BEAUTY STANDARDS OF THE WORLD vs THE BEAUTY STANDARDS OF ISLAM

Beautiful women making the front page of magazines and newspapers splashed with airbrushed models and celebrities. Not to mention, TV and social media platforms buzzing with news of how flawlessly beautiful this celebrity is and how amazingly tanned that celebrity is... Well, this is an everyday happening and people have become obsessed with the beauty standards of this world.

The media have been successful in achieving many things and one of its greatest traps is that it has caused women to succumb to the beauty standards of today. Every young girl who flips through a magazine will find themselves yearning to look as perfect as those airbrushed and photoshopped women and teenage girls in particularly, are willing to go to any length to match up with these beauty standards. This is why we see so many young girls lying in hospital beds as a result of anorexia as they tortured their body into being slim, girls disfiguring their faces to make it look more model-like and in some extreme cases, some women even going to the extent of setting their own beauty standard that is a level ahead. I don't even have to say how disastrous this is and if young girls haven't tried out those, they fall into depression because they can't match the standards the world expects of them.

This is the false facade of all the beauty standards of the media: They take a celebrity or a model, apply tons of makeup on her, erase her 'imperfections' with foundation, give a more alluring lip tone with lipstick, make her eyes look more appealing with layers of eye shadow, make her eyes look rounded and huge with a thick line of eye-liner and fake eyelashes and make her face look slimmer and her cheeks more hollowed with blush and all those other make-up stuff. Then the hair. It's coloured, styled and perfect. Well, you get the picture: they completely erase the imperfections of a woman and paint another 'perfect' reflection of herself through make-up. Then, they do a professional photo-shoot where any further imperfections are erased. And it doesn't end there. Finally, they photoshop that picture, cut off part of the body to make the waist smaller, the hip curvier and the body more toned. Even the hair is volumed up and the cheeks are more hollowed in, the eyes are made to look bigger and the photo undergoes so many enhancing steps where you finally end up with something you totally aren't. After all this, there isn't much left of who you really are.

Why would anyone want to look like someone they know they aren't? Why would they want to erase their identity and their features just so that they reach up to the beauty standards of the world? And where does all this lead to- nothing but self-loathing once you look at yourself with all your make-up removed and you hardly recognize who it is that's staring back at you on the mirror. Women might as well wear a mask when they go out because more or less, this is what make-up does. This is where the beauty standards of this world leads to. A totally different person that you are not and all this just so that people will say you're an attractive women. I mean, where is the self satisfaction? When will these women ever learn to be satisfied with the way they look? And this... is this what the famed 'liberation of women' is about? Being unsatisfied with who you are that you change how you look like? Seriously!

This is where I'm going to talk about the beauty standards of Islam:

"We have certainly created man in the best of stature" - Al Quran 95:4

This is what Islam says. Allah created us in the best form and we are beautiful just the way we are, Alhamdulillah. We don't need make-up or photoshopped pictures of ourselves to know that we're beautiful. Islam teaches us that we are beautiful just the way we are.

In fact, while the beauty standards of the world is that you change yourself to make you look more presentable, Islam forbids us from doing anything that would change the way we look.

“Allaah has cursed the woman who does tattoos and the one who has them done, the woman who plucks eyebrows (al-naamisah) and the one who has it done (al-mutanammisah), and the one who files her teeth for the purpose of beauty, altering the creation of Allaah.”

(Narrated by al-Bukhaari, 5931; Muslim, 2125)

Allaah tells us that the Shaytaan said:

“ ‘and indeed I will order them to change the nature created by Allaah’” [al-Nisa’ 4:119]

Don't fall into the trap of Shaytan sisters. Today, it is so upsetting to see that makeup has almost become an obligatory part of the Hijab for some sisters. Be proud of how Allah has created you. Allah knows that your skin tone, the shape of your eyebrows, your figure, your hair, your eyes and your entire body is the best for you. Why do you want to change it? Learn to be comfortable in your own skin. In your own self. This is the beauty standard Islam teaches us.


"Allahumma anta hasanta khalqi fahassin khuluqi"
O Allah, you have made my body beautiful, so beautify my character too.

"HOW DEATH OPENED MY EYES TO THE TRUTH" - NIQAB STORY

A calamity that brings you closer to Allah is indeed the greatest blessing of all. Allah sends you trials, only to purify you and open up your eyes to the truth. Seek Him and He will guide you to Light

GUEST POST

Assalamu'alaykum,

It was the Summer of 2013, and actually during the blessed month of Ramadhan, when I decided to make the beautiful change in my life - Alhamdulillah.

Until around May 2012, I was never practising. I was the usual teenager - doing whatever pleased me, and never really thought about our true purpose here. Life, for me then, was all about friends, and making the 'most' of life. Little did I know, them 'friends' and the things that I did during then, would turn out to be the biggest regret of my life. 

Although my father was always one to encourage us to read Salah, cover ourselves, and was big on instilling deen into our lives - it did not really affect us. And honestly admitting, we did not follow Islam, TRULY, from the heart, then.

I wore hijab, then, because my dad expected it. No other reason - May Allah (subhanahu wa ta'aala) forgive me. So when I found any slight opportunity to remove it, I ensured that I did. I never wore it, then, for the sake of Allah. 

This was all until, May 2012. Alhamdulillah, that month was the turning point for me.

Sadly, someone I grew up with, passed away from cancer. She was only 19 when she left this dunya and returned to Allah subhanahu wa ta'aala. Her being so young, and also just the shock of the illness she died from - cancer, further overwhelmed me. Until that day, never had I heard of anybody die from an illness like cancer, at such a young age.

(May Allah (subhanahu wa ta'aala) pardon her and grant her the best of Jannah.)

I found myself then thinking, what guarantee do I have that I am not next? If Allah took my soul now, how would I be able to answer Him? Never had I prayed Salah regularly, nor observed hijab properly, and so on. I realized I had so much to answer for. SubhanAllah.

On the very same day she passed away, I remember being seated on the prayer mat, crying my eyes out to the One who created this dunya, to the One who created me. I realized just exactly what I had been ignoring, all this time - the fact that there is no escape from death, regardless of age and place; and that it will most certainly come - no matter what.

I remember reflecting on my past. All the wrong that I had done came pouring into my mind. Astagfirullah. My guilt and fear only increased more. I desperately wanted to undo the past so bad, and kept kicking myself as to why I was the evil person I was.. May Allah subhanahu wa ta'aala forgive all my sins - major and minor.

So from that day, Alhamdulillah, I made a promise that I will never miss my Salah. Everything changed from then. I started to become more attached to the deen and, it actually, became my whole life. Which is how it should be anyway.

Slowly slowly, I started to make small but steady changes in my life, Alhamdulillah. My dress sense eventually changed. I kept thinking to myself, 'if I died right now, in this state, would Allah subhanahu wa ta'aala be pleased with me?' And from thereon, I made the decision to wear the abaya, Alhamdulillah.

As months went by, and my attachment and love for Allah increased, all that mattered to me was Islam. I remember literally looking, walking, talking, sleeping, eating, and always remembering the Most High, the Most Merciful. Coming close to deen was the best thing that ever happened to me.

Anyway, I remember being in a conversation, with a close friend. We were sat discussing the jilbab/abaya, and I think she asked me something like "Would you ever wear the Niqab?" 

I remember myself saying, "I've worn the jilbab, that is enough for me. I will never wear the Niqab." 

(Note, I said this in a sincere and respectful way, not in a mocking manner.)

And then, a few months down the line - the same friend and myself were, again, having another discussion about the Niqab. I mentioned to her, how it is, now, something that I will definitely wear one day. I never said when - but I just knew that it is something I definitely wanted to do in the future, (if Allah willed.)

Subhanallah, I find it beyond amazing how Allah can place noor into your hearts, and completely change your mind, to doing something you said you would never do. Allahu Akbar. He truly is the Turner of hearts. 

As weeks went by, I began thinking more of the Niqab. Also, at that point in my life, I was going through something quite personal and difficult. Through this test, I didn't want my iman to slip. I wanted to it to keep raising. I wanted to do something for the deen, and wanted it to become a means of bringing me closer to Allah subhanahu wa ta'aala.

I then started to ask my best friend about the Niqab, as, she has always worn it from a very young age - Ma sha Allah. I remember her saying people have different opinions about it but nowadays, due to the fitna in society, it has become fardh on us. After hearing that, although I still hadn't made my mind up completely on whether I was going to wear it or not, my heart definitely became more encouraged and opened to the idea - Alhamdulillah. 

Significantly, another incident also contributed towards my decision to wear the Niqab, Alhamdulillah. It was, once, when I went into town during Ramadhan 2013. The stares and dirty looks from men angered me. I always felt guilty and wanted to put an end to these stares. I remember going home, and contemplating on the unfortunate fact of how we are sadly, experiencing mass levels of fitna, today. 

That, then, made me think about how, if I put the Niqab on, it would In sha Allah stop the dirty looks, and serve as a protection from fitna, In sha Allah. 

I also thought about the reward that I would, In sha Allah, get from the Almighty, if I took this step.

I then, also, remember speaking to another friend, who also wears the Niqab Ma sha Allah. 

What she said to me, next, was the turning point SubhanAllah:

"The reason you're thinking of wearing the Niqab, is because Allah wants you to wear it. Good thoughts come from Allah." 

SubhanAllah, when I read that message, I can't even describe the emotions that overtook me. All I knew was that there was no turning back now. I was now a 100% sure on wearing it.

And there we have it. 

31st July 2013 was the day that my Niqab journey began. Alhamdulillah. 

I cannot even begin to put into words what the Niqab has done to my life. Since wearing it, I feel further fearless, empowered, and beautiful! 

Whilst the ignorant mock and laugh at us, I laugh at them. Why? Because they remain heedless of the beauty and power of the Hijab/Niqab. Only those who wear it truly for the sake of Allah will understand exactly just how it liberates and empowers us women! 

For those that see the Niqab as a sign of oppression, in reality, it is YOUR mind that is oppressed. You have cowardly allowed society and media brainwash you.

Whereas, us Muslimahs? We are strong enough to abandon what society, media and people think. We wear the Hijab/Niqab proudly, regardless of what people have to say; and will continue to do so In sha Allah. 

You claim that we're weak beings; but how does that even begin to make sense, when WE are the ones in control of what you see, of us? To me, that's total freedom.

Now remind me again - who are the weak and oppressed?

Note: If you would like to share your Hijab or Niqab stories or experiences, send us an email on niqablovers@gmail.com and share your story to inspire Muslimahs all over!

INTERVIEW: HOW A SISTER DISCOVERED THE BEAUTY OF ISLAM

Assalamu Alaikum Warahmatullahi Wabarakatuhu,

All praise be to Allah for making us interview so many amazing Muslimahs and I know I've said this before, but seriously, all the interviews we've had on the blog has taught us so much. I love listening to reverts describe how they found Islam and Wallahi, I admire their courage and strength so very much. 

Here is an interview we had with a sister. Do make sure you read all the way to end, and particularly the answer she gave to the 7th question.

Jazakallah khair for the amazing interview sister!



1- Tell us your story of how you found Islam

Ever since I was a young teenager I was dissatisfied with the religion in which I was raised. I have been brought up as a Christian, but felt that it was not correct for a variety if reasons. When I was around 13, I began seeking out other religions. Of course my family didn't approve of that, so I stopped my search for several years. When I was about 16 I began researching religions again. After a year of researching Christian sects I started Researching Islam when I was 17. I think part of the reason for my interest in Islam was because of a vacation to Minneapolis, Minnesota. While I was there, I saw many Muslims, including a group of women who were dressed in such a way that you couldn't see even a centimeter of skin, even their eyes were covered. I think my curiosity of those women inspired me to begin studying Islam. I had only read 1 book about Islam when I knew that I wanted to be a Muslim Alhumdulilah.


2- You accepted Islam at a young age. How tough was it for you?

It was difficult because at the time I was not able to tell my family or friends. Alhumdulilah my family didn't eat pork very much, so it was easy to avoid that without any suspicion, and I was able to keep ramadan fasting a secret as well. One of the things that was hardest was dealing with my circle of friends after converting. Alhumdulillah Allah protected me from the party scene and I didn't drink or do drugs, but many of my friends did and I hated hearing them tell stories about things that happened at parties. I slowly stopped talking to them and by the end of high school I was left without any friends.

3- If there is one thing you could tell your 15 year old self, what would that be?

There are so many things I wish I could tell myself. First I would tell myself to study Islam sooner and to be brave and tell my family immediately so that I could practice openly. I would also tell myself to care more about my grades and going to college and to take care of my health. And to be patient regarding marriage.

4- With so much of anti- Islamic talk circulating around the media, how did you feel 
about this when accepting Islam?

At the time there wasn't quite as much anti-Islamic rhetoric, but when I did hear it I thought it couldn't be true. There were so many Muslims in the world, not all of them could be bad. I always preferred to look for the best in people.

5- Women's rights in Islam is probably one of the most distorted misconceptions in Islam. What do you have to say about this?

The misconceptions drive me crazy! I wish that non-Muslims could see how Islam liberates and honors women. Alhumdulilah we are so blessed to be Muslim. We have so many rights that non-Muslim women don't have. For example our rights over our husbands. Non-Muslim women are expected to work and bring home an income as well as being the primary caregiver for her children and household but our husbands take care of us. We can work if we want to and if we do the money is ours to keep. Alhumdulilah I love the rights that Allah has given us.

6- What was your opinion about Muslims before you started researching about Islam?

Before I began researching Islam I really didn't know anything about Islam. I had heard some bad things from the media, but didn't believe those things were true because like I said before, I preferred to think the best of people.

7- How difficult was it right after accepting Islam and how would you advice new Muslims to face this challenge?

For me it was very difficult. I lived in a rural place where I was literally the only Muslim in town. The Muslims in the next town didn't want to associate with me because I was young. It was difficult for me to order Islamic books and materials online since I didn't have a lot of money, and I couldn't find any Islamic books in my library. 

I would advice new Muslims to just be patient and ask Allah to help you. I also would like to advise Muslims to help people who have recently taken shahadah. The ansar opened their homes to the Meccans but today we can't even invite someone to have coffee with us. Some of us can't even make a simple phone call! May Allah forgive us and guide us.

8- You are a Niqabi so was there anything in particular that inspired you to wear it?

Before I became Muslim I had gone to visit relatives in Minneapolis and while I was there I saw a group of 3 women wearing niqab, gloves and even covering their eyes. I was always curious about why they did that, and after becoming Muslim and reading a little bit about hijab I began to admire those women. I decided that they must be so religious and so pious. Now I know that not every niqabi is religious, but back then I was still naive. Anyway, I wanted to be like them. So I studied hijab and niqab and as soon as I told my family that I was Muslim I began wearing the hijab (this was one year after becoming Muslim). A few months later I began wearing niqab part of the time.

9- How do people in your family react to the Niqab/Hijab?

My family thought the hijab was a bit strange at first but alhumdulilah that didn't last for long. They got used to it quickly. They still aren't used to the niqab though, and I'm not sure they ever will be. I have to admit I do sometimes take it off when I go to visit them.

10- Any Niqab or Hijab incident you would like to speak of? 

Alhumdulilah I haven't had too many problems so far. There has only been one incident that really effected me and that was 2 years ago. I had been working in a department store at the time and on this day I was wearing a pink hijab with a white niqab. While I was putting away clothing a woman saw me and screamed because she was so scared of me. That upset me greatly, and I started wanting to remove my niqab. Sadly, shaytaan won and I did take it off for about 2 weeks.

11- A message you would like to tell any non Muslim reading this?

I would suggest that non-Muslims start by reading Ayat al Kursi 

There is no god but He,The Living, the Everlasting,
Slumber seizes Him not, neither sleep,To Him belongs all that is in the heavens and the earth.
Who is there that can intercede with His, except by His leave?
He knows what lies before them and what is after them,
And they comprehend not anything of His Knowledge save as He wills.
His throne comprises the heavens and the earth,The preserving of them fatigues Him not,And He is the All-High, All-Glorious.

and Surah Ikhlas

Say, "He is Allah , [who is] One, Allah , the Eternal Refuge.He neither begets nor is born,Nor is there to Him any equivalent."

12- The greatest lesson Islam has taught you?

I've learned patience and I've learned that I am not in control of everything, Allah is the one who is in control.

13- What do you feel is the most inspirational Quranic verse that truly touched your heart?

There are so many meaningful verses it's tough to choose.

14- Any special Duaa requests?

Please make dua that my family accepts Islam, and that they accept my niqab. Please make dua for my best friend whose family hates her because she became a Muslim, please make dua that her family becomes muslim. Please make dua for me to go to an alim program in Chicago. Please me dua that Allah blesses all the Muslims worldwide.

15- And lastly, how would you describe your life as a Muslim?

Alhumdulilah my life is pretty good. Allah has blessed me.




Note: If you would like to be interviewed for our blog, leave us an email on niqablovers@gmail.com and we'll get back to you, In Sha Allah. Sisters only.

5 THINGS YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT NIQABIS (WITH GIFs)

1- Do you bath with your Niqab? 

No really, we do get this question a lot.

Besides being a major face-palm moment, the answer is no; we have a bath like all human beings do.

Some also assume that Niqabis have the Niqab on all round the clock too. We wear the Niqab only when we’re out of our homes or in the presence of any men other than our immediate family. 

2- Oooooh, here comes a Darthvader! 

Oh, we get that a lot!! From being called Death Eaters, Darth Vader, Ninja, Osama Bin Laden’s wife and in some instances, mothers use our mere presence to try and terrorize their children into submissiveness (poor kids, we love you!) and they expect us to be terrified…

… but we are not. Most of the time, when we do come across such pleasant behaviour, our expressions tend to be more like this:

Try something new people, we are bored!

3-  Niqabis are dominated by their men and live like caveman

Ahhh, the age-old allegation against the Niqab. Everyone “assumes’ that the men in our lives forced the Niqab on us. That the men in our lives dictate how we live, the men in our lives force us to live like slaves, yada, yada, yada…. We even had people asking us if we were using the internet without our fathers knowing! Seriously, people!

And no matter how many time we Niqabis scream ourselves hoarse saying that the Niqab is OUR choice, nothing in our lives is forced on us; we work if we want too, we study is we want too, we choose who we want to get married too, we wear what we want too, people conveniently ignore us and think themselves clever in assuming that we are oppressed and live like the Croods, er, cavemen….And as for us Niqabis not being able to use technology, well, you wouldn’t have all these Niqabi blogs and Twitter accounts if we were not allowed to use technology, right? Honestly, my father has a hard time prying me away from the computer most of time. 

But certain folks go far as to say: “Ah but you are not a woman, you are a maniac man masquerading as a woman and tweeting about the Niqab because you want the women to be subservient to you…”

                                        

Clever, real clever… 

4- Niqabis are restricted, oppressed and are not permitted to have fun

Au Contraire my friend... we do have fun, LOTS of fun! The only thing is we have fun with only those who are close us instead of random people… Our Niqab is and never will be a barrier for us having fun!

5- If you have a question ask. We don't bite! 

Niqabis are very nice people so if you have a doubt about the Niqab or Islam in general, ask us instead of happily assuming. We’ve had a lot of tweets about how people say that Niqabis are unapproachable because we’re covered.  It's just an extra bit of clothing people, I've not built a brick wall around me! Le sigh.....

* This is a guest post from my sister and as a side note, all the GIFs used are not depicting Niqabis in any way, but just used to lighten up the post. (She had a really hard time getting the appropriate GIFs by the way)

HIJAB- MY STEP CLOSER TO ALLAH

GUEST POST

BesmillAllah AlRahman AlRaheem,

Assalamu alikom :)

Hijab was a 'must' for me before all my friends, I was young and knew very little about Islam. The thought of wearing Hijab while ALL the girls I knew at the time weren't, was something I couldn't consider. My younger sister wore Hijab just about two years after that, it wasn't really easy being compared to her, which made me hate the concept of Hijab even more.

At the age of seventeen, summer break, my aunt gave me a book called 'Minaret', author: Leila Aboulela. The only reason I actually read that book was because I had nothing better to do but AlhamdolilAllah I read that book, it made me see Hijab in a whole new perspective. I had only one thing in common with the main character of the book, 'The destructive boyfriend'.

I was dating a Christian guy whom I thought was my prince charming. I loved him blindly. He loved my long hair and skinny jeans and Hijab to him was a punishment from god, IstagfarAllah, he made me believe the same.

My bestfriend on the other hand, supported me 100%. Whenever I backed down on the idea, he kept reminding me that Hijab is one of the greatest ways a Muslim girl can please Allah.

It took months for me to actually get the courage to tell my boyfriend that I wanted to wear Hijab and just as I'd expected his reaction would be, he hated the idea and threatened to leave me.

I started putting my scarf on infront of him, but whenever he asked I'd explain that I'm just trying it on, he'll either ignore what I said or just take it off. I wasn't really into Islam at the time, I had NO clue what to do- it was either lose him or lose my hijab.

I talked to one of my Hijabi friends, who told me that the only way out was to ask Allah for guidance. AlhamdolilAllah I have her in my life to help me in the right way whenever I need her to.

After so much duaa and attending Islamic talks, I finally knew what was the next step in my life.

I broke up with my boyfriend and officially became a hijabi :)

Wearing Hijab makes me feel comfortable, protected and most importantly happy, because I'm doing something for the sake of Allah. It feels like I'm superwoman but instead of wearing a cape on my shoulders, I've got it wrapped around my head.

I always used to tell myself that I need to change and improve my Islam to wear Hijab, but I know now that it's my hijab that changed me, from both the inside and outside.

I've been a hijabi for almost two years now AlhamdolilAllah.

Reaching this stage in my life was something I never would've imagined myself achieving, but with sincere duaa nothing is impossible.

Sisters, remember that this dunya is only a deception. We need to set our priorities straight. Give up this temporary life for Allah's ever lasting Jannah. May we all be from the people of Jannah, Ammeen <3

Note: If you would like to share your Hijab or Niqab stories or experiences, send us an email on niqablovers@gmail.com and share your story to inspire Muslimahs all over!

SURVEY RESULTS: WHAT NON-MUSLIMS SAY ABOUT THE NIQAB

One reason that the Niqab is a hugely misunderstood concept in Islam is because we have not explained it to Non-Muslims correctly. So, we thought of starting a survey collecting the opinions of Non-Muslims regarding what they think of the Niqab and answering the misconceptions, so that hopefully, more people will come to realize that we wear the Niqab for God, not for man, we wear it out of choice, not compulsion and that we find genuine peace and liberation in doing so. Trust me on this, because the moment I started wearing the Niqab, was the moment I found real peace.

So, the survey basically consisted of 3 questions.

1- Niqab is 

• A sign of oppression for women
• A sign of liberation and modesty
• A choice of Muslim women that must be respected
• Other

2- Why do you think so (previous question)
3- What do you think about the rights of women wearing the Niqab.

We opted for a short survey because we obviously wouldn't be able to publish the responses of everyone who participated in it. However, we have compiled all the responses besides one rather insulting comment that is too disrespectful to post. Apologies for that!

We started the survey exactly a week ago, so not for the results of the survey... Well, it was better than we expected! :D (This is the poll results of the opinions of only Non-Muslims)

A very huge Thank You for everyone who participated in the survey. Thank you so much for your time and answers!

So now to the answers on the survey:

___________________________________________________________________

Niqab is:

A choice of Muslim women that must be respected

Why do you think so (previous question)

Because oppression to women are plastic surgeries, eating disorders and a sexualized body that degrades her and transforms her into an object. No one complains against the degrading way in which women appear in advertising but they do when they choose to cover themselves.

What do you think about the rights of women wearing the Niqab?

There are mechanical engineering women that wear niqab. Designers. Doctors. And is their own choice. To work as a professional is a good thing. Makes people focus on their minds and thoughts, and their body and their sexuality belongs to them and under their control. I was born in occident, my whole family is occidental and I feel a tremendous peace when I read muslims thoughts, the role of women, and some verses. It is strange what it is happening to me, but despite I´ve never been outside occident I feel a bond, a call...

- Clara, Interior designer

___________________________________________________________________

Niqab is a:

Sign of oppression for women

Why do you think so (previous question)

It's unfounded in Islam itself as it's banned in Hajj. Women must show their face in Hajj. So it's not about religion but about male domination.

What do you think about the rights of women wearing the Niqab?

Since it's not a religious obligation but a "preference" to some. It should be banned as it's a security risk. Any wanted criminals could wear niqabs and move around freely

-Zico

Our Response: Hajj is the only instance where a woman does not need to wear the Niqab. Besides that, it is very much part of Islam because it was the dress code of the best women- the Ummahatul Mu'mineen also known as the Mother of the Believers. As for the issue of posing a security risk, criminals could move around freely with a medical mask or a helmet too. Doesn't mean that it should be banned. And, for identification purposes for security reasons, it is permissible for a Niqabi to reveal her face.

___________________________________________________________________

Niqab is a:

Sign of oppression for women

Why do you think so (previous question)

It is an outdated religious view that needs updating to modern society views. I don't recall Adam and Eve (eve wearing the niqaab) it objectifies you to your husband and has no place in non Muslim countries where it is deemed rude to not show your face or look into the eyes of people your talking too. Furthermore, in these current times it is scary for non believers to be around and as it is a personal choice for Muslim women, I think they should consider the rest of society in non Muslim countries.

What do you think about the rights of women wearing the Niqab?

I think they are completely the woman's choice but as mentioned above, I believe it's a dangerous tradition that makes many feel separated from the muslim community and it doesn't necessarily affect the Muslim faith to not wear it seen as it is by choice.

- Anonymous

Our Response: Observing religious freedom should be permitted because it is a person's choice and part of who they are. Asking them to give up their religious duties is like asking them to give up who they are. As for the matter of it objectifying you to your husband, Muslim women prefer to reveal their beauty only to the men that matter in their life, and like you said, it's completely a woman's choice, and she deserves the liberty and freedom to do what she wants, regardless of whether people like it or not. Our freedom of choice cannot be compromised just because a select few oppose it.

__________________________________________________________________

Niqab is a:

Sign of oppression for women

Why do you think so (previous question)

Because it is depraving for women in western society who have fought for their right during the course of history to see other women subjugated for the sake of a dogma whether it is forced upon them or not

What do you think about the rights of women wearing the Niqab?

It shouldn't make a difference in rights whether a woman is wearing the Niqab or not, a woman should have the same rights in any case. However in Muslim majority countries it is an ongoing fight for women rights ( Pakistan, Bangladesh, Egypt, etc...) and whether the country is an Islamic state or not should not matter for non-muslims and the law should not be applied to them ( except for the state laws ).

- Armand, Post Producer

Our Response: Each and every woman is an individual who has different opinions and rights. It is true that women have fought for their rights, and Islam does not deprive us of any rights. In fact, being a woman of Islam and being blessed to observe modesty, is a right in itself, because it is what a woman chooses to do. Niqab is not an act of subjugation and neither is it forced upon us. We wear it because we refuse to be subjugated by men and fashion. And we cannot really see how wearing an extra piece of material immediately classes us as 'subjugated' or means that we have been deprived of rights. Ask any Niqabi whether this bit of cloth has hindered her in any way, and the answer will definitely be 'No'. All women deserve to enjoy the same rights, and wearing the Niqab doesn't make any difference in that, just like you have mentioned. In any case, there is no compulsion in Islam. If a woman decides to wear the Niqab she is completely free to do so and if she doesn't want to, no one can force it upon her.

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Niqab is:

A choice of Muslim women that must be respected

Why do you think so (previous question)

The Qu'ran, I think, states that woman should dress modestly but are not forced to wear it.

What do you think about the rights of women wearing the Niqab?

In Islamic countries they have rights however in the west they are deemed fundamental and therefore outcast.

- Will Catterall, Doctor

Our Response: Exactly. The Quran stresses that a woman should dress modesty and it is a command, but as the Quran says, "There is no compulsion in religion". The truth and falsehood are clearly distinguished for us in the Quran, but beyond that, there is no compulsion. As for Niqabis being deemed as fundamental and outcast in the west, isn't it unfair to label a woman as such simply for choosing to observe a higher level of modesty?

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Niqab is a:

Emphasising your piety against 'decadence' of Western dress codes.

Why do you think so (previous question)

We've heard of Muslim men being unable to control their sexual urges. And we think that dressing modestly is a form of apology to those men.

What do you think about the rights of women wearing the Niqab?

I think it should be worn at intervals, perhaps during fasting. But with some concern for non-Muslim women, especially young & vulnerable.

- Anonymous 

Our Response: Wearing the Hijab and Niqab because men cannot control their sexual urges is a huge, huge misconception. First up, we do NOT wear the Niqab because men have forced it upon us or because it's an apology for men who can't control their desires. The assumption that Muslim men can't control their sexual desires is actually baseless. If possible, could be please give us a statistical report or the like which says that Muslim men are unable to control their sexual urges. On the contrary, here's what we found: 

We wear the Niqab because it a form of worship to Allah and it's a sign of our submission to God. Not man. And also, because we choose to show our beauty only to those men that matter in our lives and not to any random man. 

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Niqab is a
Sign of oppression for women

Why do you think so (previous question)
Because I think of myself, that I wouldn´t like to hide my face in sign of shame

What do you think about the rights of women wearing the Niqab?
I believe that some women like to wear the Niqab, but I think some don't and if they could would take it off

- Linda Gonçalves, student

Our Response: We don't wear the Niqab to hide our face in shame. We wear it out of modesty, because in Islam, modesty is a part of faith. Doesn't exposing your body show that you have no shame? Modesty isn't something shameful. In fact, it's nudity that ought to be.

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Niqab is a

A choice of Muslim women that must be respected

Why do you think so (previous question)

I think this because it is morally and legally correct to respect a Muslim woman's choice to wear the niqab if she chooses. 

What do you think about the rights of women wearing the Niqab?

As already stated above ... It is morally and legally correct to respect a Muslim woman's choice to wear the niqab if she chooses. Women in Canada have the rights and freedoms of every Canadian and actual resident in Canada over their own bodies, to religious expression, and so on. This of course includes her choice of attire for religious reasons. Where necessary for verification of identity, such as citizenship ceremonies, driver's licences, passports, etc., a Muslim women's human and Charter rights include being accommodated to reveal her face only to another woman in a private area for this purpose, and wear the niqab during the ceremony in public. Furthermore, this is perfectly acceptable, causes no one any hardship, and easily falls within "Canadian values" (no matter what Jason Kenney thought/thinks). It continues to be an educational process to help Canadians understand that wearing a hijab/niqab/burka does not automatically equal oppression. No doubt in some cases that may perhaps be true; however, it is a false conclusion in a vast majority of cases (at least here in Canada in my experience).

- Valerie Nicholls, Policy Researcher/Writer

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Niqab is a
Choice for Muslim women

Why do you think so (previous question)
If they want to wear a niqab then they should, if they don't want to then they don't have to. Shouldn't be forced. Should be up to the individual.

What do you think about the rights of women wearing the Niqab?
Hmmm I don't know. I think those wearing a niqab have the same rights as those that don't wear it. In the country I stay in, I haven't noticed any discrimination of those wearing the niqab.

- Anonymous

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Niqab is a
A choice of Muslim women that must be respected

Why do you think so (previous question)

People have the right to wear what they like and the government doesn't get the right to police anyone especially women's clothing.

What do you think about the rights of women wearing the Niqab?

I am 100% for it.

- Jocelyn, Student

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Niqab is a

A choice of Muslim women that must be respected

Why do you think so (previous question)

Just as women are allowed to walk around wearing few clothes, I don't see why having women covering up should be looked down upon either. Double standards.

What do you think about the rights of women wearing the Niqab?Women have many rights, and they have the right to cover up if they want to. No force involved they are able to do so as they wish, women have that choice.

- Anonymous

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Niqab is a

Is a garment to conceal the beauty of a person

Why do you think so (previous question)

Because why else would somebody be covered from head to toe. If a woman was as dedicated to Islam as she makes out, these garments wouldn't be needed. Or is it because the men have no control over themselves?

Q3: What do you think about the rights of women wearing the Niqab?

I don't think people should cover their face in public. Whether it's a niqab or a balaclava covering your face is intimidating.

-KB, Office worker

Our Response: One of the reasons we wear the Niqab is to conceal our beauty and because women in Islam are precious and held in high esteem, we prefer to reveal out beauty only for those men that matter on our life and not for any random man. 

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Niqab is a

A choice of Muslim women that must be respected

Why do you think so (previous question)

Clearly, modesty is not offensive.

- Anonymous

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Niqab is a

A sign of liberation and modesty

Why do you think so (previous question)

Living in a world where women are judged based on their looks, I believe niqab liberates women and says to people you know what I can bring more to the table than just my beauty.

What do you think about the rights of women wearing the Niqab?

I think the rights of women to wear the niqab should be respected and everyone should have the right and freedom to practice their religion and choose to wear whatever they want as long as it's not causing any harm.

- Naimo, Student

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Niqab is a

A choice of Muslim women that must be respected

Why do you think so (previous question)

Because Freedom is important!

What do you think about the rights of women wearing the Niqab?

All humans should have equal rights, so one wearing or not wearing the Niqab does not matter!

- Balwinder, Chef

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Niqab is a
Veil to the unseen. Prevention of the influence to men 

Why do you think so (previous question)
I know so. Given the styles for varying ages. It's the unseen that project lust to the human flesh

What do you think about the rights of women wearing the Niqab?
Self loyalty. Did women name the rights

- Glenn Mearns 
Our Response: Unfortunately, this comment was unclear to us so we are unable to respond.

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Niqab is a
A sign of liberation and modesty 

Why do you think so (previous question)
Looking back at the situation of women back then during the Roman empire

What do you think about the rights of women wearing the Niqab?
There's no difference in rights, look at the women of Turkey

- Anonymous

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We also received some responses from Muslims. Originally, this survey was targeted towards non-Muslims, and the poll results mentioned at the start of the survey are the opinions of only non-Muslims, so it's all totally fair. The responses from Muslims are great too, so here they are:

Niqab is:

A choice of Muslim women that must be respected

Why do you think so (previous question)

Because it's not obligatory therefore the person wearing it, has chose to.

What do you think about the rights of women wearing the Niqab?

Should have equal rights to people not wearing the niqab

-Noor, Student

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Niqab is a

A choice of Muslim women that must be respected

Why do you think so (previous question)

It has been obligated for us women to cover ourselves I don't understand how a female could want to stop another from striving to please the Creator. Why do I see so many mothers saying we should ban it in England? It's like they prefer their daughters to be showing skin and going to clubs having boyfriends etc. I am not judging I just don't see that as a respectable way of life. In the niqab, however, sisters can protect their chastity and guard their selves from the evil distractions we are exposed to in this life and especially now. It is totally the opposite of being oppressed - to cover yourself for your Creator :)

What do you think about the rights of women wearing the Niqab?

They should have their rights always upheld and respected and their rights should be made clear to them so they can stand up for themselves in a court of law if needed. I think some people get surprised when they realize a woman in Niqab is so honourable, with niqab you have a barrier between self and dunya (this world) but even some who say they love God still say we should ban niqab in UK because "it could be anyone". Don't claim to love God if you can't love your own sisters (without having to see their faces) for His sake. If people do not understand why a woman would choose to cover herself in this life then seriously they need to broaden their perspective on this.

- Anonymous

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Niqab is a

A sign of liberation and modesty

Why do you think so (previous question)

Women don't need to be gawked at by strangers

What do you think about the rights of women wearing the Niqab?

It is their choice. Why would somebody have a problem not seeing a face of somebody just because they are muslim. They must think Islam is the tight religion but they're just scared.

- Abdirahman Mohamad, Student

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Niqab is a

A sign of liberation and modesty

Why do you think so (previous question)

It gives them a choice to liberate themselves from the clutches of modern civilization, in which women are being and oppressed and has no dignity whatsoever. More over they don't even comprehend this. Their bodies are treated as objects for pleasure and amusement, abused sexually, have to have multiple sex partners to choose a husband. I wonder if it's their liberty or they are being deceived into free prostitution by the male part of the society. Much more.

What do you think about the rights of women wearing the Niqab?

Believe me, they are in control of their lives, they know their rights better than anyone else. You have to have a sincere look in the lives of these sisters, they practice more rights than your so called liberated women. They enjoy more rights, believe me.

- Syed Muhammad Ali Raza Mashhadi

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Niqab is a

A choice of Muslim women that must be respected

Why do you think so (previous question)

Because Allah said there is no compulsion in religion so if a believing woman puts the niqab on I believe it's her understanding of the deen

What do you think about the rights of women wearing the Niqab?

It should not be tampered with

- Aisha Yusuff, Student

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Because some answers were anonymous, we are not totally sure if they are Muslim or not. Nevertheless, we've tried to be as accurate as we can with the poll results. This is the results of the entire survey, with the opinions of both Muslims and non-Muslims:

If anyone would still like to give their opinions, feel free to do so by leaving a comment below and if you would like to ask any questions about the Niqab, Hijab or just about anything about Islam, email us on niqablovers@gmail.com and we'll be glad to answer you.

Once again, thank you so much for everyone who participated in the survey. We really appreciate it! And everyone who says that the Niqab is a choice that must be respected, so much respect for you all! Thank you!