I left my home country, Pakistan, to build a new life in Europe in 2008. Like anyone starting fresh in a new place, I wanted to fit in and be accepted by society where I would be part of. Dressing like those around me felt like the first natural step. I thought wearing my traditional clothes would make me look uneducated, outdated and most of all – an outsider – when all I wanted was to belong.

I could never imagine being offered a job or making new friends while dressed in my traditional attire. Somehow, I doubted my intelligence and abilities, and most of all, I doubted my faith, thinking that following my religious beliefs would be a hurdle on the path to worldly success.

The whole time, I was consumed by feelings of being an imposter, forced into a role that misrepresented my true self, hiding this from the world, while simultaneously living with the fear of eventually being found out. I had a strong urge to be myself, but at the same time, I was anxious about how people would react once I changed my appearance. Because in today’s world, openly declaring yourself as a Muslim is not an easy task and takes courage.

– How will people perceive me?
– Will they treat me differently?
– What will they ask, and how will I answer those questions?
– Will I be strong enough, brave enough?
– Will I feel confident enough in my own skin?

Then, in 2021, I finally gathered the courage to put my fears aside and take the step to start covering my head. That’s when I told myself: Whatever may be, whatever may come, I will face it.

Putting on the hijab is a part of my faith, but for me, this act meant openly accepting and announcing my true identity to the world. And I was lucky I received an overwhelmingly positive response to this change.

My Muslim friends congratulated me for taking this step, telling me how proud they were of me. And how they hoped they could do the same one day.

As for my non-Muslims friends and co-workers, some remained completely silent about the change, as if nothing had happened. Their behaviour toward me didn’t change, which was comforting, of course, because I was still the same person.

Others were curious and asked questions. And I felt proud of myself for being able to answer them confidently without feeling shame or guilt.

In the end, it’s not about expecting others to agree with you. It’s about standing your truth and hoping they will accept and respect you for who you are.

I am my true self now since I started covering my head. I feel complete, happy and more confident. And for me, this is just the first step in claiming my place in this world. There are still many challenges that I and other Muslim women face in Western society. Many of us are often hesitant to talk about it openly, however, we can tackle these problems one at a time and make things better for Muslim women.

Now being a part of a society that embraces open-mindedness, which allows me to express my true self within a community that values and celebrates diversity and inclusivity, and where, despite our differences, we can still live and work together harmoniously – I am truly grateful!

On #WorldHijabDay, I’ve decided to share my story publicly, not just for myself, but for every woman who has ever questioned whether she could truly be herself.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR:

Amal Shakeb is a Strategic Marketing Communication specialist of Pakistani origin, based in the Netherlands. She is passionate about creating awareness around mental health & well-being and is a strong advocate for diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI).

IG: Amalshakeb
LinkedIn: Amal-shakeb

The post Daring to Be Myself appeared first on World Hijab Day.

So I have come to the end of my Iddat period and by the time I reached mid-point, I found myself to have settled into a routine, in my comfort zone which was within the four walls of home. I learnt how to become closer to my Creator, through Tahajjud prayers. Priorities changed, home lingers with a new unfamiliarity as the ground that was once stable below my feet, now rocks like a torrential wave. My house seemed huge with no one present and back to normality. 

I had spent a lot of time in my bedroom where I didn’t feel the emptiness of the house so much. During this time, I qualified as a Life Coach. Little did I know, I would be self coaching. By applying the comfort zone map and the life cycle, helped me build a purpose and set priorities. I have grown and moved on from the comfort zone, to the fear zone, while learning zone and finally, the growth zone which leads to living dreams, finding purpose and achieving goals إن شاء الله‎ 

These four months have been a long journey of acceptance with an irreversible reality. I have learned to appreciate family and friends, as well as every moment lived. I found a way to make peace with myself and with my new life. My children and grandchildren have been that peace, with a new form of bonding transpiring between us. These are the blessings in my life which I cherish very dearly. Seeing my youngest grandchild, at 17 years old, go through this trauma and the way he was coping with it, gave me much strength. 

It was equally a blessing to have good family and friends around, those who paid me weekly visits, called me or messaged me. Each week, they saw a different person, ranging from the strong Rukhsana, the broken Rukhsana, the shattered Rukhsana to the lost Rukhsana. Some days, while strong, I was also easily breakable. These family and friends stayed patient as they saw me mold into a new person, accepting that I will never be the same person they once knew. I truly learnt to value them more than they could ever know.

I really found comfort in having all my photo albums out and remembering the beautiful life we had. This was a way of healing for me and I used these photos, as a positive tool, when visitors came too, to take away the pain and sadness in conversations. I wanted them to see the rich, vibrant life spent by us all. This brought about temporary smiles to our faces.

By the second month, I  had joined online Quran classes and with Allah’s help, improved my Quran recitation. I always wanted to do this but never found the time! This was very satisfying and fulfilling for me ٱلْحَمْدُ لِلّٰهِ

I spent a lot of time listening to various Islamic lectures and sifting through them.  I had the urge to share my new found knowledge with my family and friends. This was a new way of socializing, a much more productive and valuable way I found. 

The healing process was at different levels – conscious and subconscious.  I developed new behaviour patterns e.g. changed my ringtone on my mobile, not to jump when it rang, thinking  hubby as his name was saved, was calling me. My late husband always had a cup of tea together at 5pm. Whether together or apart, we would make sure we were having that cup of tea. When at Mina, during Hajj, we stayed in different tents, but he came out and called me to have a cup of tea with him outside. 

Now, a friend comes at 5pm to be my new “tea partner,” filling that space, but as the weeks progressed, she got busy and my desire for tea at 5pm disappeared. Nature works wonders on our minds and bodies as time progresses, hence the Greek poet Menander’s saying goes, “Time is a healer.”

We can often focus upon ourselves during Iddat, which is necessary. My growth has also been about supporting my son who had lost his father. I tried to remain composed even when I wanted to cry so as not to upset him.  I learnt to become the father as well as the mother to  my son. I saw him change instantly from a young boy to a young man. I saw the way he was coping and some of the things he was replicating.  Seeing all the positive things instilled in him by his father, gave me strength, peace and gratitude. A huge blessing and sign he had left for me to hold onto. It is also important to grieve together.

A few days before the end of my Iddat period, I felt a deep wave of anguish engulf me. I had gotten so used to this new setup, I didn’t want it to end. But why? It felt like this was the ‘real closure’ as if being cut away from an umbilical cord, separating the two and freeing each one to move onto a new beginning. I felt tearful and broke down many times. I didn’t want to step outside into the big wide world where I might easily get lost without my husband, but I knew I had to do it!

At the end of my Iddat, my children took me  to Turkey for the December holidays. This was a big step to take, but a stable step I needed. My holiday with all my children and grandchildren was a new beginning. All fifteen members, who had never made it on a holiday together, managed to find the time to do this! Allah showed His Mercy with new blessings and new doors opening.

Do I still have time to sit and think about my new purpose in life? I could be planning it now, but I would rather go with the flow and see what Allah has planned for me! 

In conclusion, I have learnt that everyone’s Iddat period is different. We may share the same feelings of loss, but not the same Iddat experience. During Iddat, grief is composed of pain, but also from our beliefs, traumas, personality, and relationship with whom we carry in our hearts. What works for one, can very well send another into a downhill spiral. My message to my dear sisters in the Iddat period, is: be gentle with yourself and with others, cherish this once-in-a-lifetime experience as you move onto the next chapter of your lives!

About the Author:

Rukhsana Nawaz is a devoted Primary School Teacher boasting over two decades of rich experience in the UK and Saudi Arabia. Her professional calling revolves around empowering children and women through multifaceted avenues, including engaging in the Parent-Teacher Association, a culturally tailored Cognitive Behavioral Therapy program for South Asian women via the NHS and helping women grapple with PostNatal Depression. She is a licensed life coach currently leading inspirational retreats.

The post Who I’ve Become Following My Iddat Period appeared first on World Hijab Day.

World Hijab Day Organization surrounds the importance of promoting and protecting the rights of all individuals, including their right to freedom of thought, conscience, and religion or belief.

World Hijab Day is an annual event that takes place on February 1st to raise awareness about the hijab and dismantle stereotypes associated with Muslim women who choose to wear it. The event aims to foster personal freedom of religious expression and understanding, promote diversity, and encourage dialogue among people of all faiths and backgrounds. Our surveys of past World Hijab Day participants have shown that two-thirds of the participants had a positive experience that changed their view on the hijab. They also expressed that they became more tolerant toward other nationalities and Islam.  According to recent research, people who learn about Islam and Muslims are not Islamophobic (Institute for Social Policy and Understanding, 2021).

Thus, the mission of World Hijab Day Organization is to dismantle bigotry, discrimination, and prejudice against Muslim women through awareness, education, and empowerment. Independent of any political ideology or economic interest, our vision is to create a world where we’re united through our diversity.  

How did the World Hijab Day Organization begin?

In the aftermath of September 11, 2001, Muslim women who wore a hijab (headscarf), including myself, faced discrimination and harassment (American Civil Liberties Union). One expert found that 69% of women who wore hijab reported at least one incident of discrimination compared to 29% of women who did not wear hijab (Women’s Rights Project, 2008). I have personally faced discrimination for wearing the hijab in New York City which led me to create World Hijab Day. I have shared my story in a recent TEDx talk which can be viewed here. Therefore, I declared World Hijab Day on February 1st, 2013, not realizing that so many sisters would find appreciation in the initiative and joined me in the celebration. It didn’t take long before World Hijab Day became a global phenomenon ٱلْحَمْدُ لِلَّٰهِ (Praise be to God). 

World Hijab Day is commemorated by people in over 150 countries and has been recognized by New York State, Michigan State, Oklahoma State, the City of Gainsville, Florida, Newark, New Jersey, and the House of Representatives of the Philippines.

In support of World Hijab Day, New York State Governor, Kathy Hochul, made the following statement:

“Here in New York, we are proud to recognize World Hijab Day, the important occasion that is. Wearing Hijab is a deeply personal and noble decision, one made by millions of faithful Muslim women around the world. Unfortunately, that decision requires a tremendous amount of bravery as well. Too many Muslim women are subjected to daily acts of bigotry, hate, and Islamophobia for doing nothing more than following their faith, including right here in NY. This movement was started by one of those brave New Yorkers, Nazma Khan, who should be a source of pride for every person who lives here. I want to personally thank her for all she has done to confront discrimination against Muslim women.”

How do we celebrate World Hijab Day on February 1st?

The world is full of creatives such as yourselves and we welcome anyone who celebrates the hijab in a positive light for both males and females. 

Wear a scarf: To show solidarity with Muslim hijabi women worldwide, men are encouraged to wear scarves around their necks while women are encouraged to try on headscarves for a day. 

Make a Commitment: Commit to standing up against discrimination towards girls and women who wear the hijab by taking our pledge today! Click here to pledge! 

Send us images: If you are comfortable, send in your photograph to us via our website here with your personal hijab experience which we will publicize on our social media.

Send us an article: You are also welcome to share your stories with us through articles for our blog. Submit article here. 

Organize awareness campaigns/events: The complete guide to how to celebrate World Hijab Day can be found here. We got you covered (catch the pun?) with an entire social media toolkit and letters to your employer and the principal of your school among facilities, highlighting why you believe we should all celebrate World Hijab Day. If you are hosting a World Hijab Day event, please register here to be featured on our website and social media platforms. 

Recognition: Support World Hijab Day in gaining national and international recognition by seeking official proclamations. This effort aims to advance the cause of religious freedom, foster cultural understanding, and strengthen global solidarity. More information, click here.

Support Us: Join us in celebrating World Hijab Day by making a meaningful donation of $10 here today! Your contribution is more than just a financial gift; it empowers us to dismantle bigotry, discrimination, and prejudice against hijab wearing girls and women through awareness, education and empowerment.

The post Join the Movement: World Hijab Day appeared first on World Hijab Day.

Al-Baqarah 2: 234 – 235 in the Quran enlists the following things about Iddat in the form of verses:

1. 1. The observing period for a widow is four months and ten days,
   2. During this period, a woman cannot marry another man
   3. If a person wants to marry a widow or divorced woman, he may declare his intentions in a socially acceptable manner while the iddah period is running, there shouldn’t be any secret commitment of marriage with the widow.
   4. Once the period of four months and ten days has completed, a marriage contract can be finalized containing time and place for marriage rituals.

SubhanAllah, our Creator has looked after a woman’s mental well-being before anyone when prescribing the Iddah period. Allah سبحانه و تعالى‎ knows the vulnerable state a woman is in after losing her most precious gift-her husband!

Today, two months into my Iddat period, I have learned many lessons and upon self-reflection pondered about them. I want to share my experience of iddah with you.

The first thing that comes to mind for Iddah is the four month and 10 days waiting period, which can conjure up an image of lockdown. Doors to the outside world are closed except in exceptional circumstances. However, this really didn’t strike me initially as I was at the peak of grieving.

Having immersed myself fully into Iddah, those seven weeks had been a roller coaster with huge waves of anguish and the calmness that followed the next day.

It was at the midpoint of my Iddat period that  I found a compromising position in my life and self-reflection, which brought a whole new spin for the meaning of Iddat period.

On November 10th, 2023, I experienced Iddat as a time for grieving, repairing, a need for space, gaining strength, recovering, learning patience, confidence, comfort-zone, safe haven, memorable, purpose of life, a new life – living without….

The feeling roller coaster looks like this; sadness, happiness to know jannat is his destination إن شاء الله‎ , emptiness, regrets, happy memories, smiles, gratitude, awareness of support from family, friends, community, society and my own situation – losing one part of me!

Now, I understand and can feel the quote “my better half or other half.”

A last duty to my husband that I owe him was to learn patience. When things quiet down and there remains only a trace of visitors coming as normality hits, the initial fear I have is that of isolation: specifically a silent house in my case.

Staying indoors meant loneliness would follow, potential effect on my mental and physical health, and accepting my new identity as a widow.

Two months later, where am I on my Iddah journey?

I am so grateful to Allah سبحانه و تعالى‎ for giving me this unique time and I feel so much gratitude that I didn’t have any exceptional circumstances that I had to leave the house for. Alhumdulillah, being financially stable, no small children to look after, no work, no school runs, no shopping to do as it’s all been taken care of by Allah سبحانه و تعالى‎ and His servants. It’s shown me all the blessings still remaining, all the love around me and shown me the beginning of a new chapter in my life.

I have come to realize Iddah has gradually become such a wonderful and comforting experience. It has given me all the time I needed to heal, recover, search, become patient, find myself come closer to my Creator through sabr and shukr. This was an opportunity to wake up for tahajjud prayer, to listen to Islamic lectures, to regularly read Quran with translation: “And surely, We will try you with something of fear and hunger, and loss of wealth and lives and fruits; and give glad tidings to the patient” (Al-Baqarah:155).

So by putting a spin on my thoughts about some restrictions, I have learned that the world is still there. We don’t go outside but, we bring it to us! We open our doors to the world and I wanted to do it in a Blessed and productive manner.

I came across this quote;

“We make a living by what we get, but we make a life by what we give.

It is when you give of yourself that you truly give.

I have found that among its other benefits, giving liberates the soul of the giver.

We ourselves feel that what we are doing is just a drop in the ocean. But the ocean would be less because of that missing drop.

Thousands of candles can be lighted from a single candle, and the life of the candle will not be shortened.

No act of kindness, no matter how small, is ever wasted.

No one has ever become poor by giving.

He who wished to secure the good of others, has already secured his own.

Be the change you want to see in the world.

It is more rewarding to watch money change the world than to watch it accumulate.

The greatest use of a life is to spend it on something that will outlast it.

Feeling gratitude and not expressing it is like wrapping a gift and not giving it.

As the purse is emptied, the heart is filled.

It is only in the giving of oneself to others that we truly live.

You have not lived today until you have done something for someone who can never repay you.”

I will be sharing my growth after the end of the remaining two months and 10 days إن شاء الله‎ so watch this space!

About the Author:

Rukhsana Nawaz is a devoted Primary School Teacher boasting over two decades of rich experience in the UK and Saudi Arabia. Her professional calling revolves around empowering children and women through multifaceted avenues, including engaging in the Parent-Teacher Association, a culturally tailored Cognitive Behavioral Therapy program for South Asian women via the NHS and helping women grapple with PostNatal Depression. She is a licensed life coach currently leading inspirational retreats.

The post My transition in the Iddat period appeared first on World Hijab Day.

It’s crazy how misconceptions can cloud our understanding of an entire group of people. It’s a known fact that every religion has its fair share of misconceptions and stereotypes. Unfortunately, Islam is no exception to this influx of information.

In the face of divisive headlines, Islam unwaveringly fosters peace and understanding. The very word “Islam” means peace. A fifth of the world’s population is reclaiming this peace as their chosen way of life. As we progress in the 21st century, it’s important to move past stereotypes and understand Islam. This is a faith with a rich history, a strong appreciation for diversity, and a commitment to peace.

1. MISCONCEPTION: “All muslims are terrorists.”

FACT: Islam’s teachings highlight peace, compassion, and justice. The vast majority of Muslims reject violence and extremism.

The idea that “all Muslims are terrorists,” is a harmful stereotype. Remember that most Muslims are peaceful and oppose terrorism. Though specific data is scarce, very few Muslims commit terrorist acts. At least 60 of the 2,400 U.S. terrorist attacks in the START (Study of Terrorism and Responses to Terrorism) database from 1970 to 2012 were committed by Muslims, representing only 2.5% of the total. (Washington’s Blog)

It’s often Muslims who are most affected by acts of terrorism. Research has shown that 82% to 97% of victims of terrorism are Muslims.(BBC News)(Washington’s Blog)(Fondapol.Org) It’s important to note that these incidents are driven by a miniscule fraction of the world’s Muslims and by many other factors like population, failed governance, and weak economic development. (CSIS) These figures highlight that while terrorism is a global issue, it’s not representative of the beliefs and actions of the majority of Muslims worldwide. 

The media often links Islam to violence, which can perpetuate this misconception. It’s crucial to separate the actions of a few from the beliefs of many. For example, as we wouldn’t judge all Christians by the acts of a few, we shouldn’t view all Muslims through the lens of terrorists.

2. MISCONCEPTION: “Muslims are all Arabs.”

FACT: Muslims come from diverse ethnic backgrounds worldwide. Only about 20% of Muslims are Arabs.

It’s important not to mix up Muslims and Arabs. Muslims are found all over the world and come from many different cultures. Muslims learn Arabic, the language of Islam’s holy book, the Quran. It allows them to read the Quran and understand its teachings.

Out of the over one billion Muslims globally, only around 200 million are Arabs. Interestingly, about ten percent of these Arabs are not Muslims.

3. MISCONCEPTION: “Muslim women are oppressed.”

FACT: Muslim women, like all women, live varied lives. Despite hurdles some may encounter, Islam safeguards their rights and offers them protection.

This is the most prevalent stereotype in Western media. Contrary to popular belief, women in Islam do not lack agency or personal freedom. They are capable of making impactful decisions and actions. Sometimes, cultural practices can cloud these rights. The Quran stands for gender equality and denounces violence against women.

Muslim women’s experiences are multifaceted, with empowerment being a significant aspect. Just to share, while the U.S. hasn’t had a female president yet, many Muslim women have already reached the top leadership roles in their countries. This includes notable figures like Benazir Bhutto, Khaleda Zia, Tansu Çiller, Sheikh Hasina, Mame Madior Boye, Megawati Sukarnoputri, Roza Otunbayeva, Atifete Jahjaga, Cissé Mariam Kaïdama Sidibé, Ameenah Gurib-Fakim, Halimah Yacob, Samia Suluhu, and Vjosa Osmani.

4. MISCONCEPTION: “Islam is a backward religion and Muslims disregard education.”

FACT: Education holds a significant place in Islam, and Muslims have a rich history of contributing to human civilization.

One reason Islam grew so quickly and peacefully was because of its simple teachings, which ultimately promoted the worship of a single God. Several civilizations and educational institutions were established in a relatively short amount of time. This quest for learning led to breakthroughs in many fields. 

The Prophet (SAW) emphasized the importance of education for all Muslims, irrespective of gender. Muslim scholars made substantial contributions to various disciplines during the Islamic Golden Age. For instance, Ibn Sina (Avicenna) wrote “The Canon of Medicine,” which was a key medical resource for centuries. His interpretations of Aristotle’s works played a significant role in shaping European thought. The House of Wisdom in Baghdad was a key institution where scholars shared ideas. These contributions, among many others, were instrumental in preserving and advancing knowledge that later influenced Europe’s Renaissance.

5. MISCONCEPTION: “Muslims worship a different deity.” 

FACT: Muslims worship the same God as Christians and Jews. “Allah” is the Arabic word for God, used by Arabic-speaking followers of all three religions.

Muslims express their acknowledgment of Allah’s sovereignty through devotion and compliance with His teachings, delivered by His prophets throughout history. In Islam, God is unique, doesn’t fatigue, has no offspring or associates, and lacks human traits.

6. MISCONCEPTION: “Islam is a monolithic religion.”

FACT: Islam is a diverse faith with a wide range of views, practices, and interpretations. It encompasses various sects, traditions, and cultural expressions.

Muslims, coming from different ethnicities, cultures, and eras, exhibit a broad spectrum of perspectives and practices. Different schools of thought and regional variations contribute to the richness of Islamic tradition.

A number of Islamic sects exist, each with its own set of customs, theology, and legal traditions. This diversity highlights the value of religious liberty.

7. 7. MISCONCEPTION: “Muslims hate non-Muslims.”

FACT: Islam emphasizes the importance of peaceful coexistence and respectful interaction with people of other faiths.

Islam recognizes Jews and Christians as “People of the Book.” The Quran encourages dialogue, understanding, and fair treatment of non-Muslims, emphasizing the common humanity shared by all.

Throughout history, Muslim societies have demonstrated peaceful coexistence with different religious communities. Jews, Christians, and Muslims all lived in harmony in different Islamic regimes.

8. MISCONCEPTION: “Islam is a threat to Western values.”

FACT: Islam and Western values share common ground, fostering mutual understanding and cooperation.

Islam and Western societies share common values, both aiming for a better humanity. Islam promotes freedom, justice, and democracy, which are also core Western values. Both societies are learning to adapt to each other’s values, and technology is changing how these communities interact.

9. 9. MISCONCEPTION: “Islam and Democracy are incompatible.”

FACT: Many Muslim-majority countries have democratic systems, showcasing compatibility between Islam and democratic governance.

Islam and democracy share important principles like justice, equality, and people’s welfare. Indonesia, the world’s most populous Muslim-majority country, stands as a real-time example of how Islam and democratic governance can coexist successfully. 

10. MISCONCEPTION: “Sharia law is barbaric and inflexible.”

FACT: Sharia is a comprehensive moral and ethical system based on Islamic teachings. It encompasses various interpretations and can be adapted to modern contexts.

While some parts of Sharia law related to faith, worship, and character are fixed, other parts that govern relationships between individuals can change based on circumstances, customs, and location. This flexibility is a key feature of Islamic law. Through a process called ijtihad, Muslim jurists have developed new rules from Islamic principles to suit their times and contexts.

These misconceptions have the potential not only to fuel the perpetuation of ignorance but contribute to foster prejudices. There are a lot of opinions, and reality is often twisted to fit personal agendas and biases. The harmful spread of these misconceptions needs to be addressed. It’s about shedding our preconceived ideas and welcoming the truth into our hearts and minds that exists beyond the veil of misconceptions.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR:

Famidah Dirampaten is the Assistant Editor for World HIjab Day Organization. She is also a candidate for the Master of Arts in Religious Studies with concentrations in Interfaith Peace Building and Nonprofit Leadership at the Unification Theological Seminary in New York. She is currently based in Doha, Qatar. Instagram@famidz

The post 10 Misconceptions You Need to Stop Falling For, Seriously! appeared first on World Hijab Day.

It’s been over 20 years since I started wearing the hijab, Alhamdulillah, and I can tell you that the hijab is a highly misunderstood mode of dressing. From my parents to strangers on the streets, I have received loads of questions and comments that reflect a lack of knowledge when it comes to the hijab in particular and Muslim women in general. In this article, I’ll discuss 10 of these misconceptions, InshāAllāh.

1. “Muslim men oppress their women, making them don the hijab by coercion, whereas there’s no hijab for men.”

This is one of the most common misconceptions. While Muslim parents and male figures are responsible for ensuring proper dressing for everyone under their care, they don’t have the power to force it. They only encourage us to observe the proper hijab, but we wear it to obey Allah, not them. For your information, there is a “hijab” for Muslim men too! See Qur’an 24:30. According to authentic narrations, it is recommended to cover the area between men’s navel and knees as a sign of modesty and decency, and the more they cover, the better. Narrated by Bahr ibn Hakeem, from his father, from his grandfather, who said: “I said, ‘O’ Prophet of Allah, with regard to our ‘awrah (nakedness), what must we cover of it and what may we uncover?’ He said, ‘Cover your ‘awrah except for your wife and those whom your right hand possesses.’ I said, O’ Messenger of Allah, what if the people are staying close together?’ He said, ‘If you can make sure that no one sees it, then do not let anyone see it.’” [Hasan; At-Tirmidhi, Abu Dawood and Ibn Majah]

2. “Hijabis are not fashionable.”

While the hijab is not a fashion statement and hijabis are not obsessed with fashion trends, we still make a conscious effort to look good. We wear nice dresses under our hijab and use beautiful accessories according to our means. Someone once asked if I wear earrings and necklaces. Haha! I wear them, but they’re not up for public display! 

3. “The hijab is an unnecessary layer of clothing.”

As hijabi women, our dress is incomplete without our hijab. It’s not just a piece of clothing; it’s a lifestyle. We would rather stay in our rooms than go out without our hijabs!

4. “The hijab is meant for married women only.”

That’s not true! The hijab becomes obligatory as soon as a girl attains puberty. To make the transition easier, we sometimes prefer to catch them younger. So you may see a little girl wearing a cute hijab, which is perfectly acceptable! As I mentioned earlier, the hijab is a lifestyle, and we only marry men whose lifestyle aligns with ours. What if a prospective suitor wants to have a look at a lady before marriage? That’s not a problem; we can always arrange a meet-up in the presence of her guardian.

5. “The hijab limits our education and job opportunities”

You may be right to some extent, though. I mean, as hijabis, we can’t be found doing some undignified jobs, like pole dancing. We’re way too classy for that! But we can be found excelling in science, technology, medicine, art, law, education, accounting, and other prestigious fields of human endeavour that have nothing to do with one’s dressing.

6. “Hijabis keep dirty hair.”

Covering the hair does not mean we have a defect to hide. Broken, unkempt, or lice-infested hair? Nah! We honour our hair by keeping it clean and well-managed because we believe it’s a gift from Allah (SWT). Some people even ask if we shower with the hijab on. Of course we don’t. 

7. “The hijab feels uncomfortable during the summer months.”

Thankfully, there’s a thermostat in the brain, known as the hypothalamus, which helps us adapt to temperature changes. If one has been wearing the hijab for a while, the hypothalamus is reset to a higher temperature than the average person. So, we’re good! Then there’s the perk of feeling warmer during the winter. Alhamdulillah!

8. “The hijab is worn indoors too.”

We have a list of male relatives (mahram) who can see us without the hijab. You can find this list in Qur’an 24:31. When we’re among our male relatives and any other females, we can remove our hijabs. At home with our husbands, we might even wear sexy lingerie.

9. “The hijab is just a part of Arab culture.” 

Go check out the history of the Arabs. Women’s nudity used to be displayed for entertainment before the advent of Islam. Hijab is a sense of religious duty or  a spiritual calling, not just a part of cultural attire.

10. “Hijab is a choice. You may or may not wear it.”

The hijab is a divine injunction. It’s clearly stated in the Qur’an and further explained by learned scholars; see Quran 24:31 and 33:59. We wear it to seek the pleasure of Allah ALONE. It helps us to stand out, be easily identified as Muslim women, and be protected from molestation. 

Do you have any questions or doubts about the hijab? Feel free to ask us, and we’re always happy to clear up your misconceptions. 

About the Author:

Khadijah Tijani is a Nigerian medical doctor, a creative blogger and a published author. She grew up in Ibadan, Oyo State and graduated from the College of Medicine at the University of Ibadan in 2009. After five years of practice in Nigeria, she relocated to Saudi Arabia where she worked as a resident physician in the Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology. Known as “Doctor KT,” Tijani is a women’s health advocate. She provides breastfeeding support for mothers. She is currently based in Canada. Writing is her second career, and she is embracing it fully.

Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter @askdoctorkt

Blog: www.askdoctorkt.com

Or, @askdoctorkt@gmail.com

The post 10 COMMON MISCONCEPTIONS ABOUT THE HIJAB appeared first on World Hijab Day.

Stereotypes.  We all have them no matter how enlightened we convince ourselves that we are.  I, myself, am guilty of them. I am also hyper-aware of stereotypes because I know I shatter them.  I am a hijab–wearing woman living in a post-9/11 United States.  I graduated in the top ten percent of my class from one of the most rigorous universities in the country and became a subspecialized physician.  Every day my existence pushes back against the notion that women who wear hijab are oppressed, uneducated or backwards.

Lately, I think a lot about why governments of some countries are adamantly trying to prevent women from wearing hijab, enacting laws against wearing it in public, whether while working or at leisure.  I went to a liberal arts university that drove me to become a critical thinker.  So please indulge me.  What kind of strength does it take to stand against torrential waves of culture trying to convince women that physical beauty is everything.  Women are bombarded with commercials from the beauty industry.  Women’s images are used to sell everything from cars to colas.  And the notion of physicality has only been enhanced a million-fold in the age of social media, specifically Instagram and TikTok.  Human beings have been conditioned to curate content and to curate the “best” content, we need the Instagrammable look.

The notion of hijab contradicts the idea that a woman’s worth is her physical beauty.  I am not saying that is why Muslim women wear hijab.  Nor am I pretending that I represent the opinion of all hijab-wearing women.  I wear hijab because I believe that is what God asked me to do.  I believe in an Omnipotent God who created all human beings, all living creatures and everything else.  I believe in God’s Infinite Wisdom and that God is the Most Compassionate, the Most Merciful.  Logic dictates that if I believe all these things about God and I believe God asked me to wear hijab, then I will wear it.  

However, doing what is logical does not mean it is easy.  It’s not easy to face discrimination or to have to prove yourself with every single encounter.  To prove that yes, I speak English.  Yes, I am a doctor.  Yes, I am qualified for this job.  And it’s certainly not easy when the President of your country posts a video of a Muslim congresswoman who covers her hair intertwined with images of 9/11 and the words “We will never forget,” thereby painting a target on women like me. Nevertheless, we persist.  Every morning, before I leave for work, as I put my hijab on, I am reminded that God is so much greater than all of it.  God is larger than my worries.  God has given me more than any other entity.  My ability to breathe, to see, to walk, to think, to love, to see beauty, to experience kindness.  It all comes from God. God would never hurt me. God wants what is best for me.  God loves me and has more mercy toward me than I could ever experience toward my own four children – that fact alone necessitates that I would devote my whole being to what has been asked of me.

Have I ever thought about what if my religion is wrong in this arena? Of course.  What critical thinker does not closely examine alternatives and contradictions? I work for a Catholic institution.  Not once have I seen a statue or image of the Virgin Mary without her hair covered.  I know Jewish women also cover their hair.  It is not a coincidence that even until today some Christian women will still cover their heads when they enter church.  And mind you, in Islam, it is not just women who cover their heads.  Men are strongly recommended to cover their heads also.

As millions of women across the globe make the same decision daily, it is easy to see why governments may feel threatened.  It is not easy to govern critical thinkers who derive incredible mental strength from a faith founded in love of an Infinite Source.  For some governments to pose as enlightened and liberal, yet turn around and try to govern how women dress in public seems a little archaic and hypocritical to say the least.  Yet here it is, the year 2023 and this is where we are.

How about we let people choose?  How about we respect, not just tolerate, religious differences? How about we ask people about their choices and educate ourselves instead of assuming from our vantage points?  How about we recognize that we have stereotypes and vow to try to abandon them, choosing to be open-minded with every human being we encounter? Because, stereotypes… we all have them.

About the Author:

Dr. Nour Akhras is a board-certified pediatric infectious diseases physician who has been working at a free-standing Women and Children’s Hospital in the suburbs of Chicago for the last decade.  She holds a BA in Cellular and Molecular Biology from the University of Chicago and received her medical degree from Rush Medical College.    She has traveled internationally, serving victims of war on multiple medical missions.  Dr. Akhras has advocated for the rights of refugees by authoring op-eds in newspapers like USA Today and the Chicago Sun-Times and through speaking engagements including presenting at Washington DC’s National Press Club on the effects the violence of the Syrian war has had on the lives of Syrian women.   She is the author of an upcoming memoir titled Just One: A Journey of Perseverance and Conviction expected to be published in the Spring of 2023.  She lives with her husband and four children and enjoys swimming, biking and watching her kids on their various basketball teams.

Instagram: and Twitter: nourakhrasmd

Facebook: Nour Akhras

The post Nevertheless, We Persist With Hijab appeared first on World Hijab Day.

Here are five individuals who wore their hijabs like crowns, while inspiring all people, worldwide! These women show that their hijab did not deter them from following their dreams, thereby tackling down the stereotypical veiled woman behind bars. On the contrary, these five women have proven that their hijab kept them grounded, confident in embracing their own individual identities. Please note that these women are not listed in any particular order of significance; they are all equally significant and inspiring.

Tahera Rahman is the first full-time hijabi newscaster in the USA. Having graduated with a journalism degree from Loyola University in Chicago, she is currently a TV reporter for the KXAN News, an affiliate of NBC, in Austen, Texas. Rahman tells Loyola Magazine that she became the first Muslim woman to wear hijab on broadcast TV by never accepting “No” for an answer. After many rejections, Rahman had initially worked as a producer for WHBF-TV, the CBS affiliate, hoping that working behind-the-scenes would help her gain the experience necessary to make it in front of the camera. And she made it! When Rahman was offered her current position, she was in tears. She tells Loyola Magazine that she is grateful to her mother for encouraging her to continue applying for newscaster positions and she is to Allah, for everything. She is happily married to Sports MMJ, Reporter and Anchor, Adam Rossow and they are expecting their first-born.

Kubra Dagli is a worldwide renowned Turkish taekwondo champion in the proomsae category (freestyle). Sports runs in her blood: her father is a boxing coach and her uncle was her taekwondo coach when she was 13-years-old. Winner of the gold medal in the over-18 section in Peru in 2016, a winner of gold or silver medal at every national championship, she also won five gold medals, coming second only to South Korea. Turkey has established itself as a new force in the world of taekwondo, according to TRT World. Dagli wrote on her social media regarding the media coverage that she received: “They don’t speak of my success, but of my headscarf. I don’t want this. Our success should be discussed.” Did she ever receive prejudice because of her headscarf during competition? Once, when she was coerced to wear a bandana instead of a hijab in 2013.

Nadiya Jamir Hussain is a famous British chef, having won the sixth season of “The Great British Bake Off,” which rocketed her career toward numerous TV-appearances and about 25 book publications, including both fiction and cook books! She is happily married and a mother of two sons, and one daughter. Nadiya was a shy girl growing up and suffered panic attacks during her adulthood, but with the support of her loving husband, she pulled through. After winning “The Great British Bake Off,” Nadiya decided never again to tell herself, “I can’t do it!” As for hijab, Nadiya shared in the media that she has worn the hijab since she was 14-years-old “…not specifically because I came from a religious family, in fact I came from quite the opposite, it was something I found myself. It’s a sign of being a Muslim and practicing Islam. A sign of modesty. Hair is seen as something beautiful, you preserve that for specific people.”

Silma Ihram is known as the founder of Muslim education in Sydney, Australia. Born Anne Frances Beaumont, she found Islam in 1976 during her visit to Indonesia. In 1987, Ihram founded a primary school for 105 Muslims. As a Principal, she wanted to emphasize that Muslims can also be proud Australians. She fought hard to preserve the school against Islamophobic and racial attacks. There is even a documentary about her struggles entitled, “Silma’s School,” which was released in 2006. Noor Al Houda Islamic College was eventually taken over by the Australian International Academy from Melbourne, giving her time to focus on family and other projects. In fact, she became an active political leader, becoming one of first two Muslim female candidates running for the safe Labor seat of Auburn in the 2007 State Election. Moreover, Ihram founded The Australian Muslim Women’s Association in 2011. Not to mention, she is a published author. Winner of many accolades for contributions to the Muslim community, Ihram is married and is a mother of six. Her ambitions include eventually opening up an interfaith college.

Dr. Hawa Abdi (1947-2020), a.k.a. “Mama Hawa” to Somalis worldwide, was a humanitarian activist during times of war and famine. She grew up on a farm in Mogadishu, where she lived a simple and beautiful life until the government collapsed in 1988 and strangers came knocking on her door. Suffering from the consequences of the collapse, these people had come to her seeking refuge and a strong believer in hospitality, Dr. Hawa Abdi opened up her door. She watched children hold guns and many die due to both war and famine. Her community grew to 90,000 residents in a span of 20 years. She even built the Dr. Hawa Abdi General Hospital, providing 400 beds. Dr. Hawa Abdi’s humanitarian efforts to provide healthcare, education, sanitation and healthcare to thousands of displaced individuals earned her the nomination of the Nobel Peace Prize among other accolades. She leaves behind two children: Deqo and Amina. Her third child, Ahmed, passed away in a tragic car accident in 2005.

All five of these women have faced many battles in their lives, whether internally and/or externally. One thing was for sure: they boldly and proudly wore the hijab and their faith played a big role in their lives.

About the Author:

Rumki Chowdhury is Editor of World Hijab Day Organization. Moreover, she has her own editing services. She is an award-winning published author and poet. She has an MA in English Literature from Queen Mary University of London, a BA in English Writing from William Paterson University of New Jersey and an English Subject Teaching Degree from Gävle Högskolan in Stockholm, Sweden. She speaks Bengali and Swedish fluently! She has years of experience in the media and publishing worlds. Rumki lives with her husband and their three daughters.

Instagram and Facebook @rumkitheauthor

Twitter @rumkichowdhury

www.rumki.com

The post Five Inspirational Hijabi Personalities appeared first on World Hijab Day.

How often are childless women considered to be bombarding burdens?

According to gender research (cited below), women are more prone to social pressure and forcibly dictated life decisions than men are. It is as if it’s a crime she is committing when not able to become a mother. I wonder how it is often the woman put into moral custody for something she has no control over when a man is not?!

For a lot of women, it is a natural progression to dream of motherhood. Only someone who has gone through the struggle of conceiving can understand how agonizing and self-depleting the journey is.  In addition, if one hears about a child’s nonexistence repeatedly, the suffering intensifies. Unfortunately, the majority of our Muslim ummah has long forgotten the etiquettes of social interactions and feel free to inappropriately meddle in someone’s very private struggles.

Prophet Muhammad صَلَّى ٱللّٰهُ عَلَيْهِ وَآلِهِ وَسَلَّمَ explicitly reminded the ummah: “I am not authorized to split people’s heart and become aware of their hidden and internal thoughts,” while in the Quran 49:12, it is stated, “Believers… do not spy.”

Moreover, being a mother is not the singular identity of a woman.  We all have limitations in our lives. Even if one has children, there will be some shortcomings in other aspects of the woman’s life. We need to remember, for example, Ayesha رضي الله عنه who had no children of her own, yet is regarded as one of the most respected and notable Muslims of all time. She is considered the second highest narrator of hadith or Islamic teachings after Abu Hurairah  رضي الله عنه. She dedicated her entire life to preserving and serving the knowledge of Islam after the demise of Prophet Muhammad

صَلَّى ٱللّٰهُ عَلَيْهِ وَآلِهِ وَسَلَّمَ. She is one of the core Faiqih for whom we have had the chance to know the Sunnah of our Prophet distinctively, after thousands of years. Great sahabas (companions of the Prophet صَلَّىٱللّٰهُ عَلَيْهِ وَآلِهِ وَسَلَّمَ) of that time, male and female, took lessons from her and leaders consulted  her regarding grave ministerial decisions.

What’s more, Ayesha رضي الله عنه was eighteen years old when the Prophet صَلَّى ٱللّٰهُ عَلَيْهِ وَآلِهِ وَسَلَّمَ passed away. Even after the death of the Prophet صَلَّى ٱللّٰهُ عَلَيْهِ وَآلِهِ وَسَلَّمَ, she lived for about 47 years. Yet, there is not a single narration in Islamic hadith reporting where she prayed for a child to Allah or lamented to the Prophet صَلَّى ٱللّٰهُ عَلَيْهِ وَآلِهِ وَسَلَّمَ.

 Allah says in the Quran, “Wealth and children are the adornments of this worldly life” (18:46) and, “Your wealth and your children are but a trial” ( 64:15). Testing is a part of life on earth. There is no way to live here without taking the exam. Therefore, having children or not, are tests from Allah. Motherhood is only one phase of a woman’s life if Allah wills it; It is not the sole measurement of failure or success in life. She is a person with her own dreams, desires and talents. She will have to answer to Allah for all her blessings, children or not.

Most often, maybe a childless woman wants to be satisfied with Allah’s decision by counting other blessings around her, but the people in her community keep her from doing it. According to hadith, the community is supposed to hold their tongue or avoid excessive talk unless in remembrance of Allah. They are supposed to be the barren woman’s source of mental peace and reassure her of her  worth as a Muslim, first. Childlessness is not a crime, but it can be a blessing in disguise. Allah knows best.

Sources (aside from Quran and Hadith):

Elizalde, J. (2021). “How Gender Roles, Social Expectations Affect Female First-Generation Students.” Texas A&M University College of Education & Human Development.

https://today.tamu.edu/2021/09/24/how-gender-roles-social-expectations-affect-female-fi

rst-generation-students/

 Flores, L. Y., Settles, I., McGillen, G. G., & M.Davis, T. “Critical Contributions to Scholarship on Women and Work: Celebrating 50 Years of Progress and Looking Ahead to a New Decade.” Journal of Vocational Behavior, 2021.

Hakim, C. “Women, Careers, and Work-Life Preferences.” British Journal of Guidance and Counseling, 2006.

Rahim, N. A., Mohamed, Z. B., Amrin, A., & Mohammad, R. “Women’s Dual Roles and Career Growth: A Preliminary Study of Malaysian Female Talents in Science, Engineering and Technology.” Journal of Physics: Conference Series, 2019.

About the Author:

Sumaiya Rabeya is a researcher and content writer. She is the co-founder of a Malaysia-based media-production company. Sumaiya is also a community volunteer, actively working on various projects related to Islamic dawah, social engagement and women. Born in 1989, she graduated with a degree in Politics and International Relations and is currently pursuing her Ph.D. in Gender Studies. Moreover, she has been working as a media content writer for over a decade. As a Bengali young mother, she feels responsible in creatively contributing to society.

The post Childlessness is Not a Crime appeared first on World Hijab Day.

While Muslim women, especially hijabi women, are painted by media as “oppressed,” we must wake up to the reality of the Islamic rights that they have. For one, there’s the pursuit of knowledge. The Prophet Muhammad صَلَّى ٱللَّٰهُ عَلَيْهِ وَسَلَّمَ said, “How splendid were the women of the Ansar; shame did not prevent them from becoming learned in the faith.” Moreover, according to the Prophet صَلَّى ٱللَّٰهُ عَلَيْهِ وَسَلَّمَ, seeking knowledge is a duty of every Muslim and it is also a path toward Paradise. Who better to have embodied this than Fatima Al-Fihri, who was dubbed by UNESCO as the founder of the world’s first-ever, degree-granting University, which also enlightened some of the world’s leading theorists, writers and scholars!

Due to a fire that damaged many historical documents which contained detailed information about Fatima Al-Fihri’s biography, we know little about her upbringing. What we do know comes from what was recorded by Ibn Abi-Zaraa, a 14th-century historian. To begin with, she was born around 800. We also know that her father, Muhammad Al-Fihri, was a successful and wealthy merchant. Not long after she got married did she lose her husband, father and brother. All she had left of her family was her sister, Maryam, with whom she shared a large inheritance. After having suffered so much loss in their lives, instead of folding into themselves, both Fatima and Maryam decided to use their inheritance money to give back to the society in which they lived, Fez. They had immigrated with their family from Tunisia to Morocco under the rule of Moroccan King Idriss II.  Little did they know then that they would, some day, buy land, on which they would build two mosques, a library and a University!

As Fatima’s family was among 2000 families called the “Qarawiyyin,” from Qayrawan, Tunisia, Fatima’s University was called the University of Qarawiyyin. Mind you, Fatima and Maryam were well-learned in Islamic jurisprudence and religious studies. Consequently, they not only built a University, but also two mosques: Fatima founded Al-Qarawiyyin and Maryam founded Al-Andalus. These mosques, the University and library were built over a period of eleven to eighteen years, depending on the source of information. Pious as she was, she began the construction in Ramadan and did so while fasting.

Evidently, there was nothing to stop Muslim women from achieving such dreams; in fact, they were and are still encouraged by Islam to do so. Think about it, Fatima Al-Fihri lived about 1200 years ago! And today, Muslim women, especially hijabi women, are considered “oppressed” when it is really Islamophobia and hijabophobia preventing them from pursuing and accomplishing their endeavors; take India’s current educational system in some cities, for example, where hijabi women are prohibited from attending schools, colleges and universities.

It was approximately 1200 years ago that Fatima Al-Fihri set out to educate children, teens and adults at her school (maktab in Arabic) and University (madrasa in Arabic), earning her the title of “Mother of Children.” While the University was the first of its kind in the world, Masjid Al-Qarawiyyin is considered one of the largest mosques in North Africa. In addition, the Al-Qarawiyyin University is known for educating students whom we know today as some of the greatest thinkers, theorists and writers: Muhammad Al-Fasi (jurist), Ibn al-Arabi (jurist), Leo Africanus (author and traveler), Ibn Khaldun (historian) and al-Bitruji, a.k.a. Alpetragius (astronomer).

This was greatly thanks to the incredible platform the University provided for such scholars, including organized symposiums and debates. There were also chairs and desks for the students.

Fatima Al-Fihri died around the age of 80. If only she could see how her one University was a gift to the world and humanity as we know it, today! Her name is honored in the form of a scholarship and academic program given to students from Europe and North Africa. In 2017, a prize was created in Tunisia in her honor, a prize that rewards women who initiate professional opportunities and training for women.

Fatima Al-Fihri, together with her sister, Maryam, created an environment that was professional for women as well as for men; they provided an educational institution and system, growing roots that would stem into dreams blooming in the heads of both boys and girls; they are legendary proof of what women are capable of achieving when driven, passionate and dedicated to a cause that matters to both themselves and to the society in which they live.

Sources:

http://www.kvinnofronten.nu/Formodrar/fatima-al-fihri.htm

https://muslimheritage.com/people/scholars/fatima-al-fihriya-2/

https://www.dw.com/en/fatima-al-fihri-founder-of-the-worlds-oldest-university/a-53371150

https://www.wisemuslimwomen.org/muslim-woman/fatima-al-fihri-6/

https://www.eurasiareview.com/28032022-fatima-al-fihri-the-woman-who-founded-worlds-first-university-oped/

https://www.eurasiareview.com/28032022-fatima-al-fihri-the-woman-who-founded-worlds-first-university-oped/

https://www.thesciencefaith.com/fatima-al-fihri-founder-of-worlds-very-first-university/

About the Author

Rumki Chowdhury is Editor of World Hijab Day Organization. Moreover, she has her own editing services. She is an award-winning published author. She has an MA in English Literature from Queen Mary University of London, a BA in English Writing from William Paterson University of New Jersey and an English Subject Teaching Degree from Gävle Högskolan in Stockholm, Sweden. She speaks Bengali and Swedish fluently! She has years of experience in the media and publishing worlds. Rumki lives with her husband and their three daughters.

Instagram and Facebook @rumkitheauthor

Twitter @rumkichowdhury

The post Fatima-Founder of the First University appeared first on World Hijab Day.