NIQAB IS NECESSARY IN ISLAM

I already made a post on whether wearing the Niqab is necessary in Islam here.

But not all people are convinced of the necessity of the Niqab. The other day in Madrasa, my teacher was explaining the importance of the Niqab in the light of the Quran and Hadith. I think I wrote everything in my post about the Niqab being obligatory. But here are a few more proof that wearing the Niqab is actually very important and obligatory in Islam. 

People who argue that the Niqab isn't necessary in Islam usually bring forward two Hadith. The first one is:

1) Narrated Aisha, Ummul Mu'minin: Asma, daughter of AbuBakr, entered upon the Apostle of Allah (sallalahu alaihi wasallam) wearing thin clothes. The Apostle of Allah (sallalahu alaihi wasallam) turned his attention from her. He said: O Asma', when a woman reaches the age of menstruation, it does not suit her that she displays her parts of body except this and this, and he pointed to her face and hands. (Narrated by Abu Dawood # 4092).

As we all know, the Quran wasn't revealed overnight. It was revealed in stages. Which brings us to the time the verse from Surah Noor was revealed. 

Narrated Safiya bint Shaiba:
‘Aisha used to say: “When (the Verse): “They should draw their veils over their necks and bosoms,” was revealed, (the ladies) cut their waist sheets at the edges and covered their faces with the cut pieces.” Volume 6, Book 60, Number 282: (Sahih Bukhari)

So, this proved that the Sahabi women covered their faces the moment that verse from Surah Al-Ahzab, verse 59 was revealed. Now tell me, wouldn't Asma (ral), the daughter of Abu Bakr (ral) a prominent Sahaba, have covered her face too? Of course she would have! They were the Sahaba women, and they followed Allah's orders the moment it was revealed!

So, isn't it obvious that the Hadith mentioned above would probably have taken place before the revelation of the verse in Surah Ahzab? Niqab wouldn't have been necessary before that verse was sent down, but it's obvious that the wives and daughters of Prophet Muhammad sallalahu alaihi wasallam clearly saw the Niqab as obligatory after that verse from Surah Al-Ahzab- which is why they covered their faces immediately after that verse was revealed!

The next Hadith now. 

2) The Prophet (saws) said: "A pilgrim woman must neither cover her face nor wear gloves." Related by Bukhari and Ahmad

People who argue that the Niqab isn't necessary bring forward this Hadith too saying that if women weren't required to cover their faces in Hajj they obviously wouldn't have had to cover their faces outside of Hajj as well.
Well, this Hadith doesn't show the Niqab isn't necessary. It shows that the Niqab IS necessary. Doesn't this Hadith actually imply that women outside of their Ihram actually covered their faces? Otherwise, Prophet Muhammad (sallalahu alaihi wasallam) wouldn't have mentioned that women should uncover their faces in Hajj if they weren't required to cover it in the first place.

Furthermore, there is another Hadith that you'll be interested in:

It was narrated that ‘Aa’ishah said: The riders used to pass by us when we were with the Messenger of Allaah (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) in ihraam. When they came near us we would lower our jilbaabs from our heads over our faces, and when they had passed by we would uncover our faces. [Narrated by Abu Dawood, 1562]

You see sisters, this is the difference between us and the Sahabi women. When Allah ordered them to do something, they did it immediately. They recognized that verse in Surah Al-Ahzab. They understood that they were required to cover their faces. So they never hesitated in following it. 

And we? When the Sahabi women never wasted a minute after that verse was revealed to cover their faces, we spend years and years contemplating- even arguing- that the Niqab isn't necessary!

If the women at the time of Prophet Muhammad (sallalahu alaihi wasallam) covered their faces, shouldn't we be doing it as well? After all, aren't they the women we should be following? 

It's up to us to decide whether we ought to wear the Niqab or not. I've done by best explaining it. Following it or not is up to you.

Wallahu 'Alam.

Jazakallah Khair!

Note: You can read our post about Is Wearing the Niqab Obligatory in Islam here  

http://niqablovers.blogspot.com/2012/07/is-wearing-niqab-fardh.html

I AM FREE MUSLIM NIQABI

I know that a LOT of people out there immediately associate a modest women in her Hijab or Niqab as limited, oppressed, subjugated and uneducated. Well, people who think that way ought to know that they are the ones who are limited, oppressed, subjugated and uneducated so much to the extent that they fail to realize that we Muslims women wear what we want and they have absolutely no right to question what we are doing out of love. 

For those who live under the wrong impression that the Niqab limits my freedom, take my word on what freedom really is. 

I don't have to enlighten anyone on the time and effort women make to beautify themselves. How many hours do women spend in front of the mirror, applying make-up, choosing the best dress, the best shoes, the best hair-do, the best hairpins, etc, etc, etc? But for whom do they do all this? Are they so insecure with the way they look, that they have to spend hours in front of the mirror beautifying themselves so they look appealing in the eyes of others? 

Well, I certainly don't. I'm perfectly secure with the way I am and when I go out with my Niqab, I don't have to spend hours before the mirror beautifying myself for people to see. 

No.

I dress for myself. I'm free to dress the way I want. I am free to cover up. I am free to walk outside, knowing fully well that I don't have to impress people to make myself feel secure. 

In other words, I am free. So much more free than all those Niqab haters can ever perceive. To them my Niqab might appear to oppress me, but they'll never understand how liberating it is for me and all those countless Niqabis out there.

You know why? Because I don't dress for people or the world. I don't have to follow the latest fashion trends to be beautiful. I don't have to apply make-up to make myself beautiful. I don't have to spend hours before the mirror before going out just so I look presentable to the world. 

I wear what I want, for myself and for pleasing Allah. Because only in doing so do am I free. I feel free. I know deep inside of me that I am free.

A SUNNAH THAT INSPIRED A MAN AND WOMAN TO ACCEPT ISLAM

It's amazing how Allah gives guidance and shows the light of Islam to non-Muslims. I've heard a lot of stories about simple acts of Sunnah and kindness that have inspired people to embrace Islam. Subhanallah, guidance is really from Allah and it's up to us to act in a way that inspires and attracts others to the beauty of Islam. 

So here is one of those stories I heard in Madrasa. You can read my other post about "A simple Sunnah that inspired a woman to accept Islam" here. 

A husband and wife somewhere in America noticed a group of Muslims eating on the road together from one large plate. Taking it to be unusual behavior, the man and woman approached this group of men who were eating and inquired as to why they were eating this way. (That is, sitting on the floor, eating with the hands and eating from the same plate). The group of Muslims simply said that to eat out of the same plate was a Sunnah of our beloved Prophet Muhammad (sallalahu alaihi wasallam) and that eating this way helped to create mutual love and unity among them. 

That was all they said, and the couple went home. But this incident just kept coming back to them and both of them decided to eat from one plate as those people had done and see how true it was. Amazingly, after following this Sunnah for a few days, they gradually noticed that they grew in mutual love and affection as those Muslims had mentioned. Amazed by the truth and wisdom behind this simple Sunnah, the couple decided to investigate and research more about Islam, ultimately proclaiming the Kalimah and becoming Muslims. Allahu Akbar!

Isn't is amazing how a simple act of Sunnah can inspire people towards Islam? Dawah needn't necessarily be spread through the mouth; rather, the best kind of Dawah is the guidance you give through your actions. 

Our victory lies in the Sunnah and upholding it will be the cause of our salvation and the cause of guidance in other people too In Sha Allah. Dear Muslims, we are the flagbearers of Islam, and we should be an example to people everywhere. Let your speech, your actions, your attitudes and your behavior invite people to Islam. Be a standing inspiration and guidance to all. May Allah help give us the opportunity of being the cause of another person's guidance!

WHY ARE MUSLIMS AGAINST MY NIQAB?

I can take any amount of insult from a non-Muslim towards my Niqab because they don't understand how beautiful it truly is. But when it's a Muslim who does it, that's a totally different story. I really don't get it. When they should in fact be backing us up for wearing the Niqab (okay, no need encouragement, remaining silent about it would do), they go about looking down on the Niqab, calling it 'cultural' and 'not necessary' in Islam. Personally, I believe that wearing the Niqab is obligatory as do many Scholars in Islam, so why don't them leave me to do what I want?

I've had Muslims call me a 'ninja' for my Niqab and I've seen many Muslims laugh at it. It really hurts to see your own Muslim brother or sister ridiculing something that is encouraged in Islam. Just one word here: If you call me a Ninja or whatever other names you do for my Niqab, you're in fact saying nearly the same thing to the wives of Prophet Muhammad (sallalahu alaihi wasallam), his daughters and other Sahabi women. So, weigh your words (insults in this case) before throwing them at Niqabis.

You may not like the Niqab- leave it at that. Don't go about discouraging, insulting or hurting a Niqabi for wearing it. If Prophet Muhammad (sallalahu alaihi wasallam) saw it right for his wives and daughters to wear the Niqab, so do I and so should every true follower of Prophet Muhammad (sallalahu alaihi wasallam). And remember that whether I wear the Niqab or not, I'm still your sister in Islam. Don't change Islam to support your opinion; change your opinions so that it doesn't contradict Islam.

I'm not saying this just for myself- I'm talking here on behalf of all the Niqabis who have to put up with insults from their very own Muslim brothers and sisters.

Underneath the Niqab, is a woman, and that woman is a human being, and every human being has a heart, and every heart has feelings. Please respect that.

THE WISDOM BEHIND THE NIQAB AND HIJAB

''O Prophet! Tell your wives and your daughters and the women of the believers to draw their veils all over their bodies. That is most convenient that they should be known and not molested." (Surah Al-Ahzab: 59)

Subhanallah, I couldn't agree any better! But what else can we expect? It's the words of Allah, and the words of Allah are always true. 

I know that lots of non-Muslims have a hundred insults up their sleeves for Hijabis and Niqabis, but it's very clear that even under all their insults, they have some respect for Muslim women who are covered as Allah has asked them to. You may wonder why? Well, it's for the simple reason that when you see a woman who respects herself and her body, people are naturally inclined to respect her. 

Let's face it. With nudity and semi-nudity becoming ever so apparent and ordinary now, it's a rare sight to see a modest woman. So these women stand out. They demand respect for their modesty. And although a few people may insult them, they are not molested. See, this is exactly what Allah has said in the Quran. These women will be known, not molested. And being insulted is certainly different from being molested. According to the online dictionary, this is what "insulted" and "molested" means:

Insulted:   To treat with gross insensitivity, insolence, or contemptuous rudeness. 

        To affront or demean.

Molested:   To disturb, interfere with, or annoy.

         To subject to unwanted or improper sexual activity.

Notice the difference?

I recently read a very interesting story about a sister, who wore the Hijab, but spent about an hour in front of the mirror, accessorizing and beautifying their Hijab. Well, one day, she set outside and was approached by an old man, who tried to engage this sister in some shameful behaviour. It was then that she realized that something of her Hijab, the way she was dressed and the way she carried herself had attracted this man. She realized that her Hijab needed correction. MashaAllah, this sister decided to wear the Jilbab, and Alhamdulillah, she never had any such experiences afterwards. She realized then what Allah meant by the verse "That is most convenient that they should be known and not molested."

Have you ever seen a proper Hijabi being "checked out" by a random man, being invited for a drink and lead on and on? Well, I certainly have not. And why is that? Because men admire and respect Hijabis and Niqabis. They know that their flattering, "checking out" and invitations won't work with such women. They understand that these women are special and they won't for fall for random flings and relationships. 

And sisters, if any of you'll have been approached as such by any men, know that you're Hijab needs to be corrected. You believe in the words of Allah right? Then you ought to know that if you wear the Hijab, you will NOT be molested in any way. 

Being a Hijabi is such a blessing! It's really a huge gift from Allah. Subhanallah, if only everyone else realized!

WHAT TYPE OF HIJABI ARE YOU?

Hijab has sadly become a largely distorted order of Allah, and it's really, nothing but worrying to see what the Hijab has become in the recent past. 

I know everything undergoes some kind of evolution with time, but the commands in Islam are timeless, and it's meant to be upheld and not distorted over time. So what evolution has the Hijab undergone? For a start, Google "Hijab fashion show" and "Hijab styles". 
Done? 
So now you can see for yourself what the Hijab has been reduced to. From everything starting from "Summer Hijab Fashion" to "Hijab trends 2012", they have it all. And what's more than sad to see is that our women are falling headlong into the trap of these Hijab trends and fashion.

So basically, Hijabis can be narrowed down to 5 categories. Choose for yourself which category you fall into:

1- HALF/INCOMPLETE HIJABI

How has the Hijab been ordered by Allah? 

"O Prophet! Tell your wives and your daughters and the women of the believers to draw their cloaks ("Jalabib") veils all over their bodies that is most convenient that they should be known (as such) and not molested: and Allah is Oft-Forgiving Most Merciful." [Surah Al-Ahzab: 59].

So you see, this Hijab ordered by Allah in the Quran is the complete Hijab. Any Hijab that falls short of this definition is an incomplete Hijab. 

Which brings us to the Hijab of the present. Somehow, most people, Muslims included, perceive the Hijab to be merely a headcover, but this verse above clearly says that we should "draw our cloaks over all their bodies". Doesn't this simply refer to the Jilbab or the Abaya? 

Ask yourself if wearing the Hijab headcover with tight-fitting skinny jeans, short T-shirts and transparent clothing is ok. How can this type of Hijab be complete if you have not met the purpose of the Hijab- which is to conceal your adornments.

And what is the correct Hijab? I'll come to that.

2- GLITZY HIJABI

Ever come across pages online that give advice on how to 'glam up your Hijab'? Well, that's exactly what I'm talking here. Accessorizing the Hijab is simply unacceptable. Why? Because it has not been allowed in Islam. See this verse here:

“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 is apparent of it and that they should draw their veils over their bosoms.” (Surah Noor 24:31) 

So, do you think that 5 layers of make-up, fancy brooches and Hijab pins and whatever other accessories that Hijabis put up nowadays is allowed? It has clearly been stated in the Quran "Not display their beauty and adornments" and we still find it acceptable to glam up our Hijabs?

3- PART-TIME HIJABI

Islam isn't a seasonal or part-time commitment.  If we call ourselves Muslims, we should practice Islam every moment of our lives at any place, anywhere. 

“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 therof; that they should draw their veils over their bosoms and not display their beauty except to their husbands, their fathers, their husbands' fathers, their sons, their husbands' sons, their brothers, or their brothers' sons or their sisters' sons, or their women or the servants whom their right hands possess, or male servants free of physical needs, or small children who have no sense of the shame of sex, and that they should not strike their feet in order to draw attention to their hidden ornaments. And O you Believers, turn you all together towards Allah, that you may attain Bliss.” (Quran 24:31).

So, taking off your Hijab in the presence of men who are not mentioned in this verse also falls into the category of part-time Hijabis.

So what about these part-time Hijabis? Wearing the Hijab only when they are in the company of 'religious' people and taking it off when they feel ashamed of wearing the Hijab in front of their friends or in certain places. This is not something that is even marginally acceptable. How can you fulfil a command of Allah only when you feel like it and walk away from it when you don't feel like it?

4- RELUCTANT HIJABI

As I've said countless times before, the Hijab is an order from Allah and if you know anyone who doesn't wear the Hijab, you should try your best and advice them to wear it. 

So, reluctant Hijabis are as you might have guessed already, those Muslimahs who are not ready for the Hijab yet, but are forced to wear it because their parents want them to. You see sisters, you should wear the Hijab with love and pride. It's a beautiful blessing from Allah to us, and we should be able to wear the Hijab with our heads held high. What's the point of wearing the Hijab when you don't want to? 

5- A COMPLETE HIJABI

This is the best, most beautiful, most honourable, most respectful and most amazing Hijab ever! And although only a few women are ready to put on the complete Hijab, those who do so are undoubtedly earning numerous rewards from Allah!

So what's a complete Hijabi? Well, it's the Hijab worn by the wives and daughters of Prophet Muhammad sallalahu alaihi wasallam and the Sahaba women. How was their Hijab? Refer to this Hadith below:

It was narrated that ‘Aa’ishah said: “The riders used to pass by us when we were with the Messenger of Allaah (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) in ihraam.When they came near, each of us would lower her jilbaab from her head over her face, and when they passed by we would uncover (our faces).” [Narrated by Abu Dawood, 1833; Ahmad, 24067]

They wore the Jilbab and the Niqab and this, my dear sisters in Islam, is the Hijab worn at the time of Prophet Muhammad sallalahu alaihi wasallam and this fact alone makes it the complete Hijab.

So, which category do you fall into? If it's anything but the last, I suggest that you correct your Hijab and your intentions. You may not want to wear the Niqab, but even if you do wear your Hijab with an Abaya or loose fitting clothes, that's good MashaAllah. But wouldn't you want to take that one step forward and wear the kind of Hijab worn by the Sahaba women and the wives and daughters of Prophet Muhammad sallalahu alaihi wasallam?

Choose for yourself which kind of Hijabi you'd want to be. And choose wisely.

WHAT STOPS YOU FROM WEARING THE HIJAB?

10 years ago, you’d find almost every Muslim woman with the Hijab, but now, most women make excuses for not wearing the Hijab. Fast forward another 10 years and who knows if we’d find as many Hijabis as we find now, may Allah save us!

So here are a few excuses people make for not wearing the Hijab, and the solutions for it in case you find yourself in a position where you have to convince a non-Hijabi on the stern obligation of the Hijab.

HIJAB ISN’T NECESSARY 

Lately, I’ve come across quite a lot of pages online saying the Hijab isn’t obligatory in Islam. I don’t know how they can even manage to say something like that when the Hijab is ordered explicitly in the Quran in Surah Al-Ahzab and Surah Noor.

“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 is apparent of it and that they should draw their veils over their bosoms.” (Surah Noor 24:31)
‘O Prophet! Tell your wives and your daughters and the women of the believers to draw their cloaks ("Jalabib") veils all over their bodies that is most convenient that they should be known (as such) and not molested: and Allah is Oft-Forgiving Most Merciful." (Surah Al-Ahzaab: 59) 

If a woman calls herself a Muslim, it means that she’s convinced that Islam is the truth. If she is convinced that Islam is the truth, how can she not be convinced of the orders and laws in Islam? Now, seeing as the Hijab is an order in Islam ordained by Allah and revealed in the Quran, how can she not follow an order of Allah? A true Muslim woman will be in her Hijab wherever she is and she’ll never make excuses for not wearing it.

MY PARENTS DON’T ALLOW ME TO WEAR THE HIJAB 

The Messenger of Allah (sallallahu alaihi wa sallam) said “There is no obedience to the creation in the disobedience of Allah”. [Ahmed]

How can you obey your parents while disobeying Allah, who created your parents in the first place? You have to obey your parents-yes- but you can disobey them when they make you disobey Allah. Allah has said in the Quran : “But if they strive with you to make you join in worship with Me others that of which you have no knowledge, then obey them not.” [Sura Luqmaan 31:15]

I WOULDN’T BE ABLE TO FIND A JOB WITH MY HIJAB/ MY JOB DOESN’T ALLOW ME TO WORK WITH THE HIJAB

If you go out, you have to be in your Hijab. There are no “but”s, there are no “if”s. If you think that wearing the Hijab is going to stop you from finding work, remember this is nothing but the whispers of Shaytan. There are some companies that do not allow the Hijab, but even if there are 10 such companies there surely should be at least 1 company that allow you to wear the Hijab, right?

If your workplace doesn’t permit the Hijab, find another job. Remember that you sacrificed your job for Allah so He will look into helping you. Allah says in the Quran “And whoever fears Allah and keeps his duty to Him, He will make a way for him to get out (from every difficulty) and He will provide him from sources he never could imagine” [Sura At-Talaaq 65:2-3].
Subhanallah, isn’t this not a big enough guarantee for you? What do you think is bigger: this excuse for not wearing the Hijab or Allah’s promise in the Quran? Think for yourself.

I’M TOO YOUNG FOR THE HIJAB!

When Angel of death comes, he doesn’t send a postcard. You never know if you’ll be alive tomorrow, so how can you say you’ll wear the Hijab when you’re older? Sisters, don’t wait for your funeral shroud to be the first time you wear the Hijab. Wear the Hijab now- you know it an obligation- and every moment you’re out without it, you’re earning for yourself the wrath of Allah. Is it worth it?

IT’S SOOO HOT UNDER THE HIJAB!

Yes it is- maybe sometimes, but certainly not always. And remember, Hell is way hotter.
“Say: The Fire of Hell is more intense in heat if they only understand” [Sura At-Taubah 9:81]

The heat of this world is nothing in comparison to the heat of the Fire. Are you ready to face the heat of this world or the heat of Jahannam? The Sahaba women managed to cover themselves completely, from head to toe, and that was in the desert. Subhanallah! How hot can the desert sun be? And here we are, making excuses for not wearing the Hijab just because we’d have to endure a little bit of heat for a short time. Is it even justifiable?

I CAN’T HIDE MY BEAUTY WITH THE HIJAB! 

Firstly, the Hijab doesn’t hide your beauty. It only makes you a lot more beautiful. You know who the most beautiful woman is? She’s the one who covers herself for the sake of Allah and when you cover for the sake of Allah, that in itself, makes you a thousand times more beautiful!

Secondly, who gave you your beauty? Isn’t it a blessing from Allah? And what kind of gratitude are you showing to Allah for having blessed you with beauty when you disobey His order of the Hijab? If Allah has given you beauty, the best way of thanking Him for it is by doing what He has asked you to. 

I’LL WEAR THE HIJAB WHEN I’M READY 

Sisters, there’s absolutely nothing to be ‘ready’ for. Hijab is ordered in the Quran, and if you’re waiting until you’re ready to wear it, that time might never come. And is this the excuse you’re going to give Allah on the Day of Judgement when He asks you what stopped you from wearing the Hijab? Think about it.

NO ONE WILL MARRY ME IF I WEAR THE HIJAB 

If a man is unwilling to marry you for the simple reason that you wear the Hijab, know that that man isn’t worth marrying in the first place. Are you willing to marry a man who doesn’t want to follow the commands of Allah? A real man and a real husband would obviously want his wife to be covered in the Hijab. Don’t sacrifice your Deen for a man. And just a small note: there are plenty of men out there who are more than willing to marry a girl with the Hijab. Don’t take your hijab off just because the one you’re going to marry doesn’t want you to wear it. Again, there is absolutely no obedience to the creation in the disobedience of Allah.

I’D FEEL WEIRD WITH THE HIJAB

Why should you feel weird by obeying Allah? You should only feel weird when you disobey Allah!

"Islam started as something strange and it would revert to its (old position) of being strange. So good tidings for the strangers.
(Sahih Muslim, Book 1 : Hadith 270)

Sisters, there’s nothing to feel weird about with the Hijab. Remember that the Hijab is a beautiful gift for you from Allah. It helps you guard your modesty, your chastity, upholds your dignity, defines your femininity, demands respect for your womanhood and gives you a sense of liberation and security no other piece of clothing can offer. How can you feel weird when you’re wearing the most amazing dress?

PEOPLE WILL CALL ME A TERRORIST IF I WEAR THE HIJAB

So be it. Let people call you whatever they want. Remember that you’re doing this for Allah, not for people so don’t make the opinions of people matter. Only the opinion of Allah does. Hold tight to the rope of Allah and obey His commands- and don’t worry a bit about what people say! Let them say all they want. You’re doing what Allah has asked you to do, so stand tall and strong! You’re a Muslim woman!!!

*           *          * 

Dear sisters, remember that no excuse comes even close to justifying your reasons for not wearing the Hijab. As a Muslimah, you're way too precious to be on display for every single man to see. All the fashionable dresses, all the glamourous make-up and jewelry and all the flashy hairstyles will please people- not Allah. And do you think it’s worth pleasing people at the cost of displeasing Allah, your Creator?

Finally, remember that the Hijab is a lot more than just a headscarf. Hijab is a way of life and it should be with you wherever you go. Wear the perfect Hijab, please Allah and give us all Muslims a reason to hold our heads high! Now go show the world that you are a Hijabi!

WHAT'S WITH THIS "DON'T JUDGE ME"?

Giving Dawah is tough, particularly with each passing day. Somehow, everyday, I come across something flashing 'DON'T JUDGE ME". At first, I thought it was fair enough (at least in some cases), but lately this 'Don't Judge Me' phenomenon has gripped almost all Muslims.

I've tweeted quite a lot about correcting our Hijab on Twitter, and almost each time, I get a reply tweet from a sister/brother saying 'You have no right to judge us, only Allah does'. Of course I agree with it, I've no right to judge anyone and Allah is the only Judge, but it's your duty and mine to tell others about what's right and wrong. And when I try to get this explained... well the results are just not satisfactory. 

• Allah says ''So admonish/remind them that maybe the reminder will be of benefit and as for him who fears Allah he will be reminded but as for the wretched one he will turn away'' [Quran 87:9-11] 

• "You are the best nation amongst mankind because you command the good (Islam), you forbid evil (sins), and you believe in Allah [ Surat Al 'Imran, 110] 

• Prophet Muhammad (sallalhu alaihi wasallam) said "If you see a munkar (unislamic act), you change it with your hand; and if you cannot do that, then change it with your mouth (speak out against it); and if you cannot do that, then forbid it in your heart; and that is the least of belief." 

So you see, enjoining good, encouraging others towards good and advising them against going in the wrong path is the duty of a Muslim. In Dawah, no one is judging no one. We just want to correct the mistakes.

I've mostly seen this 'Don't Judge Me' paranoia with regard to the Hijab. For example, if you quote this Hadith "There will be women who will be dressed but they will be naked. Their heads will be like the humps of camels. They will not enter Jannah and will not even smell the scent of Jannah while it can be smelt from a far distance.'' [Sahih Muslim] to enlighten Muslim women about the recent "Camel-Hump Hijab Style", they naturally bring on the 'Don't Judge Me' talk. If we know a sin, and don't prevent others from doing it, we are all responsible of answering to Allah- the real Judge- on the Day of Judgement.

And again, advising sisters not to adorn their Hijab, wear tight-fitting clothes, cake their faces with 5 layers of make-up and stop interacting with non-mahrams, is almost always sure to end up with a barrage of 'Don't Judge Me's". They say that maybe they wear that way, but they may be closer to Allah than us. Of course I agree with that. We're not talking about the level of closeness of that person to Allah. What we're trying to correct is their way of wearing the Hijab. We can't cut through someone's heart to see their level of Imaan but just remember this: If you have real Imaan, you'd want to dress the way Allah wants you to. You'd wear the proper Hijab and maintain that Hijab throughout your life.

If saying 'Dont Judge Me' is your way of expressing "If I commit a sin, it is between me and my God; so stay out of my business!", then may Allah guide you. If Islam asks us to encourage good and forbid evil and do Dawah, it sure is going to be difficult if everyone is going to say 'Don't Judge Me'.

There are some instances where you have to say 'Don't judge me', as in when someone tries to judge your actions rather than your intentions, but there's a way of saying it. For example, even if it's Dawah, you shouldn't go about a person who hasn't yet prayed his/her Asr prayers and tell them, "You didn't pray Asr yet? What kind of Muslim are you?" or somewhere along that line. Rather, you should make them feel comfortable with your Dawah by saying, "I'm going to pray my Asr Salah. You want to join me?" That's Dawah, and that's what will help our Muslims everywhere.

Some people say that the Islam is in the hearts, not in the beard or Hijab. What they clearly fail to understand is that when Islam is in the heart, the Hijab and beard follow automatically.

I'm sorry if what I've said has hurt anyone in any way, but honestly, I've tried to ignore all this 'Don't judge me's". Yet, after seeing this trend picking up faster and faster, I thought it's best if I addressed it now, so that hopefully In Sha Allah, we'd have more Muslims accepting their mistakes and correcting it rather than saying 'Don't judge me' and continuing with that sin.

EID MUBARAK

It's been some while since I last blogged, but here goes my Eid wishes!

Alhamdulillah, we've been given another Eid, another day for celebration. However, while we are celebrating, hundreds of Muslims are suffering. Just this morning, a suicide bomb attack in a mosque killed at least 41 people. There on the other side, Muslims in Syria are yet protesting, even on the day of Eid to fight for their freedom.  The Muslim prisoners, on the other hand, have to celebrate their Eid in their dingy prison cells. And obviously  there are countless other unspoken incidents through which our own Muslims brothers and sisters are suffering. And not to forget, the needy Muslims, who have to spend their Eid just like any other day- with dirty, patched clothes, no food to eat and no shelter. It's sad to see.

We are celebrating, our Muslims brothers are sisters are suffering. The least we could do is remember them in our Duas. And remember, Eid is a special day, so make it all the more special by pouring out your special Duas and asking from Allah- He's sure to answer you In Sha Allah!

May Allah shower His blessings and fill the lives of all Muslims with peace, prosperity, happiness and Taqwa on the beautiful day of Eid and always. Wishing all Muslims a blessed Eid! 

Remember the Muslim Ummah in your Duas, don't ingore the needy Muslims, and if you can spare a few minutes, please make some Dua for us too :)

SIGNIFICANCE OF THE 10 DAYS OF DHUL HIJJAH

“By the dawn; By the 10 nights” [al-Fajr 89:1-2]. Subhanallah, for Allah to make a promise on the first 10 days of Dhul Hijjah, you can imagine how significant these days are.

Abu Hurairah relates that the Messenger of Allah (sallahu alaihi wasallam) said, “There are no days more loved to Allah for you to worship Him therein than the ten days of Dhul Hijja. Fasting any day during it is equivalent to fasting one year and to offer salatul tahajjud (late-night prayer) during one of its nights is like performing the late night prayer on the night of power. [i.e., Lailatul Qadr].” [Related by at-Tirmidhi, Ibn Majah, and al-Baihaqi]

The Prophet (sallalahu alaihi wasallam) commanded us to recite a lot of Tasbeeh (“Subhan-Allah”), Tahmeed (“Al-hamdu Lillaah”) and Takbeer (“Allaahu akbar”) during this time.

Abdullaah ibn ‘Umar (may Allah be pleased with him and his father) reported that the Prophet (sallalahu alaihi wasallam) said: “There are no days greater in the sight of Allah and in which righteous deeds are more beloved to Him than these ten days, so during this time recite a great deal of Tahleel (“La ilaaha ill-Allah”), Takbeer and Tahmeed.” (Reported by Ahmad, 7/224; Ahmad Shaakir stated that it is saheeh).





Even if we are not able to fast during the first 9 days of Dhul Hijjah, we should never miss out on fasting on the Day of Arafah. Fasting on the day of Arafah is of huge significance as well, and it has been stated that fasting on this day wipes out the sins committed during the previous year and the year to come Subhanallah!

During these 10 days, we should remember Allah abundantly, engage in doing a lot of Amal and do things that are sure to earn for us the pleasure of Allah.

Ibn Umar (ral) and Abu Huraira (ral) would go into the marketplaces during these days and raise their voices in Takbir. The people in the marketplace would then also raise their voices with the Takbir the Takbir in response [Sahih Bukhari]. This way, marketplaces, a place hated by Allah becomes a place filled with His remembrance, Subhanallah!

Now, being well aware of the significance of these ten days, we as Muslims, should welcome the 10 days of Dhul Hijjah with the same fervor and enthusiasm as we anticipate and welcome the blessed month of Ramadhan.

WHAT ARE THE RECOMMENDED ACTS IN THESE DAYS?

1. Prayer - It is highly recommended to perform the obligatory acts at their prescribed times (as early as possible) and to increase oneself in the superogatory acts, for indeed, this is what brings a person closer to their Lord. The Messenger of Allah, upon whom be peace, said:

"Upon you is to increase in your prostration to Allah, for verily you do not prostrate to Allah with even one prostration, except that He raises you in degrees and decreases your sins because of it." [Reported by Muslim]

2. Fasting - "The Prophet, upon whom be peace, would fast on the ninth of Dhul-Hijjah, the day of Ashura and three days in every month." [Recorded by Ahmad, Abu Dawud, an-Nisa'i and others]

Imam an-Nawawi said that fasting in these ten days is extremely recommended.

3. Saying allahu akbar, la illaha illallah and alhamdulillah - It is found in the aforementioned narration of Ibn 'Umar:

"So increase yourselves in saying la illaha illallah, allahu akbar and alhamdulillah."

Strive with us, O Muslims in reviving this Sunnah that has become lost in these times and it was almost forgotten, even amongst the people of righteousness.

There are a number of ways of making takbir that have been narrated by the companions and their followers and from these ways is the following:

• Allahu akbar, allahu akbar, allahu akbar kabirun.
• Allahu akbar, allahu akbar, la ilaha illallah, wallahu akbar, wallahu akbar, wa lillahil hamd.
• Allahu akbar, allahu akbar, allahu akbar, la ilaha illallah, wallahu akbar, allahu akbar wa lillahil hamd.

4. Fasting on the day of 'Arafah - Fasting has been affirmed on the day of 'Arafah, where it has been confirmed from the Prophet, peace be upon him, that he said regarding fasting on the day of 'Arafah:

"Be content with the fact that Allah will expiate for you your sins for the year before (the day of 'Arafah) and the year after (the day of 'Arafah)." [Reported by Muslim]

Let's make the most of it, In Sha Allah.

WHY I WEAR THE NIQAB

Many people have asked me what made me wear the Niqab. To be honest, there was nothing in particular that made me wear the Niqab. My mother and older sisters were already wearing the Niqab, and I felt it was only right that I did the same. I've always have an incredible awe for the Niqab, and even before I started wearing it, I used to put my mother's Niqab, just to see if it would look good on me. Alhamdulillah, Allah blessed me with the opportunity of wearing the Niqab. Everyday since then, has been a tremendous journey towards being prouder of my identity as a Muslim and a prouder slave of Allah. I've never looked back since!

Thankfully, my family never objected to my choice of wearing the Niqab. In fact, they only encouraged it, so my Niqab journey has been very smooth, Alhamdulillah, apart from a few relatives who thought that I was too young for the Niqab and that it wasn't necessary, and of course, a few insults I get from non-Muslims. Although I live in a Muslim minority country, the non-Muslims have never done anything more than laugh, snigger or call me a 'ninja' for wearing the Niqab. So a huge Alhamdulillah for that!

What inspired me to wear the Niqab? For one thing, I stick to the opinion that Wearing the Niqab is compulsory. The other thing is that the wives and daughters of Prophet Muhammad (sallalahu alaihi wassalam) all wore the Niqab, as did the other Sahaba women. These are the women we should be following, and to be among those who follow in their footsteps... I feel so privileged, Alhamdulillah!

Even if the Niqab isn't obligatory, there is no doubt that it's highly recommended in Islam, and Wallahi, I fear the Day of Judgement when I'll be standing before Allah and He'll question me for not wearing the Niqab when I knew that it was either Fardh or highly recommended in Islam. What would I ever answer to Him?

The other reason, which is probably my strongest and proudest reason for wearing the Niqab, is that I know deep down (as I'm sure all other Muslimahs do as well), that the more you sacrifice for the sake of Allah, the more you'll be rewarded and the more Allah will love you. And of course, the Niqab comes with a lot of sacrifices, so I know that if I'm prepared to take that step, Allah will reward me for it and He'll love me for it (hopefully), and this reason in itself is a more than sufficient reason for me to wear the Niqab.

The Niqab acts like a huge shield for me. No, it doesn't cut me away from the world or the society. It's just that when there is so much of corruption in the world now, I feel so very protected with my Niqab on. It's tough to explain how it feels. It's just the sort of thing that can only be felt, not said. If there are thousands of Niqabis out there who say that the Niqab has liberated them, it's because it really has. Wallahi is does. And I can walk freely knowing that I'm covered and I'm protected- just as Islam wants me to be.

HOW COOL IS TO SWEAR?

Using foul language has become the trend now. The latest trend where the "cool people" swear at everyone and everything. When I say everything, I mean not just humans and animals. They somehow manage to swear the things. They knock their legs against a table, and most of you'll would have heard the swearing. It just seems as though people have gotten so used to swearing that they can hardly manage to speak a single sentence without some kind of foul language.

"LMFAO" "WTF" "OMFG"... I'm sure all of you'll know it stands for. Well, the last one certainly shocked me, Subhanallah! People use it as though it's the easiest and simplest thing ever. But have you ever given a thought to the weight of using such words? Just see these Hadith mentioned below:

• Ibn Mas'ud narrates that Prophet (sallallahu alaihi wa sallam) said, "To swear at a Muslim is sinful and to kill a muslim is kufr (disbelief). (agreed by Bukhari & Muslim) 
• “Indeed most people are dragged to Hellfire, solely because of what their tongues have harvested!” Prophet Muhammad (sallallahu alaihi wa sallam).
• “A person might utter a single word by virtue of which Allah will raise his station; or he may utter a single word thanks to which he may be flung right into the middle of Hellfire.” Prophet Muhammad (sallallahu alaihi wa sallam)
• “A believer is not one who is in the habit of cursing, swearing or indulging in foul or lewd talk.” Prophet Muhammad (sallallahu alaihi wa sallam)
• The Prophet (Sal Allaahu Alaiyhi wa Sallam) said: “O ‘Aaishah! Have you ever seen me speaking a bad and dirty language? (Remember that) the worst people in Allah’s sight on the Day of Resurrection will be those whom the people desert or leave in order to save themselves from their dirty language or from their transgression.” (Bukhaari)

So it basically comes down to this: If you call yourself a Muslim, a believer in Allah and the words of Prophet Muhammad (sallalahu alaihi wasallam), then you will undoubtedly, stay away from swearing, cursing and using any kind of obscene filth. 

But I know, most people, at this point, would say to themselves, ''C'mon, it's just an expression! This is just my way of talking!" 

Expression? Think of it sisters and brothers. Aren't there enough of other words in the English vocabulary with which you can express yourself? Or it expression only possible through swearing?

Think of it this way. Did Prophet Muhammad (sallalahu alaihi wasallam) ever use a single word that hurt a person, let alone an animal? Then how do we see it right that we swear at everyone, be it our friend, sister or even our mother? Do you really think it's a respectful thing to do?

You might think that swearing left, right and center is cool and punk, but it's not so. It's just plain disgusting and you're just blind to the number of people you're hurting with your vulgar words. Maybe you wouldn't mind people swearing at you, but I'm sure people may be hurt by your words. 

Words are a mighty weighty thing. Once it's uttered, you're totally under it's control. You can't change it, you can't take it back. The damage has already been done.

Unless you seek forgiveness from Allah, and forgiveness from the people you have hurt with your words. Although seeking Allah's forgiveness is easy, how many of us can trample our ego and approach a person and ask for his/her forgiveness? Well I'm sure most of us would never muster that strength! 

You may call me an old-fashioned, goody-girl for not swearing or using filth, but really I'd rather be old-fashioned than being the 'modernized punk' of today. Alhamdulillah, I've so many ways of expressing myself without having to use obscene language and I'm pretty sure people understand my 'expressions' when I speak in normal, decent words.

So dear sisters and brothers, if you still think that speaking obscenities is alright, then go ahead. Hurt the people around you, displease Allah and make yourself hated and disrespected among people. 

“Whoever believes in Allah and the Last Day, let him speak what is good or remain silent” Prophet Muhammad (sallalahu alaihi wasallam)

HOW TOUGH IS IT TO LOWER OUR GAZES?

Lowering the gaze. Well, it's easier said than done. But Alhamdulillah, there are many people I know who have successfully managed to lower their gazes with the continous Help of Allah (SWT). As for me, I'm trying very hard to lower my gaze as I should, so whatever I'm writing right now is first, a reminder to myself.

I've heard a Hadith that says that Prophet Muhammad (sallalahu alaihi wasallam) once asked the Sahabi what the most precious thing for a woman was. None of the Sahaba replied, but Ali (ral) went home and repeated to the question to Fatimah (ral) to which she replied that the best thing for a woman is that she is neither seen by any non-mahram men nor does she see any non-mahrams. Ali (ral) repeated this answer to Prophet Muhammad (sallalahu alaihi wasallam) and when asked who told Ali (ral) the answer, he replied it was Fatimah (ral). Prophet Muhammad (sallalu alaihi wasallam) then said, "Fatimah bint Muhammad, Fatimah bint Muhammad, Fatimah bint Muhammad. Fathima is really the son of Muhammad".

I know it's tough to lower our gazes, particularly when a good looking man or a pretty girl is right in front of your eyes. But that's what we have to do. And it's not impossible. I've really thought that lowering the gaze, particularly for teenagers is tough, but Masha Allah, my younger sister proved me wrong! I'm extremely proud that she is very, very strict with herself when it comes to lowering her gaze and I pray that Allah gives us the strength to do so.

Now, how to lower our gazes? First, we have to have the firm intention and pray to Allah that He strengthens us. It's a battle against our desires and we're striving against our ownselves solely for the Pleasure of Allah. This, my brothers and sisters, is the greater form of Jihad because this is a battle against yourself, against your desires and against the whispers of Shaytan. It takes huge, huge, courage, but it's possible, provided you have firm Imaan and Taqwa.

Prophet (sallalahu alaihi wasallam) said: “You will never give up something for the sake of Allah, may He be glorified and exalted, but Allah will replace it with something that is better for you than it.” [Narrated by Ahmad]

When you give up doing something that Allah doesn't like solely for His sake, Allah WILL replace it with something much, much better. So just imagine that a really good-looking man/girl walks past you, and you lower your gaze, don't you think Allah will replace your sacrifice for something much better? Who knows, you might end up getting married to someone a hundred times more beautiful than the one you thought was beautiful! Subhanallah! No sacrifice of ours goes wasted. Allah will give us a better compensation.

So next time your tempted to look at a non-mahram, however lovely they may be, lower your gaze. This sacrifice of yours would undoubtedly, give you something much better. Something a lot more worth. Just keep this Hadith Qudsi in your mind when your tempted to see a non-mahram:

"The gaze is a poisonous arrow from among the arrows of Iblis (satan). Whoever protected his heart and gaze from this arrow due to My fear, I will grant him the sweetness of Iman that he will perceive in his heart."

Only you know how tough it is to lower your gaze, but your doing it for Allah right? So take that moment to make Dua to Allah. Put forward that sacrifice you did only for His sake and ask Him for whatever you want. Allah will answer it, no doubts about that!

I'm still striving to lower my gaze and although I may not be as successful in doing this as I wanted to be, I'm trying. And I know that when I try for the sake of Allah, Allah will guide me all along the way, In Sha Allah!

MASHAALLAH, YOU ARE BEAUTIFUL!

How many of us have the habit of comparing ourselves with models and actresses and then end up being depressed with the way we are? I’m sure most of us are. It’s not easy to ignore the slim, beautiful, airbrushed models in glamorous magazines looking stunning with flawless and beautiful skin, and it’s certainly difficult to ignore comparing ourselves with them. But that’s what we have to do. We have to ignore comparing ourselves with them because we’re nothing like them. We are Muslims, and as Muslims, we know that beauty isn’t something that’s just skin-deep; it’s far more than that. And as Muslims, we should also be wise enough to understand that superficial beauty isn’t our aim, and neither is that what Allah looks for. Remember that Allah doesn’t look at our beauty, skin, colour of shape. He only looks into our heart, Imaan and Taqwa. And that’s what we should strive for- to beautify ourselves for our Creator, Allah. Not for people or society.

How many of us spend hours and hours moaning about our skin and our shape? How many of us mourn about our arms being too fat while obviously remaining ignorant and ungrateful for to the fact that Alhamdulillah, we have arms. How many of us thank Allah for our arms, however fat they may be, because it has helped us in innumerable ways. Just because we hate it doesn’t mean we can do without it. 
Then again, our feet. How many of us mourn about our fat and short feet while not realizing that it’s the same feet with which we walk, stand up in prayer to Allah and fall down in Sujood to Him. Are we as grateful for whatever we have as much as we mourn about it? How many of us hate the way we look, the way our mouths are positioned, the way our noses are stubbed, the way our eyes are, the acne we have on our skin, etc, etc, etc. While we are mourning, and even hating ourselves for the way we look, have we ever given a moment of thought to appreciating what we have and saying Alhamdulillah for it?

Allah is beautiful and loves beauty. So should we, but we shouldn’t get obsessed with it. I know of many people who have gone under severe depression just thinking about the few pounds they’ve gained, a few pimples on the faces, etc. In extreme cases, it has even lead to suicide! That’s the fact. It’s all the pressure of the media and the world, where they project the image of the ‘rich and beautiful’ making it seem as though others have absolutely nothing in this world. And it’s sad that the teens of today are falling headlong into that trap. It’s more disappointing to see Muslims falling into this trap when we know that our beauty is only a test from Allah and that our beauty isn’t going to get us anywhere. Only our Imaan and Taqwa will. Beautify your heart and that will naturally reflect on your face. And that kind of beauty is the real beauty. Not the fake beauty plastered on magazines and ads with tons and tons of makeup and enhancements.

We are what we are, and we should be proud of that! And while we are at it, recite this Dua, one our Prophet Muhammad (sallalahu alaihi wasallam) recited regularly, particularly when looking into the mirror:

اللَّهُمَّ أَنْتَ حَسَّنْتَ خَلْقِي فَحَسِّنْ خُلُقِي

Allahumma anta hasanta khalqi fahassin khuluqi

"O Allah, just as you have made my external features beautiful, make my character beautiful as well"

HOW SHOULD WE STAND UP FOR OUR PROPHET'S HONOUR

GREAT HADITH FOR THOSE TEMPTED TO ARGUE

I just read this Hadith, and MashaAllah, it's a real inspiration! Just had to share it!

Abu Hurairah (ral) narrates that a man abused Abu Bakr (ral) while Nabi (sallalahu alaihi wasallam) was sitting. Appreciating (the forbearance and patience of Abu Bakr (ral)), he kept smiling, but when the man went on length and Abu Bakr (ral) replied to some of what he said, Rasoolullah (sallalahu alaikhi wasallam) became angry and left.

Abu Bakr (ral) went after him and said: "Oh Rasoolullah (sallalahu alaihi wasallam)! He was abusing me in your presence but when I replied to some of what he said, you became angry and left. He replied, "There was an Angel with you, replying to him on your behalf but when you replied to him, Shaitan got in and I am not supposed to sit with Shaitan. He then added: "Oh Abu Bakr! There are three things, all of which are true:

1- Anyone who is wronged and he ignores it for the sake of Allah, Allah will help him out and strengthen him.
2- Anyone who begins to give intending thereby to unite ties of relationship, Allah provides for him with much more because of it.
3- Anyone who opens the door of begging, desiring to increase his wealth, Allah increases his scantiness because of it.

(Source: Musnad Ahamed)

Isn't it a wonderful Hadith? Have to have this in mind the next time I'm tempted to argue!

May Allah help everyone reading this to act upon it!

WORLD HIJAB DAY- A SPECIAL MESSAGE

It's good to see a World Hijab Day, and it's good to see so many Muslims (and non-muslims) supporting this day. Although I'd rather there be no single or specific day to support the rights of Hijabi women all around the world, I must say that keeping out at least one day from the calendar for supporting Muslim women's right is to be lauded, particularly with all the hatred and prejudice that we Muslims have to suffer at the hands of Islamaphobes. 

We Muslim women wear the Hijab-both because it's a command and obligation upon us and also because we want to wear it and because we love wearing it. This in itself should be a sufficient reason for the Hijab haters to let us and our Hijab be, but no. They wouldn't rest until they see us taking our Hijabs off. But know this- We Muslim women in the Hijab wouldn't rest until we wear the Hijab without any harassment or abuse. You can try all you can to deprive us of our rights to wear the Hijab but we will not give in. We will fight for our Hijab, our need to wear it and our rights to observe it. Whatever you call our Hijab- be it oppression, subjugation, male-domination or whatever other baseless reasons you put forward to support your blatant attacks on the Hijab, you can never, ever take away our love for the Hijab and our pride in wearing it. 

Dear Hijab haters: It's not the Hijab that has oppressed us- it's your hatred towards it, your efforts in banning it and the abuse we Hijabis have to suffer at the hands of Islamaphobes that has oppressed us. Our Hijab hasn't cut us away from the world, it's you who have. Imposing bans, fines, prison sentences all for the crime of wearing an extra bit of cloth? How can you ever term as something oppression by judging it by merely a cloth on the head? Listen here: We Muslims are NOT oppressed by the Hijab. We are only liberated by it. If you have an ounce of consideration for the rights of women, please let us and our Hijab be.

Dear Hijabis: Be proud of yourself. You're doing what Allah has asked you to do. Don't let those Hijab haters get the better of you. Let them throw whatever insults they want at you- bear it patiently, for Allah with you. Even if the entire nation gets together to harm you with something, they wouldn't be able to do it without the leave of Allah and if Allah wants to protect you, even the whole nation cannot lay so much as a finger on you. You're wearing the Hijab because Allah has asked you to, so Allah WILL protect you from all sides. Have faith in Him. When Allah is with you, no one can harm you. 

So let us all stand together on this day, the World Hijab Day and always to stand up for our Hijab- our obligation, our rights, our liberation and our pride. Let us stand together and show the world that we WANT to wear the Hijab and all the attacks put forward by the Hijab haters is NOT going to deter us from our willingness to do what Allah want us to do. Let's show the world that we are all proud Hijabis and let us stand tall and proud as modest Islamic women fulfilling the command ordained by Allah. Now, go show the world that you are a Hijabi!