Surah Al-Ahzab(34:59) states: "O Prophet [PBUH] Tell thy wives and daughters and the believing women that they should put on their outer garments; that is most convenient in order that they may be recognized (as Muslims) and not be molested."
Both of the above Qur'anic references instruct the muslim woman to cover herself with a large, loose overcoat (JILBAB) and full head covering (KHIMAR) so that no provocative part of her body will be visible. Her modest appearance would make it clear to everyone that she is a chaste, believing woman, and no one is to molest her or sexually exploit her.
The HIJAB is a sort of "screen" between the chaste muslim woman and the evil that exists in the world. When a woman wears a HIJAB she is less likely to be harassed by men with lusty motives; She is less likely to be exploited for her beauty and feminity. The HIJAB allows a woman to move about outside the confines of her home with her attention on the tasks she has set out to do. The muslim woman does not try to impress anyone but Allah when outside of her home. She is not concerned if men find her attractive, or if people are impressed because she has the latest fashions, or the newest hairstyle. She leaves her home as a self-confident part of human race, not as a fashion-plate seeking stares and adoration in order to gain self-esteem.
The HIJAB cuts down on competition among women. How many people in
the West sacrifice financial savings and health in order to have
plastic surgery - in a desperate attempt to meet up to an unrealistic
standard of beauty. In Islam, women are appreciated for their
knowledge, piety and contribution to society. When women wear HIJAB
one finds that the most beautiful women are not necessarily the most
popular. Rather, a woman is assessed for her mind, and not just
superficial physical traits.
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