Hijab is the dress that completes the adornment of Muslim women. The word hijab is derived from Arabic word ‘Hajaba’ which means ‘to hide or conceal’. Islamic definition of hijab is the dress that covers whatever might arouse instincts. Hijab is much more than just covering the body, it refers to the code of modesty as guided by Allah Almighty in the glorious Quran:
“O Prophet! Tell thy wives and daughters, and the believing women, that they should cast their outer garments over their persons (when abroad): that is most convenient, that they should be known (as such) and not molested. And Allah is Oft-Forgiving, Most Merciful.” (Al-Ahzaab, 33:59)
It keeps the woman safe not only in her own society but wherever she goes. One thing is necessary for hijab that the way it is worn must not appeal others as in that way the real purpose of hijab will be fulfilled.
Hijab is basically the dress code prescribed for Muslim women and it is one of the Allah’s commands as mentioned above. In the verse number 31 of Surah Nur it is clearly explained that Muslim women are supposed to guard their modesty and lower their gaze. This ayah also elucidates the significance of Hijab in a Muslimah’s life.
“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;….” (Surah Nur, 24:31)
Indeed, Hijab is obligatory and woman should wear it according to Allah Almighty’s commandments. Allah Almighty has given the message to the Muslim women through His messenger Holy Prophet (PBUH) in the Holy Quran by first mentioning the observance of the same by His wives, daughters and then rest of Muslim women.
It must not be forgotten that Hijab is not a fashion. A Muslim woman must be careful about her appearance. She must wear neat and proper dress and her dressing must depict her religion. A woman must behave appropriately if she is wearing a hijab because her dressing will give an impression of the religion. Unfortunately, today we have made Hijab more a symbol of style and trend then that of modesty. This is shameful at our end and must be strictly discouraged.
Advantages of hijab:
Christianity as well as Islam figured how important it is for a woman to wear hijab. Hijab has several advantages. One of the most important advantages of hijab is ‘the security of the society’ that clears it from crime, rape, incest, harassment etc. Another advantage of Hijab is for the woman herself who is wearing hijab. She will be saved from the gaze as well as bad intentions of people around her as promised in the noble Quran.
Hijab is not oppression. It is the commandment of Allah and Muslims please Allah by following His orders and commands. Through Hijab, a Muslimah can increase her devotion towards Allah by following His commands. Hijab is necessary for a Muslim woman so that people respect her and must not treat her as a piece of enjoyment or an object of sexual gratification. Hijab can increase the modesty and can protect the chastity of a woman.
In fact, Hijab is not all about what people say. It is important because it is what HolyQuran says and Quran is the best guidance and a complete code of conduct for the Muslims.
In the past few decades hijab has emerged as a sign of Islamic consciousness but as a symbol of fashion at the same time. This is indeed a big dilemma. Muslim women need to understand and believe that Hijab is more a symbol of piety and great inner strength. Above all advantages of wearing hijab are numerous and its significance can never be denied as it is one of clear orders of Allah Almighty for the safety and security of Muslim women.
May Allah Almighty Grant us all strength to obey His orders in the true Islamic sense. Amen
And Only Allah Almighty Knows Best!
