In Surah 24 of the Holy Quran, Surah An-Nur, Verse 31, Allah (SWT) commands Prophet Muhammed (PBUH) to address women of faith to observe modesty, Not just modesty of character, but Haya of clothing. They must follow the hijab of the eyes and adhere to the dress code specified by the Lord. 

"Say to the believing women that: they should cast down their glances and guard their private parts (by being chaste), and not display their beauty except what is apparent, and they should place their khumur over their bosoms."

In recent times, the concept of hijab and haya has been twisted by liberals, political leaders, and Muslim community members per what they believe is a 'modern' interpretation. While many claims that the hijab is a means of controlling women, dictating the autonomy of their bodies and whatnot, it is simply not the case. The hijab is much more than a piece of clothing that has been politicized to fit one's agenda, 

Instead, haya and hijab are a Muslim's declaration of their faith and obedience to Allah (SWT). It is part of their identity as practicing Muslims, one that shows everyone around that, indeed, they abide by the commandments given by Allah (SWT) to the Prophet Muhammed (PBUH).

Arguments Revolving The Hijab

Nowadays, one can see that wearing the hijab and observing modesty is considered a sign of oppression. Several worldwide leaders claim this is a patriarchal practice enforced upon women to subdue them. But, a true Muslim would know that the hijab gives them strength and provides a sense of security that no other article of clothing can, as stated in Surah 33, Surah Al-Ahzab, Verse 59, 

"O Prophet! Ask your wives, daughters, and believing women to draw their cloaks over their bodies. In this way, they will be more likely to be recognized ˹as virtuous˺ and not be harassed. And Allah is All-Forgiving, Most Merciful."

Several practising Muslim women from Islamic nations and non-Islamic nations wear the hijab. Unfortunately, these women are subject to vilification, demanding that they do not follow this so-called 'outdated' and 'oppressive' practice. 

However, many fail to understand that no woman observing the hijab and following the Islamic dress code is coerced. Islam gives women the choice to make their decisions of their own free will. While following haya and the hijab is not optional, be it for a man or woman, Muslims worldwide adhere to these commandments to practice their religion and please Allah (SWT).

Wearing the hijab and ensuring that they remain modest in their thoughts, actions, and appearance sets Muslims apart. They follow these commandments to strengthen their faith and come closer to their Rabb. Furthermore, the hijab is a physical barrier, shielding them from evil eyes and lustful gazes.

Islamic Way Of Wearing The Hijab

The concept of modesty has been stated clearly in the Quran several times. As quoted above, Surah An-Nur and Surah Al-Ahzab clearly state that practising Muslim women must cover themselves, from head to toe, in loose-fitting garbs to protect their modesty. Furthermore, they must hide their head and chest using headscarves and shield their awrah from others. While the notion of niqaab, or keeping the face covered in public, is still unclear, Muslim women must observe modesty of character and clothing. 

Hijab And The Modern World

In this world, as vanity and modernity are becoming increasingly prevalent, many women sacrifice their deen for the pleasure of this Dunya. However, several other practising Muslim women have adopted the hijab and made it a part of who they are. Whether wearing clothes with loose-fitting silhouettes, using Abayas or kaftans to keep themselves covered or opting for scarves to cover their heads and chest, these exceptional women show their obedience to Allah (SWT) by observing their rightful duties. 

Consequently, this trend has resulted in the emergence of modest fashion and Islamic clothing, designed to help women observe their modesty while remaining stylish. As these industries are gaining traction, one can only expect the hijab to become a common