Why is My Hijab Your Problem?

[Mosamania]

No it is not. Your prophet spoke of the jilbab or bilbab or something. A loose head covering that covers the chest, which desert tribes wore a long time before him. Btw, I know what PBUH stands for. But I see this SAW often as well. What does that stand for please?

Actually the concept of Hijab was not existent before Islam FYI.

 

[angeldust]

Mr it is first read what HAZRAT MUHAMMAD SAW Jilbab is covering on the head just like Ghugant Sir first know the order of ISLAM than come here and talk and their was no concept of Hijab in Arabia before Islam it is Islam which made it compulsory so first know about Islam before talking pure rubbish

Sir you are wrong sir. The ghungat or its variants (dupatta, scarf, mathubaanu) is all that is really required sir. Of course that does not suit the needs of sections of your society sir. Hence the endless fight and debate sir.

 

[BLACKEAGLE]

You know it all.... PATHANS ARE A WHITE RACE! So does that give me the right to be racist?

Stay away from our conversation....

It's seems you missed a class at school about figure of speech. Listen fake Turk, I won't talk to you only in respect of Pakistanis here.

 

[Zarvan]

Sir Salah is also order of ALLAH and that too has to be enforced Sir go read Quran ALLAH has ordered in Quran Islamic Governments to establish the system of Salah and Zakat it is clear order in Quran and Sunnah and before Islam their was no concept of Hijab in Arabia that is why HAZRAT UMAR RA used to come to PROPHET SAW asking him to order Hijab for women and HAZRAT MUHAMMAD SAW used to say No because their was no order from ALLAH than when order came HAZRAT UMAR RA came to PROPHET SAW and asked him why he was smiling so he replied to him that Hijab has been made Farz and from that do on Hijab has been made Farz and it was enforced in the time of Caliphs I remember HAZRAT UMAR RA enforced it in his time

 

[Hyperion]

Secular France has more official holidays on Christian holy days than Pakistan does for Muslim days.

Well, that's West. Doesn't concern me. The only two nations that do concern me are Turkey and Pakistan, what do I have to do with the laws @ France?

 

[mjnaushad]

Did it happen pre 9/11 ?

As far i remember YES....i'll try to find the video

 

[Zarvan]

Sir you are wrong sir. The ghungat or its variants (dupatta, scarf, mathubaanu) is all that is really required sir. Of course that does not suit the needs of sections of your society sir. Hence the endless fight and debate sir.

Sir when you don't know about Islam keep your mouth shut Hijab has been order of ALLAH and Muslims have followed it for past 1400 years here comes some Muslims who think all those Muslims are stupid in reality they themselves are the biggest jokers who nothing just want to talk crap Sir the Sattar in Salah is Hijab Sir that is minimum and majority agree that Niqab is farz because Surah Al Ahzab clearly refers to Niqab and when that order came its in Sahih Bukhari that no women used to get outside of his home except covering her whole body with huge Cloth and only used to see around with her one eye only

 

[Mosamania]

Sir Salah is also order of ALLAH and that too has to be enforced Sir go read Quran ALLAH has ordered in Quran Islamic Governments to establish the system of Salah and Zakat it is clear order in Quran and Sunnah and before Islam their was no concept of Hijab in Arabia that is why HAZRAT UMAR RA used to come to PROPHET SAW asking him to order Hijab for women and HAZRAT MUHAMMAD SAW used to say No because their was no order from ALLAH than when order came HAZRAT UMAR RA came to PROPHET SAW and asked him why he was smiling so he replied to him that Hijab has been made Farz and from that do on Hijab has been made Farz and it was enforced in the time of Caliphs I remember HAZRAT UMAR RA enforced it in his time

But did the Prophet enforce it?? There were Jews in Madina were the female Jews also enforced the Hijab?? From the story of Bannu Qurayzah we can see that no it wasn't meaning. Meaning in the time of Muhammad the Hijab was not enforced but it was optional for everyone. Now why do we act like we know better than Muhammad and enforce it ourselves.

Why are we more Muslims than Muhammad himself even??

 

[Hyperion]

It's seems you missed a class at school about figure of speech. Listen fake Turk, I won't talk to you only in respect of Pakistanis here.

Done deal.. Half bred Palestinian "Jordnian". Similarly, I'll not engage you due to my utmost respect for real Arabs such as Mosmania! Cheers to that.....

 

[Zarvan]

INTRODUCTION

In the Name of Allah the Most
Beneficient and Merciful
This article portrays a broad representation of the issues of hijaab. Hijaab is seen as a very controversial issue and many argue that the ones ‘ under cover’ are undeniably attracting the most attention, a belief which confuses the logic of hijaab.

Firstly, the observers of hijaab may be a minority within certain regions which is the case in many a town or city, however, this is obviously the case due to the number of Muslim sisters whom have chosen to neglect such a worthy act, and it is these very persons whom chose to voice such discouraging and demeaning statements. Such a statement however is a representation of sheer ignorance and is denial of faith which is bestowed by the All Provider: the Almighty Allah.

The observance of hijaab will Insha’Allah reap a glorious Hereafter and uncountable benefits in this world .With anything in life determination is a much needed characteristic.

Is it not time that we allowed our faith to snub out feelings of doubt and inferiority which are merely emotions created by the forever menacing Shaitaan ?

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How Hijaab Came To Being

Islam being an eternal religion has thus catered for man’s life upon this world in the most stringent of ways and so Islam has not only defined the lawful from the unlawful, however, it has also made unlawful all acts/objects which would resultantly procure unlawfulness, i.e. The act of drinking alcohol has been defined as unlawful, in conjunction to this any acts/objects which could lead to the consumption of alcohol are also defined as unlawful for example the selling of alcohol, working within a brewery etc.

In the same manner adultery is unlawful within Islam and so in view of this any such acts which may lead to this e.g. Lustful gazing have also been defined as unlawful. In order that such acts are ruled out the revelations governing Hijaab were ordained upon mankind.

These revelations were revealed unto mankind within the actual era of Prophecy. This era was a period of time which held many highly ranked and pious households whom, through their piety did not allow free mingling of the opposite sex. Thus, the people of this era were the refined and decent of man however, from the very beginning the free mingling of the opposite sex was an act which held dislike and opposition.

The actual date of the revelation governing Hijaab is one of differing opinions however, Hijaab was ordained as compulsory within 3.A.H or 5.A.H.

The Holy Quran contains 7 verses altogether concerning Hijaab, 3 of these are featured within Surah Noor and 4 in Surah Ahzaab.

The Quranic tafseer (commentary) upon these mentioned verses can be read within this booklet.

There are more than 70 invaluable ahadith which are concerned with matters regarding Hijaab. From amongst the 7 Quranic verses, scholars are unanimous upon the fact that the verses within Surah Ahzaab were revealed before those of Surah Noor.

Hazrat Umar (R.A) once suggested to the Holy Prophet Sallallahu Alaihi Wasallam that the wives of the Prophet Sallallahu Alaihi Wasallam should observe the veil as many differing persons of differing manners and natures visit the houses of the Prophet Sallallahu Alaihi Wasallam. The Holy Prophet Sallallahu Alaihi Wasallam himself found this a desirable suggestion however, he was unable to turn the suggestion into a practicality as the Prophet Sallallahu Alaihi Wasallam was in wait of divine revelation. Shortly afterwards the revelations of Hijaab were revealed successively.

The first of the revelations concerning Hijaab is as follows :

"Do not enter the houses of the Prophet Sallallahu Alaihi Wasallam unless you have been granted permission." Surah Ahzaab.
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Hijaab In The Era Of Prophecy

Many a time people have argued whether Sahaabiyaat (the female Companions of the Prophet Sallallahu Alaihi Wasallam used to observe Hijaab or not. Such arguments are predominantly centered around the actual veiling of the face, proclaiming that such an act was not alive within the Sahabiyaat.This argument however, is merely false consolation and bears little or no weight.

There are many evidential ahadith and incidents which reinforce the observance of Hijaab and actual veiling of the female face within the era of the glorious prophecy.

Hazrat Ali (R.A) narrates that once he was in the presence of the Holy Prophet Sallallahu Alaihi Wasallam when the Holy Prophet Sallallahu Alaihi Wasallam questioned, "Tell me what is the most worthy act of a woman?" Upon hearing this all the Companions of the Holy Prophet Sallallahu Alaihi Wasallam remained silent. Hazrat Ali (R.A) further reports that when I returned to my house I forwarded the same question to Hazrat Fatimah (R.A). She replied, "A woman should not see any man nor should a man see her." Hazrat Ali (R.A) says, "I then related this to the Holy Prophet Sallallahu Alaihi Wasallam and he stated that Fatimah is my beloved child, for this reason she has understood properly." (Musnad-e-Bazzaar)

From this hadith we have learnt that Hijaab is the most important item in a woman’s life. The whole aim for a woman is to keep her beauty hidden so that it is not revealed to a ‘non-mehram’ (to whom marriage is permissible) which could finally lead to evil acts.

Hazrat Aa’isha (R.A) narrates that on one occasion a female fellow Muslim wanted to give a letter to the Holy Prophet Sallallahu Alaihi Wasallam, the letter was delivered to the Holy Prophet Sallallahu Alaihi Wasallam from behind a curtain. (Abu Dawood, Nasai and Mishkaat)

Considering the fact that all female believers are the daughters of the Prophet Sallallahu Alahi Wasallam and that the Holy Prophet Sallallahu Alaihi Wasallam himself was flawless, the above incident is evidence enough of the fact that the Sahaabiyaat were observers of Hijaab.

Hazrat Umme Atiyyah (R.A) has narrated that the Holy Prophet Sallallahu Alaihi Wasallam once ordered that upon the day of Eid,that even the menstruating women and the veiled girls should also join the Eid congregation (in order that the congregation may project a greater number of Muslims for onlooking non-Muslims).

Some Muslim women questioned, "If one of us does not have a veil should we still attend the congregation?"

The Holy Prophet Sallallahu Alaihi Wasallam answered,

"Her (Muslim) sister should cover her in her cloak." (Mishkaat)

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THE OBSERVANCE OF HIJAAB IN TIME OF DIFFICULTY:

Hazrat Qais Ibne Shammas (R.A) reports that Umme Khallad (R.A) came to the Holy Prophet Sallallahu Alaihi Wasallam to inquire about her son who had been killed in one of the battles in the path of Allah. When she arrived she had a veil covering her face. Upon seeing this one of the Companions of the Holy Prophet Sallallahu Alaihi Wasallam said, "How is it that even under such unfortunate conditions (inspite of such grief and sorrow) you wear the Hijaab?"

Hazrat Umme Khallad (R.A) replied,

"If I have lost my son I have not lost my modesty." (i.e I should not lose them both)

Then the Holy Prophet Sallallahu Alaihi Wasallam replied, "Your son will gain the reward of two martyrs."

She asked, "How can this be possible?"

The Holy Prophet Sallallahu Alaihi Wasallam replied, "Because ‘Ahl-e-Kitab’ (people of the book, i.e. Jews, Christians ) have killed him." (Narration of Abu-Dawood)

From this we can learn how the Sahabiyaat (those women who saw the Holy Prophet Sallallahu Alaihi Wasallam after accepting Islam) remained firm upon the observance of hijaab even at times of difficulty and misery.

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HIJAAB FROM A BLIND PERSON:

Hazrat Umme Salamah (R.A) narrates that once Hazrat Maimoona (R.A) and I were in the presence of the Holy Prophet Sallallahu Alaihi Wasallam when Hazrat Abdullah Ibne Umme Maktoom (R.A) arrived. As he was blind it never occured to us that it was necessary to observe hijaab, therefore we remained seated. The Holy Prophet SallallahuAlaihi Wasallam ordered us to observe hijaab. I replied "Oh Prophet of Allah he is unable to see us." Upon hearing this the Holy Prophet Sallallahu Alaihi Wasallam said, "Are you both also blind? Are you not casting your sight upon him?" (Mishkaat, Tirmizi and Abu Dawood)

Thus, we see the Holy Prophet Sallallahu Alaihi Wasallam ordering his wives to observe hijaab even in the presence of a blind person.

The above highlighted incidents stand as proof enough of hijaab in the era of Prophecy. How is it that as wrong doers we can throw wild accusations in the direction of the beloved Sahaabiyaat?

May the Almighty provide us with willful understanding and keep us safe from joining the slanderers of this world. Aameen.

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THE NECCESSITIES OF HIJAAB AND CONSEQUENCES OF NEGLIGENCE

"Oh Prophet Sallallahu Alaihi Wasallam! Tell thy wives and thy daughters and the women of the believers to draw over them their jilbaabs (cloaks). That in the least so that they be recognised and not be molested." (Surah Ahzaab)

"And remain within your homes and do not make an exibition ( of your selves) like the displays (of the immoral women) of former times of ignorance." (Surah Ahzaab)

One of the fundamental principles of Islam is to establish a system of virtue, goodness and justice. For this reason Islam teaches both men and women in order to secure such a society. Amongst other things it disciplines the human urge for the opposite sex so that both sexes can live in pure wedlock and have full control over their beastal desires. To achieve this objective Islam has a code of behaviour. Breaching these codes of principles may resultantly endanger the purity and goodness of society. This code protects, wards off evil inclinations and bad influences. This observation of rules is termed as hijaab/ purdah.

The Prophet Sallallahu Alaihi Wasallam is reported to have said,

"Verily a woman walks in the form of Shaytaan. Her approaching and recoiling are in the form of Shaytaan."

Commentary : This means that Shaitaan used women as a means to trap man into doing evil.

In another tradition the Holy Prophet Sallallahu Alaihi Wasallam said, "Verily the woman is aurah ( anything that is concealed by shame and prudency) whenever she leaves the home the Shaitan raises his eyes and looks towards her. When she is in the innermost part of the home it is then that she is closest to her Lord ."

From the above hadith we learn that the Shaitan used the women as his avenue to creat evil in society.

In the second hadith we learn that a woman should not be revealed to strangers and that the coming out of the home can only cause mischief as Shaitan awaits and gives her his evil and full attention.

In Islam a woman feels a great sense of security and enjoys a high status of honour and dignity within her home and out, which in a way is greater than man’s. Each sex have their own responsibility and duties to perform according to their emotional and biological nature. Her great responsibility lies in the upbringing of the nation’s next generation. On her shoulders does not lie the burden of financial problems, therefore she has no need to venture out of her home unlike the non-Muslim women.

Insecure feelings, financial, moral and physical problems have driven the non-Muslim women from the boundries of her home. In the process she has had to abandon her modesty and dignity at the cost of moral and spiritual life, hoping that through this she can overcome her insecurity and inferiority against men.

In Islam a woman’s real worth is not accounted by exhibiting a half exposed body, or the fascination that the opposite sex has for her, rather it is by her modesty, piety and moral conduct.

The main aim of purdah or hijaab is to guard the spiritual and moral purity of man. Caution is taken in the very first steps so that man is prevented from plungering into the abyss of immorality and shamelessness which can be witnessed today.

The Quran reads, And tell the believing woman to lower their gaze and be modest. (24.31). The same has been ordered for man as well.

The Quran proclaims," Do not approach near fornification."

Shame and respect are natural qualities in man. When these cannot be found in him and his whole community, what can be the outcome of this? You only have to look around us today to witness these atrocities caused by the negligence of immodesty.

The Prophet Sallallahu Alaihi Wasallam said,

"There is nothing left after me more dangerous to man than the temptations of women."

Is not the unveiling of women in our time along with the free mixing of both sexes the cause to some of the social and moral ailments? Many complain that the hijaab enjoined upon Muslim women is far too restrictive and rigid and is in order to keep inferior to man. Ignorance and misunderstanding can only be the cause of such beliefs. Besides Islam which other religion or nation has given homes full protection from exploitation from strangers? While at the same time Islam guides women upon importance of purity and morality as well as upholding her status and dignity.

A woman is likened to a sweet creature, everything about her is an attraction for spectators. Islam protects her by enjoining her to wear hijaab so that the covering of herself does not attract men like the swamps of flies and dirty creatures are attracted to uncovered sweets as in the case of todays women who falls prey to this.

The Prophet Sallallahu Alaihi Wasallam was ordered to tell his wives and believing women to wear purdah so that they could be recognised as believing women and not molested. Is this not the case of todays women?

The Holy Prophet Sallallahu Alaihi Wasallam is reported to have said, "Every religion has a characteristic. The characteristic of Islam is modesty." (Ibn Majah.)

He also said, "Verily modesty and faith are inter-related. If one is taken out the other diminishes simultaneously". (Bayhaqi)

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VIOLATIONS OF HIJAAB

Many women today say that the wearing of veil is difficult and unimportant.

In the Holy Prophet’s (Sallallahu Alaihi Wasallam) era the modesty and observance of hijaab amongst the Sahaabiyaat was at it’s peak despite the lesser need for it than today. Communities and nations progressed and were sucessful due to such social conduct.

The evils of shamelessness, of low morals and over liberated people are the main cause of destruction of any member or nation; as humans we all bear testimony to this, be it that our testimonies are voiced or unvoiced. Only in this belated age of modernity do people have a divergent view on modesty. Today, hijaab may pose difficulties for Muslim women due to the environment surrounding them. If we actively create an environment of hijaab i.e. if our mothers, sisters, and friends who we daily visit become observers of hijaab then the situation would become one of the norm, eliminating feelings of awkwardness and difficulty.

In the sixties when our elders first came to Britain it was impossible to keep a beard or wear a topi, rouges would mock such persons. But today Alhamdulillah we see many muslim youngsters in the middle of the town dressed in jubbas and turbans without the slightest hesitation or fear.

The Thawaab and divine pleasure for reviving hijaab can be deduced from the following hadith.

The Holy Prophet Sallallahu Alaihi Wasallam said, "He who adheres to my Sunnah at a time when my Ummah has become corrupt will obtain the Thawaab of a hundred martyrs."

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QURANIC TAFSEER UPON HIJAAB

"O ye who believe! Enter not the dwellings of the Prophet Sallallahu Alaihi Wasallam for a meal without waiting for the proper time, unless permission be granted you. But if ye are invited, enter and when your meal is ended then disperse. Linger not for conversation. Lo, that would cause annoyance to the Prophet Sallallahu Alaihi Wasallam and he would be shy of (asking) you (to go) but Allah is not shy of the truth."

The above is a part revelation of verse : 53- Surah Ahzaab.

In a narration of Bukhari, Hazrat Anas (R.A) explains: " I am the most known amongst the people, concerning the causes of the first revelation of Hijaab. Reason being, I was present throughout the whole incident and I witnessed the acts of the Sahaabaa and the Prophet Sallallahu Alahi Wasallam."

After Hazrat Zainab bint Jahash enjoined in marriage with the blessed Prophet Sallallahu Alaihi Wasallam, she was brought into the small house situated in the Haram of the Prophet Sallallahu Alaihi Wasallam. The Prophet Sallallahu Alaihi Wasallam had a meal prepared in aid of the blessed marriage i.e. Waleemah. After the dinner was served many people stayed behind and lingered for purposes of conversation. In a narration of Tirmizi it is stated that the blessed Prophet Sallallahu Alaihi Wasallam and Ummul Mu’mineen Hazrat Zainab (R.A) also remained there. Hazrat Zainab (R.A) had turned her face towards the wall in shame. To see such actions caused discomfort to the Prophet Sallallahu Alaihi Wasallam, who took leave and visited the other blessed wives. Upon return he found the gathering had not yet dispersed. Again the Prophet Sallallahu Alaihi Wasallam left in annoyance. Seeing this act of the Prophet Sallallahu Alaihi Wasallam many people understood and took leave. Hazrat Anas (R.A) reports: The Prophet Sallallahu Alaihi Wasallam came outside the small building and I was present there too. It was then that the above verses were revealed to the Prophet Sallallahu Alaihi Wasallam.

Although the verses do not openly explain the form and procedures of Hijaab, they have given an explanation as to refrain from going to the Prophet’s Sallallahu Alaihi Wasallam houses, because discomfort was resultant not only for the Prophet Sallallahu Alaihi Wasallam but also for the blessed w ives too.

Following onwards the Quran portrays : ‘ And when ye ask of them (the wives of the Prophet Sallallahu Alaihi Wasallam) anything,ask it of them from behind a curtain. That is purer for your hearts and for their hearts.’ (Part revelation of verse:53 Surah Ahzaab)

Although the cause of revelation refers only to the blessed wives of the Prophet Sallallahu Alaihi Wasallam, the rule applies to the whole Ummah. So that the hearts and intents of both the believing men and women can stay clean and purified.

We learn that if such a revelation was related to the blessed wives of the Prophet Sallallahu Alaihi Wassallam, who in all means stand as our pillars of guidence, then we, the unworthy, too must also consider the matter and follow in accordance, as no man can ever level with the standards of piety and purity of the blessed Sahaabaa/Sahaabiyaat. If there were such restrictions, then we, in all circumstances should restrict ourselves more severely in matters such as these.

Allah Ta’aalaa has stated in the Holy Quran: "And stay in your houses, adorn not yourself with the adornment of the times of ignorance." (Part revelation : Surah Ahzaab)

The times of ignorance mentioned in the Aayah indicate the days of darkness previous to the light and expandations of Islam. The Holy Qur’an has referred to these days as, ‘The first/early days of ignorance.’ This reveals to us the fact that there will be another period when darkness will over power the true light to cause disruption within the living people again.

Reflecting upon the present situation of the ways of the world, we can witness this fact. We see the evil growth of ignorance is casting it’s magnitudinal force, unfortunately the very ways and teachings of the Holy Prophet Sallallahu Alaihi Wasallam are being neglected.

If one looks towards the inner meaning of the Aayah, it becomes apparent that a woman was created with a homely character, her duties lie within her home, therefore the Islamic law requires her to stay at home. However, if the need arises she is permitted to leave her home, enclose herself within the ‘Jilbaab’ and accomplish her needs.

Allah Ta’aalah has further stated in the Holy Quran :

‘O, Prophet ! (Sallallahu Alaihi Wasallam) tell thy wives and thy daughters and the women of the believers to draw their cloaks close round them (when they go out). That will be better so that they may be recognised and not annoyed. Allah is ever Forgiving, Merciful.’ (Verse: 59 Surah Ahzaab)

Hazrat Ibne Jareer (R.A.)has reported the discription of ‘Jilbaab’ from Hazrat Abdullah Ibn Abbas (R.A.) : ‘A thick cloth in which a woman conceals herself from head to toe allowing a narrow opening by the eye for means of seeing.’

Along with this limitation, the woman must walk to one side of the path, refrain from mingling in crowds of men, not apply perfume or any other forms of scent, or wear tinkling jewellery that cause attraction, as these give invitation towards corruptive acts.

In the above mentioned Aayah, Allah Ta’aalaa has ordained the blessed wives, daughters and believing women of the Prophet Sallallahu Alaihi Wasallam to observe ‘Hijaab’, according to the specification of Abdullah ibn Abbas (R.A).

A woman is like a precious rare stone, the most valuable and attractive recognition is her face. It would be considered useless if she concealed her whole body, and revealed her face, for this is where a woman’s beauty lies. What could be more worthy of being kept ‘well hidden’ than her face?

Hazrat Abdullah Ibne Mas’ood (R.A) has given the following definition for the ‘Jilbaab’: ‘The large cloth which is worn over the large head scarf (dupattah).’

Imam Mohammad Ibn Seereen (R.A) inquired to Hazrat Ubaydah Salmaani (R.A) about the ‘Jilbaab’ and its form of concealment. Hazrat Ubaydah (R.A) taught through demonstration by drawing a large cloth over his head and then covered the face allowing a small opening by the left eye for purposes of seeing.

Both explanations of Ibne Abbas (R.A) and Ubaydah Salmaani (R.A) are focused upon the word ‘yudneena ‘ (in the Aayah). The Aayah openly explains the necessity of ‘Hijaab’ for women of all ages and times.

Hazrat Maulana Shabbir Ahmed Uthmani (R.A) has stated : "It can be found in many narrations that the believing women would go out in such concealment that only one eye would be revealed for means of seeing. So, accordingly in the age of corruption, to cover the face would fall as a compulsory act upon every Muslim woman."

However, if unintentionally any loss or misconduct occurs within the observation of Hijaab, Allah Ta’aalaa is most forgiving.

Commentary upon ‘Hijaab’ is covered sufficiently under the verses of Surah Ahzaab, which was revealed at the time of the respected marriage of Hazrat Zainab bint Jahash (R.A) at the blessed hands of the Prophet Sallallahu Alaihi Wasallam.

The scholars’ views differ as to when this incident took place. Many scholars view this incident to have taken place in the year 03. A.H. In contrast several others as mentioned in ‘Tafseer Ibn Katheer’ and ‘Naylul-Awtaar’ give a stronger view towards the occurence of the incident to have taken place in the year 05.A.H. This has also been narrated from Hazrat Anas (R.A). However, an agreement was finally made on the narration of Hazrat Anas (R.A).

The verses upon ‘Hijaab’ in Surah Noor were revealed in the year 06.A.H. The observance of Hijaab was obediently adhered to in result of the revelations of Surah Ahzaab. The following part revelation of verse: 60, Surah Noor explains :

" In such a way as not to show adornment." One interpretation of the Aayah explains that having dressed accordingly as the Quran, old womenfolk may go out unveiled yet in such a way that adornment is not revealed.

The Holy Prophet Sallallahu Alaihi Wasallam once said to his blessed wives: "I permit you to leave your homes whenever the need arises."

It is said that the blessed wives of the Prophet Sallallahu Alaihi Wasallam would pay visits to their parents, friends, relatives etc. They would also take leave for purposes such as performing the blessed pilgrimage as well as the optional Umrah. Many Sahaabiyaat would accompany the blessed Sahaabaa at the time of battle, nursing the wounded etc.

"Tell the believing men to lower their gaze and guard their modesty, that is purer for them. Lo! Allah is aware of what they do. And tell the believing women to lower their gaze and be modest, and to display of their adornment only that which is apparent, and to draw their veils over their bosoms, and not to reveal their adornment save to their own husbands or fathers or husband’s fathers or their sons or their husband’s sons or their brothers, or their brother’s sons or sister’s sons or their women or their slaves, or male attendants who lack vigour, or children who know naught of womens nakedness. And let them not stamp their feet so as to reveal what they hide of their adornment. And turn unto Allah together, O, believers in order that you may succeed." (Surah Noor, verses: 30-31)

"And tell the believing men to lower their gaze."

‘Yaguddoo‘ is originated from the word ‘ gadd‘ which means: " To lower the gaze." Relating to this Aayat Ibne Katheer and Ibne Hibban have commentated as follows: To turn the gaze away from such things upon which the Islamic law has forbidden, e.g. To look at a non mehram of the opposite sex with bad intent, to even glance at any male/females’ ‘Satar’, to disturb others privacy by looking into their homes, living quarters etc., are extremely forbidden and the outcomes are severe (in this World and in the Hereafter).

"And guard their modesty." To over-rule ones unlawful desires from bad intents and doings e.g. To indulge within adultery, to be sexually attracted to members of the same sex (Homosexuality, Lesbianism), to fulfil evil desires by means of forbidden touching, glancing etc. Hazrat Abdullah bin Mas’ood (R.A) has reported from the Holy Prophet Sallallahu Alaihi Wasallam: "Sight is a poisonous spear amongst the many spears of the Shaitaan. One who resists it in the fear of Allah, is rewarded with strong faith, whose sweetness is witheld in the heart of the resistor."

Hazrat Jareer ibn Abdullah (R.A) once questioned the Holy Prophet Sallallahu Alaihi Wasallam regarding a man who unintentionally glances at a woman. The Holy Prophet Sallallahu Alaihi Wasallam replied: "The man must turn away instantly and his first glance will be forgiven." Muslim.

"And tell the believing women to lower their gaze and guard their modesty." Part revelation- Surah Noor . This Aayah is in accordance with the same command as above, except that this Aayah relates to women. The above Aayah ordained that the believing men should lower their gaze. Usually the orders for women follow along accordingly although the Aayah may be directed to men alone. The woman’s order was specified so that subsequently it may strengthen the point and highlight its outcome effectively.

"And to display of their adornment only that which is apparent." The literal definition of ‘Zeenat’ is the accessories which adorn a woman, e.g. Outstanding garments, jewellery etc. The majority of commentators have given an explanation as follows: Looking at the accessories of zeenat is permissible but, to look at the bearer of such accessories is forbidden.

"Only that which is apparent." The Aayah reveals an exception as to what is apparent of a woman’s adornment. These exceptions are when a woman is working or constantly moving and her hands/face may be revealed then this is dealt with as an exception. Hazrat Ibne Ma’sood (R.A) gives the following commentary regarding this exception: The Aayah relates to the cloth or garment worn above the inner clothing eg.burqa’.

Hazrat Ibn Abbas (R.A) commentates as follows: The aayah gives the exception to uncover the face and hands when the need arises.

Again the scholars’ views differ as to whether it is compulsory for a woman to cover her face or not? Hazrat Ibne Ma’sood (R.A) states: To unveil the face or hands in the presence of a non mehram is not permissible. Hence this is an unlawful act.

Hazrat Ibne Abbas (R.A) states: To uncover the face and hands is permissible for a woman when there is no fear of bad intents and doings. And men should consider the fact that the Qur’an has ordained them to lower their gaze and be modest.

"And to draw their veils over their bosoms."

‘Khumur’ is originated from the word ‘Khimaar’ which means a large head scarf which covers the head and the chest. Before the revelation of the Aayat -e -Hijaab women used to cover their hair and let the scarf fall down the back, baring the front parts from the scarf. However, we see today that the same fashion of the days of ignorance is being adopted. ‘Juyoob’ is originated from the word ‘Jayb’, this word holds the meaning of the breast pocket, but within the Arabs this word connotates the meaning of the upper front half.

"And not to reveal their adornment save to their own husbands or fathers or husband’s fathers or their sons or their husband’s sons or their brothers or their brother’s sons or sister’s sons or their women, or their slaves, or male attendants who lack vigour, or children who know naught of women’s nakedness."

The ‘men’ mentioned above are a women’s mehram, along with these mehrams is her own husband. A woman is permitted to reveal herself fully in the presence of her husband. However, this is not permissible in the presence of her mehrams also. They are not entitled or permitted to even glance at her ‘Satar’. A woman’s mehram is there to protect her and was created as a protective model for the purpose that he will not cause any harm to her. Grand father and great grand father fall into the category of a father to which Hijaab is not neccessary.

"Or their women." This means the Muslim women. These are like her mehrams, not permitted to see a woman’s ‘Satar’. Otherwise there is no harm to unveil in their presence. The aayah indicates that Muslim women should refrain from maintaining acqaintance with ‘kaafir’ women as consequently ill influences are very likely.

"Or their slaves." Although there is no restriction governing whether the permittance concerns male slaves within the Aayah, many scholars have commented that this relates only to the female slave.

Hazrat Saeed ibn Musayyib (R.A) spoke these last words before taking leave from this world: ‘ Do not let the Aayah of Surah Noor mislead you as this refers to the women slaves not the men.’

"Or male attendants who lack vigour." Hazrat Abdullah Ibn Abbas (R.A) has stated: This means one who has no interests and desired pleasure in sexual matters.

"or children who know not of womens nakedness." This refers to such children who have not yet approached adolescence, and who are not aware of sensual features of a woman. However, if the case is such that the child approaching adolscence displays an interest in women and their features then to unveil oneself in the child’s presence is prohibited.(Ibne-Katheer)

"And let them not stamp their feet so as to reveal what they hide of their adornment." If jewellery is worn around the ankles e.g. Anklets, which create noise and tend to attract men towards the tinkling sounds then this again is considered within the violations of Hijaab. To let a non mehram become aware of this attraction is extremely prohibited. If restrictions are such for the sounds of tinkling or heels, then for a woman to raise her voice reaches well beyond the border. Within the same category falls the use of perfume and scent, these are a source of attraction whether applied intentionally or unintentionally, these should not be applied when going out or in the presence of non mehrams.

"And turn unto Allah, O, believers in order that you may succeed." Finally Allah Ta’aalaa mentions in the Aayah which reveals the fact that if any sins or faults are committed then O believers turn to Allah so that you may succeed. Whilst asking for forgivness from our great, most forgiving Lord one must express shame and regret over ones previous misconducts and resultantly never approach or intend to advance towards any bad.

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CONCLUSION

The 7 Quranic verses which have been portrayed give rise to 3 differing grades of hijaab. The highest of these 3 grades of hijaab is that a woman should remain within her home as far as it is possible.

The second grade of Hijaab is that if the need should arise that a woman must go out then this should be carried out in such adornment which conceals her entirely. Whilst observing this grade of Hijaab, the application of scent, the wearing of tinkling jewellery, to exercise caution when walking so as not to enter the heart of a mixed crowd etc, are also points to be borne in mind.

The third and lowest grade of Hijaab is in accordance to the Aayah of Surah Noor, "Except that which is evident." This verse is one of differing interpretations. Some scholars believe that ‘evident’ connotates the actual burqa and niqaab whilst other scholars have interpretated that ‘except that which is evident’ refers to the face and hands.

From amongst the 4 Imams, Imam Malik, Shafi and Ahmed (R.A) have unanimously agreed upon the first of the two interpretations. According to the schools of thought related to these three Imams, no room has been given to the unveiling of the face and hands regardless of the fear of unlawful acts or not.

Imam Abu Hanifa (R.A) has differed in his opinions favouring the latter of the two interpretations, however, he has only accepted the unveiling of the face and hands if there is no fear of unlawful acts arising in the process of this third grade of Hijaab.

However, such unveiling within this day and age would obviously give rise to unlawful ways and so the necessity of entire concealment becomes much reinforced, consequently the great scholars after Imam-e-Aazam also agreed with the thoughts of Imam Malik, Shafi and Ahmed (R.A)

In view of this the third grade of Hijaab has become invalidated and impermissible. Conclusively, Muslim women should observe either of the two valid and permitted grades of hijaab.

But did the Prophet enforce it?? There were Jews in Madina were the female Jews also enforced the Hijab?? From the story of Bannu Qurayzah we can see that no it wasn't meaning. Meaning in the time of Muhammad the Hijab was not enforced but it was optional for everyone. Now why do we act like we know better than Muhammad and enforce it ourselves.

Why are we more Muslims than Muhammad himself even??

Sir HAZRAT MUHAMMAD SAW said if you will follow any of my sahaba you will reach heaven that is why when it comes to Islam first we check the order of Quran and than Sunnah of HAZRAT MUHAMMAD SAW than Sahabas and finally we do Qiyan and Ijtihad and above is writings is the answer from me

 

[Hyperion]

Why are we more Muslims than Muhammad himself even??

Exactly! We try to over-epitomize, the perfection of Prophet Mohammed --- and think that we can improve upon it

 

[Developereo]

Well, that's West. Doesn't concern me. The only two nations that do concern me are Turkey and Pakistan, what do I have to do with the laws @ France?

Those examples were meant to illustrate the point that religion is an important part of culture and it finds its way into all aspects of public life. The case of the Ten Commandments in US courtrooms was upheld by SCOTUS because the Commandments were deemed an essential part of America's cultural heritage and their significance was more cultural than religious.

The point, ultimately, is that our radar should not focus on religion or beliefs, but the preservation of rights for all citizens, including dissenters and minorities. If Pakistan enacts laws based on Muslim beliefs, there is nothing wrong per se as long as the above principles are respected. After all, Western laws have a grounding in the Judeo-Christian belief system.

Please note that the 'equal rights' requirement will itself weed out the more extreme Sharia laws. I am more interested in content than labels.

 

[forcetrip]

Wall of text for the win .. Anyway .. There is nothing wrong with hijab and those who want to do it should according to their wishes and countries laws. The Laws in most countries says that women can do whatever they want and punishment for sexual harassment is no joke in most developed countries. The thing people are having a problem understanding is that women are not much different then men. Speaking totally in a % form. The % of people who think that women should have the same rights as men is overwhelmingly high. Therefore MR Zavaran you and your minority can continue with what you believe in. As long as you don't rock the boat, the boat will not kick you overboard into the 72 women you await.

 

[Developereo]

That's an epic cop out.

That's the basis of the legal system around the world. We don't punish people based on mere suspicions. Innocent until proven guilty.

 

[Hyperion]

Please note that the 'equal rights' requirement will itself weed out the more extreme Sharia laws. I am more interested in content than labels.

Mate, what I get from you subtle hints, a little here and a little there, is that you're ultimately rooting for Sharia law to be implemented in Pakistan, maybe not the label, however, the content of it?

Sir first read what HAZRAT MUHAMMAD SAW of his Sahabas than come and talk the crap you always talk sir

Scram @insignificant vermin!