– Fatima Sauloor
As I wrap my hijab around my head, I am reminded of the profound words of the Quran: “O Prophet, tell your wives and your daughters and the women of the believers to bring down over themselves [part] of their outer garments. That is more suitable that they will be known and not be abused.” (Surah Al-Ahzab, 33:59) These words, revealed to the Prophet Muhammad ﷺ, emphasise the importance of modesty and humility for women.
The hijab, a simple yet powerful piece of fabric has become an integral part of my identity. It is a symbol of my faith, my values, and my commitment to Allah. As the Quran states, “And say to the believing women that they should lower their gaze and guard their modesty; that they should not display their beauty and ornaments except what (must ordinarily) appear thereof; that they should draw their veils over their bosoms and not display their beauty except to their husbands, their fathers, their sons, their brothers or their sisters, or the slaves whom their right hands possess.” (Surah An-Nur, 24:31)
The hadith, a collection of the Prophet’s sayings and actions, also highlights the significance of hijab. As narrated by Aisha (may Allah be pleased with her), the Prophet said, “Modesty is a part of faith.” This hadith emphasises the importance of modesty and humility in our daily lives.
As I began to wear hijab, I faced numerous challenges and criticisms. Some people saw it as a symbol of oppression, while others viewed it as a restriction on my freedom. However, I knew that hijab was not about suppressing my individuality, but about embracing my true identity as a Muslim woman.
The hijab has given me a sense of pride, confidence, and self-respect. It reminds me that my worth and value come not from my physical appearance, but from my character, my actions, and my relationship with Allah. Hijab is beautiful,
Wear it with love,
Wear it with pride.
Today, I wear my hijab with pride, knowing that it is a symbol of my faith, my values, and my commitment to Allah. I am inspired by the stories of women like Sumayyah, (may Allah be pleased with her) who faced incredible challenges and yet remained steadfast in their faith. I am inspired by the Quran and the hadith, which remind me of the importance of modesty, humility, and self-respect.
To all the women who wear hijab, I say, you are not alone. You are part of a long tradition of strong, courageous, and devout women who have worn hijab as a symbol of their faith. You are part of a community that values modesty, humility, and self-respect. And to those who do not wear hijab, I say: respect our choice, respect our faith, and respect our identity.
In conclusion, the hijab is not just a piece of fabric, it is a symbol of my pride, my shield, and my strength. It reminds me of my faith, my values, and my commitment to Allah. As I wear my hijab, I am reminded of the words of the Quran: “And whoever fears Allah, He will make for him a way out, and provide for him from where he does not expect. And whoever relies upon Allah, then He is sufficient for him.” (Surah At-Talaq, 65:2-3).
