However, in Islam, it has a much broader meaning. It is not just covering oneself physically but adapting modesty in gaze, speech, and behavior. It is one of the most beautiful concepts of Islam that shows respect not only to women but to humanity overall.

In Islam, women must cover their bodies. Allah says in the Holy Quran:

“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.”

The hijab performs two important functions for women. Firstly, it distinguishes Muslim women from non-Muslims. It is a symbol of the identity of Muslim women. It unifies all the Muslim sisters around the world, regardless of their country. It reinforces the concept of unity, which is another core belief of Islam.

Another important function of the hijab is that it protects women from unwanted gaze. Allah created women so beautifully that they tend to attract attention. However, women feel uneasy when people stare at them. They want to be valued for their character and personality rather than their physical appearance. Hence, the hijab plays a critical role in elevating women’s status by putting an end to the objectification of women.

Modesty in Islam

Modesty is at the core of Islamic principles. It is so important that Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) called it a branch of the Islamic faith. You cannot be a true believer unless you adapt modesty. Modesty applies to different aspects of life. A person must be modest in dressing. He or she must not dress too ostentatiously so that people around feel inferior. Similarly, the person must cover his or her body parts sufficiently. Modesty in speech is also important. One must be polite and considerate in speech. He must not be arrogant, rude, or insensitive. Modesty in gaze is also very important. Muslim men must lower their gaze and refrain from looking at women. Modesty is a concept that spreads kindness, mutual respect and harmony.

Islamic Hijab Rules

Here are the important hijab rules in Islam.

Cover the Body

Muslim men and women must cover their bodies properly. They must not wear tight-fitting or see-through clothes that reveal their body.

Do Not Imitate the Other Gender

Islam created men and women in different ways. Both have their unique identities. Therefore, Islam prohibits men from imitating women and women from imitating men.

Cover Adornments

Islam does not restrict women from applying makeup or wearing jewelry or perfume. However, it commands them to hide these embellishments from stranger men so as not to appear attractive to them.

Similarly, Muslim men are commanded to be modest. They must not wear gold and silk as these are for women.

Lower Gaze

Muslim men must lower their gaze and avoid looking at women.

Exemptions to Hijab Rules

In Islam, there are certain relationships, called Mahram who are exempted from these hijab rules. These are blood relations. For example, mahram for a woman is her father, brother, husband, son, paternal and maternal grandfather, paternal and maternal uncle, and son-in-law. For a man, his mahram includes mother, sister, daughter, wife, paternal and maternal grandmother aunt, and daughter-in-law.

Benefits of Hijab

Since ancient times, women have been objectified, demeaning their role and importance in society. With the advent of Islam, women gained respect and rights. The hijab is a part of that respect. The hijab shifts the focus from a woman’s external beauty to her potential and contribution to society. It provides a sense of security and confidence to a woman. It gives an elevated sense of empowerment and freedom. It is only Islam that gives a woman the authority to decide who can look at her. Such is the beauty of hijab in Islam.

Concluding Remarks

The hijab is more than a physical covering. It is a way to respect oneself and walk around with dignity. Devoted Muslim women wear hijab in obedience to the Creator. It is a reminder that we belong to Allah and we are nothing but his obedient subject. Therefore, the hijab brings modesty, grace, and humility to people.