The Hijab and how Can Muslim Women Overcome Challenges of Wearing it?

Praise be to Allah

Summary: Overcoming the challenges of wearing Hijab involves recognizing its spiritual significance, seeking support from the community, and fostering a deeper connection with Allah.

Detailed Answer: Wearing the hijab can sometimes be difficult, but it’s essential to remember that it is a command from Allah. The first step is to be fully convinced that wearing the hijab is obligatory and to embrace it as an act of submission to Allah. Allah says in the Quran,

“It is not for a believer, man or woman, when Allah and His Messenger have decreed a matter that they should have any option in their decision”.
(Al-Ahzaab 33:36)

This means that once we understand the command, our duty is to submit wholeheartedly.

Given the current climate of Islamophobia, many Muslim women face increased scrutiny and hostility. Acknowledging this fear is important, but so is finding ways to cope and stand firm. As stated in the Quran, Allah will test believers with fear, hunger, loss of wealth, and lives, but those who remain patient will receive glad tidings (Al-Baqarah 2:155).

Practical Steps to Overcome Challenges:

Strengthen Faith and Conviction: Understand and internalize that the hijab is a command from Allah. Reflect on the purpose of the hijab, which is to please Allah and fulfill His commandments. This conviction will provide the strength to overcome any societal pressures or challenges.

Ignore Negative Reactions: Train yourself to ignore people’s reactions. Pleasing everyone is an impossible task, and focusing on it can lead to unnecessary stress. Instead, focus on seeking Allah’s pleasure. The Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) said,

“Whoever seeks Allah’s pleasure by the people’s wrath, Allah will suffice him from the people”
(At-Tirmidhi 2414).

Historical Perspective: Recognize that the concept of dress codes is not unique to Islam. Throughout history, various societies have had specific dress codes. For example, the elite classes in 18th-century France adhered to strict dress codes that reflected their social status. Similarly, many cultures have norms regarding modesty and dress that are akin to the principles of hijab.

Support System: Surround yourself with supportive friends and family who respect your decision to wear the hijab. A supportive community can provide encouragement and understanding, making the journey easier.

Examples from History: Muslim women have historically made significant contributions to society. A’ishahؓ , the wife of the Prophet (ﷺ), was a renowned scholar and teacher. Fatima Al-Fihri founded the University of Al-Qarawiyyin in 859 CE, the oldest existing and continually operating educational institution in the world. Nana Asma’u, a 19th-century scholar and poet from Nigeria, was a leading figure in education and women’s rights.

Practical Tips:

• Plan Your Outfits: Preparing your outfits in advance can help you feel more comfortable and confident in your hijab.
• Follow Islamic Scholars: Seek guidance and inspiration from respected Islamic scholars to strengthen your faith and resolve.
• Educate Others: Take opportunities to educate those around you about the significance of hijab and your personal reasons for wearing it.
• Self-defense Training: Consider taking self-defense classes to feel more secure in public spaces.
• Legal Awareness: Be aware of your rights regarding religious dress in your country and workplace.
• Mindfulness and Relaxation: Practice mindfulness and relaxation techniques to manage stress and anxiety.
• Personal Goals: Set personal goals for spiritual growth and self-improvement, which can help reinforce your commitment to wearing hijab.
• Join Support Groups: Engage with online and local support groups for Muslim women to share experiences and advice.
• Professional Counseling: Seek professional counseling if you face significant emotional or psychological challenges.

Real-life Scenarios and Consequences:

• Education Intitution and Workplace Challenges: Women wearing hijabs may face stares or comments in the workplace. To address these issues, it’s important to handle them professionally, seek support from colleagues, or discuss them with HR or relevant administrative bodies. Some comments may amount to harassment and necessitate a formal complaint. Reporting harassment is essential to maintaining a safe and respectful workplace environment.
• Community Judgment: A sister, whether a revert or a born Muslim, who wears a hijab might feel judged by her community. It is crucial to seek support and counsel from the local Islamic center if available. Understanding local laws that protect your religious rights is essential, as some actions, such as forcibly removing the hijab, may constitute harassment or assault. Engaging with other sisters in the community can provide valuable support and understanding.

Conclusion: The key to overcoming the challenges of wearing hijab lies in a strong personal faith, community support, and understanding the greater purpose behind this act of worship. By fostering a non-judgmental and supportive environment, we can help each other uphold our values and strengthen our faith.

And Allah Knows Best.