Hijab: Religious or Cultural?

By Fatima Mahmoud
Freelance Writer

Forward By : http://www.shariqkhan.page.tl
The primary Islamic objective underpinning hijab is to secure protection for women.
Having lived in Manchester all my life, I have had the privilege of encountering a wide diversity of people of varying cultures and traditions, all coexisting together in this highly cosmopolitan part of the UK. This rainbow city now hosts a population of approximately 100,000 Muslims who, within and among themselves, form a huge melting pot of cultures, traditional practices, and languages.

Many would say, however, that traditional practices are on the decline in the Muslim community here in the West, and that the culture practiced by those Muslims who first immigrated to Western countries no longer assumes the same importance for their children's generation. This, I would say is true to a large extent; much of Eastern culture has been rendered irrelevant for many Muslims born and bred in the West. But, on the flip side of things, this younger generation of Muslims have also not only taken on more fervently, but additionally found new meaning in, some of the cultural practices passed down by their parents.

Degradation of Women

One of these practices is that of dressing modestly, assumed in the form of hijab, by which I mean the covering of the whole body, including the hair and excepting the hands and face. More and more young Muslim women choose to wear hijab, not now as a cultural gesture, but as a marker of their Islamic faith and their conviction that it is through modest dress alone that women are truly freed from exploitation by and enslavement to men.

It is a refusal to be held victim by the claw-like clutches of a fashion industry that preys on millions of emotionally insecure women who succumb to its lures. They enslave themselves to the impossible and ever-changing standards of physical beauty that fashion dictates. This industry is much to blame for the soaring rates of eating disorders among young women such as bulimia and anorexia and not to mention the increasing rates of suicide (Cole).

The enormous pressure placed on women to be as sexually attractive to men as possible starts at an early age, as Naheed Mustafe, a Canadian former feminist who converted to Islam, states: "[Non-Muslim] women are taught from early childhood that their worth is proportional to their attractiveness" (Cole). As a result, women feel the need to dress in a way that is sexually pleasing to as many men as possible — imagine the headache.

But more significantly, think about the social consequences. First, in such a society every attractively dressed woman is a potential rival for another, which makes for a stiflingly over-competitive environment (Emerick). Rather than aiming to improve herself as a person, a woman makes it her main preoccupation to out-compete other women, even if this means having to "win over" another woman's man to prove her "superiority.". All this while the man sits back and files his nails, happy and contented to know there are women out there fighting for him. Second, in societies where women are viewed as sexual objects, the rate of violence towards women is horrendous. In the United States, figures show that one out of every four women will be sexually assaulted at some time of her life (Cole).

protection for women

Hijab'sobject is to liberate women by making them true equals with men.
Islam puts a stop to this degradation of women. It teaches women to cover up their beauty and thus, as Mustafe writes, gives "back to women the ultimate control over their bodies" (Cole). It teaches girls from a young age that what is of utmost importance, for both men and women, and what truly makes their worth is their character, their piety, and their dignity; in this way, both men and women are rendered equals. Since the Muslim woman is invisible behind the hijab, those she interacts with are compelled to appreciate her primarily for her intellectual abilities and personality, (Cole) serving to detract attention away from superficialities such as physical appearance and image, and thus making for a more genuine society in which all are judged for whom they are, and not what material things they possess.

The primary Islamic objective underpinning hijab then, is to secure protection for women, as it says in the Qur'an:

[O Prophet! Tell thy wives and thy daughters and the women of the believers to draw their cloaks close round them (when they go abroad). That will be better, so that they may be recognized and not annoyed] (Al-Ahzab 33:59)

The hijab is not — as is purported by many Western feminists, orientalists, and not least by the Western media — prescribed in order to oppress women and to aid men in maintaining control over them. Indeed, as seen above, its objective is quite the opposite: It is to liberate women by making them true equals with men.

Negative Associations

Having said this, however, I would be careful not to blame Western ignorance or prejudice entirely for the boundless, negative associations with oppression the hijab has borne. It is true that in some ,if not most, parts of the Muslim world where hijab is practiced, women do not enjoy their full Islamic rights, or rights that the West would consider quite basic, such as the right to vote. Women are rendered second to men through a cultural understanding of their role and status in society. In such parts of the world, the Islamic objectives underpinning hijab may be overridden by cultural ones and, thus, hijab may indeed come to symbolize a man's control over his wife, sisters, and daughters.

Taken from this angle, it is not difficult to see why so many Western feminists or indeed Muslim feminists regard the hijab scornfully, an enemy to the cause of women's liberation rather than its champion. In this context, we can view the hijab as a cultural thing and as a practice divorced from its original Islamic aims and objectives. It now takes on a culturally molded meaning and, therefore, sits quite comfortably with other practices that serve to suppress women, a lack of access to education being an example of one. Note, however, that even in the cultural context, hijab itself is not the tool that oppresses; it is those other practices used in conjunction with it that do. Hijab merely takes on the negative associations but in itself does little harm.

Such negative associations are now changing in the West with the new wave of Muslim youth who want a return, not to culture or traditional practices, but to real religion and to a purer Islam — one that is free of cultural distortions. Hijab in such a context is primarily a religious thing, and the objectives underpinning its practice are primarily Islamic ones.

Hijab can be either a religious or a cultural thing, or even both at the same time.
Religious or Cultural?

I say primarily religious because I do believe that even in this context, hijab still bears cultural associations. However, the culture I talk of now is not that of Eastern tradition but of a new and different one, specific to Muslims living in the West. As one commentator, Andrew Calcutt, bluntly puts it, "The streets of East London now resound with two fashion statements: the hood and hijab." Calcutt makes the suggestion that "religious tradition is the new rock'n'roll, while in the current context religious clothing is a kind of (anti-) fashion."

Although I do not entirely agree with Calcutt's philosophy of religion, which states that religion is merely continuous re-invention in response to specific historical contexts rather than the embodiment of timeless divinity (I do not see why it cannot be both simultaneously; the two are not mutually exclusive), I do agree with his analysis of specific religious practices. He states that hijab can properly be seen as an aspect of youth culture, characterized by rebellion against branded clothes and the fashion industry and, though it seems paradoxical, by assertion of one's identity through the anonymity of the individual behind the hijab. The difference between this newer culture and the traditional one associated with hijab is that this one falls in line with Islamic objectives while the latter oversteps them. Thus, Islam and culture are not necessarily diametrically opposed, but only become so when their objectives are.

It is clear, then, that hijab can be either a religious or a cultural thing, or even both at the same time, depending on the context of the society it is practiced in. For this reason, we must be careful to differentiate between the Islamic and the cultural objectives that underpin the practice. While the objectives of the former are to free, liberate, and protect women, those of the latter can vary. When cultural objectives fall outside the remit of Islam — as they may do in situations where women are made subordinates to men —, then the practice can no longer be said to be a religious thing, but really only a cultural thing.

Sources:
Calcutt, Andrew. “Hijab in Hood : Religion, Pop Culture and Public Policy" University of East London, Rising East Online. May 2006. Last accessed 20 Nov. 2006.

Cole, Samuel. “Donning the Hijab : ( How Not to be a Sex Object).” The Prism. March 1998. Last accessed 20 Nov. 2006.

Emerick, Yahya. “The War of Women” Islam for Today. Last accessed 20 Nov. 2006.


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Fatima Mahmoud has recently completed a Masters in Political Thought at the University of Manchester and she is an active member of the Muslim Association of Britain.

{ Views expressed by writer are their own property }

For US Muslim Girls, Hijab No Obstacle

"My friends started to like me more because they know I have the courage to stand in front of the whole school and do something different,"...
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"We do what almost every teenage girl in America does, shopping and movies. I also go out with my family and family friends"...
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Even for younger Muslim girls, wearing hijab at public middle schools enhances their self-confidence and makes them feel distinguished among their peers.
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"I am very thankful that in my community we have youth group for Muslim teenagers at the local Masjid.
"We have events and girls only parties...
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Sometimes I feel different, but never isolated or left out,” ...
"Different: yes. But never isolated or left out,"...
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The Muslim community is growing, and non-Muslims are growing more accustomed to them. This does not prevent the stares I receive...
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For US Muslim Girls, Hijab No Obstacle
By Sahar Kassaimah, IOL Correspondent

"My friends started to like me more because they know I have the courage to stand in front of the whole school and do something different," said Maghawri. (IOL Photo)
WASHINGTON — For many Muslim girls in the United States, hijab is no obstacle whatsoever to enjoy their lives, but rather a source of strength, pride and a tool to spread correct information about much-stereotyped Islam. "I’ve been wearing my hijab for more than five years; since I was a fifth grader and I believe nothing has changed between me and my friends or classmates after I covered my hair," Huda Rabia, a Californian tenth grader student, told IslamOnline.net Friday, February 9.
"In the beginning they were all curious to know what this scarf is and why I am wearing it. They had tens of questions but after I answered all of them, they never asked me about it again."
During the few recent years, a debate has been raging in the West about Muslim women's right to wear hijab in public.
Describing it as a religious symbol and not an obligatory dress code as Muslims believe, France has triggered the controversy in 2004 by adopting a bill banning the hair veil in state schools.
Shortly afterwards, other European countries, chiefly Germany, followed the French lead.
But in the United States, it is a different story.
"I do what most people at my age do," said Salsabil Alwazzi, an 18-year-old and a freshman at Oklahoma City Community College. "I hang out with friends, watch movies and go out to restaurants."
"I spend a lot of time with my friends we go for dinners and throw parties for each other," added Mariam Khalid, a 16-year old and an 11th grader at El Camino Real Senior High.
"We do what almost every teenage girl in America does, shopping and movies. I also go out with my family and family friends," she added.
Nabilah Safa, an 18-year-old freshman at the University of Michigan-Dearborn and also wears a hijab, feel pretty good about herself.
"Here in Dearborn, MI, with such a big Muslim population I feel very comfortable practicing my religion. Also I am very proud of who I am," she said.
There are between six to seven million Muslims in the United States, making up less than three percent of the country's 300 million population.
Responsibility
For many among hijab-donned Muslim girls, wearing a hijab is a responsibility that requires them to check their actions.
"Muslim girls wearing hijab are immediately recognized anywhere they go, without the need for us to say ‘I am Muslim.’ The hijab speaks for us, and I believe this helps to serve as a check on our actions, because anything we do is not just reflective on us, but on Islam as well," said Nour Habib, a 17-year-old and a freshman at Oklahoma State University.
Even for younger Muslim girls, wearing hijab at public middle schools enhances their self-confidence and makes them feel distinguished among their peers.
"I feel that I am special between all the people I hang out with because I have enough courage to do that," said Alia Maghawri, a 12-year-old and a sixth grader at Las Colinas middle school.
"I am also proud because I am different from all my Muslim friends. They are too shy to wear the hijab," added Maghawri.
For Maghawri, her hijab brings her more respect among her friends.
"My friends started to like me more because they know I have the courage to stand in front of the whole school and do something different," said Maghawri proudly.
No Isolation
"Here in Dearborn, MI, with such a big Muslim population I feel very comfortable practicing my religion. Also I am very proud of who I am," said Safa. (IOL Photo) Most of the hijab-donned girls agree that they did not feel isolated by their attire.
"Sometimes I feel different, but never isolated or left out,” said Safa.
Sarah Habib, a 15-year-old and a tenth grader, agrees with Safa.
"Different: yes. But never isolated or left out," she told IOL.
"Of course I feel different, because I am. But there is no reason for me to feel isolated or left out. There are things I stay away from, as a Muslim. But it is not because I am excluded; it is because I choose to stay away," Habib added.
Rabia wonders why a Muslim girl should feel isolated for wearing her hijab.
"I was Huda Rabia before wearing my hijab and I am still the same Huda Rabia after wearing it. The only change is that I covered my hair with this scarf. So why my friends should refuse or distance themselves from me because of my scarf?" asked Rabia surprisingly.
"I have a different belief system than most here in the US. However I was born and raised here so why should I feel any different?" added Alwazzi.
Habib believes that it is one’s actions that could isolate him/her from others.
"I believe that isolation is a choice. And if you do not choose to be isolated, then you won’t be. And the question is, left out from what? Again, it is a matter of choice. You choose whether or not to join in something, and in this way, I don’t think it’s being left out."
She said wearing hijab or being a Muslims is more like "staying out."
"There is nothing wrong with staying out of things that you feel are wrong. This is actually proof that you are 'above the influence.' By not letting someone pressure you into doing something, you are showing strength of character," she said.
Family Support
The girls, however, admit that they might face some derive their strength from strong family bonds and Muslim advocacy groups to face challenges that they might go through.
"Of course when you see other teenagers going to parties and hanging out you feel left out. But I think it is very important to have a strong family background that you know you can always go back to," said Khalid.
"I am very thankful that in my community we have youth group for Muslim teenagers at the local Masjid.
"We have events and girls only parties so that we don’t feel left out in today’s society. For example, in the summer we go camping, and during the winter’s we have snow day. During the month we have activities like going bowling and game’s night, but we also have classes on Sunday to learn more about Islam," she said.
"I think it’s a perfect balance. Even though I know I am different, I don’t feel; left out or isolated because of this youth group and my family," Khalid said.
Learn More
The girls also use their hijabs to spread correct information about much-stereotyped Islam.
"In High School, many people are very ignorant about Islam but they are also very curious," said Khalid.
"A lot of people come and ask me why I wear a scarf and I explain to them that the hair is the symbol of sensuality and beauty, and that I try to hide that. They are astounded when they discover that wearing the hijab was my choice. I also have a few classmates who are Muslim but not very religious, and they ask me questions to learn about their religion," she added.
Habib agrees.
"I believe people are getting used to seeing Muslims all around them," said Habib.
"The Muslim community is growing, and non-Muslims are growing more accustomed to them. This does not prevent the stares I receive, but I am accustomed to these as well. Not all non-Muslims look at me in the same way. I think it all depends on the level of knowledge they have about Islam."
For Sarah, people differ in their reactions, but she agrees that Muslims should be approachable to encourage others learning about Islam.
"Of course people react in different ways. I get stares all the time, some showing interest, some curiosity, some admiration/respect, and some, unfortunately, fear," Sarah told IOL.
"I try to look as approachable as possible, giving people a chance to ask what they want."
Ala Gebarin, 17, also takes into her strides stares and remarks she might come across.
"I am aware that my hijab can be intimidating, but it is only a layer of clothing," said Gebarin, a 12th grade student at Oak Forest High School.
"Once people get to know me, and how I act, their views change and really non-Muslims are very open and kind. They are often more curious than ignorant; as they are often portrayed."

The Virtues of Hijab

1. An act of obedience.

The hijab is an act of obedience to Allah and to his Prophet (pbuh - peace be upon him), Allah says in the Qur'an: 'It is not for a believer, man or woman, when Allâh and His Messenger have decreed a matter that they should have any option in their decision. And whoever disobeys Allâh and His Messenger, he has indeed strayed in a plain error.' (S33:36).

Allah also said: And tell the believing women to lower their gaze (from looking at forbidden things), and protect their private parts (from illegal sexual acts, etc.) and not to show off their adornment except only that which is apparent (like palms of hands or one eye or both eyes for necessity to see the way, or outer dress like veil, gloves, head-cover, apron, etc.), and to draw their veils all over Juyubihinna (i.e. their bodies, faces, necks and bosoms, etc.)....... '(S24:31).

2. The Hijab is IFFAHT (Modesty).

Allah (subhana wa'atala) made the adherence to the hijab a manifestation for chastity and modesty. Allah says: 'O Prophet! Tell your wives and your daughters and the women of the believers to draw their cloaks (veils) all over their bodies (i.e.screen themselves completely except the eyes or one eye to see the way). That will be better, that they should be known (as free respectable women) so as not to be annoyed. And Allâh is Ever Oft­Forgiving, Most Merciful.' (S33:59).

In the above Ayaah (verse) there is an evidence that the recognition of the apparent beauty of the woman is harmful to her. When the cause of attraction ends, the restriction is removed. This is illustrated in the case of elderly women who may have lost every aspect of attraction. Allah (swt) made it permissible for them to lay aside their outer garments and expose their faces and hands reminding, however, that is still better for them to keep their modesty.

3. The hijab is Taharat (Purity)

Allah (swt) had shown us the hikmat (wisdom) behind the legislation of the hijab: `And when you ask them (the Prophet's wives) for anything you want, ask them from behind a screen, that is purer for your hearts and their hearts.' (S33:53).

The hijab makes for greater purity for the hearts of believing men and women because it screens against the desire of the heart. Without the hijab, the heart may or may not desire. That is why the heart is more pure when the sight is blocked (by hijab) and thus the prevention of fitna (evil actions is very much manifested. The hijab cuts off the ill thoughts and the greed of the sick hearts:

`Be not soft in speech, lest he in whose heart is a disease (of hypocrisy or evil desire for adultery, etc) should be moved with desire, but speak in an honorable manner.' (S33:32)

4. The hijab is a Sitr (Shield)

The prophet (pbuh) said: "Allah, Most High, is Heaven, is Ha'yeii (Bashful), Sit'teer (Shielder). He loves Haya' (Bashfulness) and Sitr (Shielding; Covering)." The Prophet (pbuh) also said: "Any woman who takes off her clothes in other than her husband's house (to show off for unlawful purposes), has broken Allah's shield upon her. "The hadith demonstrates that depending upon the kind of action committed there will be either reward (if good) or punishment (if bad).

5. The hijab is Taqwah (Righteousness)

Allah (swt) says in the Qur'an: `O children of Adam! We have bestowed raiment upon you to cover yourselves (screen your private parts, etc) and as an adornment. But the raiment of righteousness, that is better.'(S7:26). The widespread forms of dresses in the world today are mostly for show off and hardly taken as a cover and shield of the woman's body. To the believing women, however the purpose is to safeguard their bodies and cover their private parts as a manifestation of the order of Allah. It is an act of Taqwah (righteousness).

6. The hijab is Eemaan (Belief or Faith)

Allah (swt) did not address His words about the hijab except to the believing women, Al-Mo'minat. In many cases in the Qur'an Allah refers to the "the believing women". Aisha (RA), the wife of the prophet (pbuh), addressed some women from the tribe of Banu Tameem who came to visit her and had light clothes on them, they were improperly dressed: "If indeed you are believing women, then truly this is not the dress of the believing women, and if you are not believing women, then enjoy it."

7. The hijab is Haya' (Bashfulness)

There are two authentic hadith which state: "Each religion has a morality and the morality of Islam is haya'" AND "Bashfulness is from belief, and belief is in Al-Jannah (paradise)". The hijab fits the natural bashfulness which is a part of the nature of women.

8. The hijab is Gheerah

The hijab fits the natural feeling of Gheerah, which is intrinsic in the straight man who does not like people to look at his wife or daughters. Gheerah is a driving emotion that drives the straight man to safeguard women who are related to him from strangers. The straight MUSLIM man has Gheerah for ALL MUSLIM women In response to lust and desire, men look (with desire) at other women while they do not mind that other men do the same to their wives or daughters. The mixing of sexes and absence of hijab destroys the Gheera in men. Islam considers Gheerah an integral part of faith. The dignity of the wife or daughter or any other Muslim woman must be highly respected and defended.