Veiling in Islamic Muslim Culture

Veiling in Islamic Muslim Culture

Since this is a response paper and not a formal paper (and also that I am very fascinated with this topic) let me start off by saying that Islam is not a culture, Islam is a religion, like Christianity and Judaism. It is a statement about how one chooses to identify their self. Anywhere in the world, when people see a woman all wrapped up in clothing, people instantly think that the woman is Muslim. The clothing that Muslim women wear to cover up their head is called hijab. It is more than just a piece of cloth because often times it attracts attention, either a cold stare or criticism, mostly from non-Muslim people. The issue of hijab is a very sensitive subject among Muslim and non-Muslim communities. Because of the different reactions, it has become an issue of whether Muslim women should wear a hijab and if even wearing the Islamic dress is still appropriate in the present time.

For some Muslim women wearing the hijab is a statement of faith, or their belief in the truth which is held in the Qur'an. They may take pride in wearing the hijab and being known as Muslim women. These women often become representatives of the faith. Also, wearing a hijab is a way of treating oneself as somebody who is precious and special, like a treasure that is kept hidden until it is uncovered. In actuality, wearing a hijab is a matter of personal conviction and opinion. To some it can be way of restraining oneself but to others it can mean freedom.

They are quick to be judged by those who do not understand. For others it could be difficult to understand as to why a woman should cover up, since many see covering one's self as oppressive and strange.

Hijab, in addition to being an expression of modesty and religious devotion, can be a primary source of identity for many Muslim women. Wearing a hijab for a Muslim women, is a way of liberating oneself from the "norms" of this world. Muslim women gain more self-confidence and self-respect knowing who they are in the society. Generally, a hijab is worn by Muslim women in front of men who are not a relative. Men will get to like a Muslim woman not because of her looks or physical attributes, but because of other important qualities like attitude, personality, ideals, skills, knowledge and her religion. This concept can also be applicable in gaining true, friends.

Muslim women should have the right to cover their faces even when they are in different countries. Freedom of religion is a fundamental right that we have to respect at all times. I don't believe that the danger of possible terrorism is a sufficient reason to violate human rights. If a person plans on committing an act of terrorism, he or she would do it, dressed however he or she wishes. It is not enough to prohibit face veils in order to reduce terrorism because this is a matter of mentality, it is not a matter of clothing. The danger in the situation comes from the person and his beliefs, it does not come from the clothing of a religion.

I found many articles that focus on the topic of modesty and religious attire, with a focus on Muslim women and a disregard to other religions, and quite honestly I have become exhausted with the subject. Although it is a topic worthy of discussion, it should not be the most important subject of religion. In fact, the over-emphasis on issues of hijab, modesty, nail polish, plucking eyebrows, and colorful