INTERVIEW: FROM ONE SISTER TO ANOTHER

Assalamu Alaikum Warahmatullahi Wabarakatuhu! Alhamdulillah, here we have another lovely interview with so much of inspiration, particularly for the youth of today. May Allah makes everyone reading this benefit from it, In Sha Allah! How would you describe yourself in a few words?

I'm Umm Abdillah, 16 years old. My Parents are from Morocco. I have a mother and sister who wear the Niqab. I'm busy with seeking knowledge about the Deen and memorizing the Quran.

Being a Muslimah is something that is terribly misinterpreted in the world today. How would you explain your life as a Muslim woman? 

Firstly, I'm not oppressed. I'm Alhamdulilah very happy with my life as a Muslimah, seeking knowledge about Deen and wearing the Niqab for Allah. It's a big gift from Allah that He chose you to be a Muslim in a world full of Kufr and corruption. Living for status and wealth isn't life. We are created to worship Allah, and if you do that then you feel free- not when you do the opposite

How old were you when you started wearing the Niqab? 

About 1 month after my 15th birthday, Alhamdulilah.

Any particular reason that inspired you to wear the Niqab? 

Yes. I had contact with sisters who also were young and wore Niqab outside school. So I talked with them and they inspired me. So I decided to buy a Niqab and try to wea it, and Alhamdulilah that Friday I put it on and went to Salaat Jumu'a. A sister who wore Niqab before me also inspired me a lot. Because she was a revert and that's what made me feel ashamed of myself. Barakallahufeeha!

If someone approaches you asking why you wear the Niqab, how would you respond to them? 

I'm convinced about the proofs that Niqab is obligatory. And even if it is Sunnah, you need that hasanaat on the Day of Judgment.

A lot of young Muslimahs nowadays delay wearing the Hijab because they believe that they can wear it once they get older. Any advise for them?

I want to say to them; ''Sisters fear Allah you can be dead earlier than you think. Wollahi if the sisters who died without wearing Hijab in their life could have one chance to live again for 10 minutes then Wollah they would cover themselves up from head to toe.
Sister don't let the day you'll die be the first day you'll be covered.

How different is it wearing the Niqab compared to wearing only the Hijab? 

It's a big difference. With Niqab you feel that you're really covered. When you wear Niqab, you feel sooooo free, because you know Alhamdulilah now I have the correct hijab. And men can't stare at me. And with only hijab you know this is not what Allah wills. And you're scared to die in such a situation. A lot of people don't realize that only a headscarf and a long dress isn't Hijab. And with only Hijab you can still feel man gazing at you.

Allah says: ''This will be more conducive to their being recognized and not annoyed''

So when you wear the full hijab then men will not harm you.

What ways do you think the Muslim youth has been lead astray and how would you say is the best way to get the youth back to Islam? 

Because of the phones, internet and television, the Ummah is lead astray. Because of the forbidden gaze, wasting time, talking to non-mahrams, music, men and woman chatting - wollahi they ruin each other- and looking with jealousy to sisters who uploads a beautiful picture of herself, and they lead brothers also away from the path of Allah. They don't realize that for every man who sees their picture, they bear the sins for that too. Internet is really the Fitnah of this time. It's just so sad. Instead of praying night prayer, they talk on Whatsapp with each other. Instead of reading Quran they talk the whole day with each other. Even in Ramadan. Then they say: "Well I learn a lot of the conversation with the sister.'' Not so much as when you read only 10 minutes Riyaa as- Saliheen. You learn a lot of wrong things from internet. So I really think that this is one of the reasons of the corruption of this time.
Ghair In shaa Allah, We have to do dawah, but Allah turns them back.


Tell us more about your blog 

Eehhm, on my blog you can find Fatawa, pdf Books, Ahadith, and stories. It's also in Dutch because a lot of the people around me don't understand English very well. 
You can find the blog here bintufulaan.wordpress.com

Parting words 

I want to say to sister who wants to and is thinking about wearing Niqab:

Wearing Niqab isn't so hard as you think. When I wore, I thought is this it? THAT what Shaytaan always say to Muslim Woman - ''Niqab is like a mountain that you should drag?'' Na'am, it is hard but when Allah tests you, we will be tested, because "Do the people think that they will be left to say, "We believe" and they will not be tried?" [Quran 29: 2]

But know that when you succeed in the test, Allah will reward you for your sabr. In shaa Allah

Know that it is the Shariah of Allah, if all woman would not be able to cover their face it would not be a rule in Islam.

Jazakallah khair for the interview Ukhty. I pray that everyone reading it benefits from it as much as I did. Alhamdulillah!

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.

NIQAB: A BARRIER FOR DAWAH?

I recently received a mail from a sister asking if wearing the Niqab could be a barrier for giving Dawah. Before answering her question, I ran a quick Google search to see what people had to say about it, and astoundingly, a website on the very first page had an answer I'm sure most Muslims would not agree with. This is what the page had to say:

Question: I feel that the niqab forms a barrier to giving da`wah in the west. Is it better to take off niqab in these western countries if one believes it's Sunnah?

Answer: As salamu `alaykum. I an not a supporter of niqab and find it a complete turn off in terms of communicating with people. To me it says 'Stay Away' - I do not wish to acknowledge or have dialogue with you - please do not invade my space'.

My feeling is that when I awake every day I think to myself what can I do today to address the misunderstandings about Islam - How can I make someone more aware about Islam - what can my presence in this world on this day do to influence someone positively about Islam and I go about my work with the help of Allah. Niqab will not allow me to do this"

It's appalling how this statement can be justified at a time where people interact so much online, and that too particularly over social media. We all know how effective Dawah has been online and how many people have reverted to Islam as a result. Is it always face-to-face interaction online? Of course not. You don't need to look at someone for their words to reach you. Our words, actions, behaviour and attitude are the best Dawah.

As for Niqab and Dawah, I don't agree that it is bad for Dawah. There are a lot of sites online that say it is, but I am firmly against this view. True Dawah is on our attitude and manners and the Niqab is in no way a hindrance for Dawah. 

I'm pretty sure that a lot of sisters thinking of wearing the Niqab but would love to engage in Dawah would search on this topic, and if they do, there is hardly any website that say that the Niqab is not a barrier for Dawah. In fact, I had to go as deep as the 4 page on Google until I found something. 

This is what I found: 

It is claimed that Niqab wearing women work against Da'wah as their "strict" dress scares away potential interested non-Muslims
 

My own limited experience has actually revealed the opposite to be the case. Whereas once most of my non-Muslim friends had no interest in Islam, at least now they wish to know more about our Glorious Faith, and a longtime acquaintances who was once extremely sceptical about all religions, is now preparing for her to take her Shahadah. 

I also trust that, Insh'Allah, you will have to conclude - as I have done - that the Niqab is a vital and spiritually beautiful aspect of the Muslim woman's dress, and that it is in no way a hindrance to the true Da'wah of Islam. 

Subhanallah, I couldn't agree more!

Another very important fact people overlook on the matter of Dawah is that changing the hearts of people are not in our hands. Changing the hearts of people is in the Hands of Allah. Our duty is to convey the message and Allah will do the rest. All the the talk of Niqab being a barrier for Dawah is just an excuse people bring forward to discourage Muslim women from wearing the Niqab.

If anything, when you wear the Niqab, non-Muslims would naturally be curious to know why you wear it. Some of them might even approach you and ask you. This is such an amazing opportunity to teach them about Islam, the rights of women, how precious women are in Islam and how modesty is a branch of our faith. So you see, Niqab is not a barrier for Dawah. It only opens up opportunities for more Dawah.

Here's the thing: We might attempt to give Dawah, but it's Allah who changes the hearts of people. We wear the Niqab for the Sake of Allah and He will use us to bring the hearts of people towards Islam. The Niqab in itself is a form of Dawah and through our wearing the Niqab, we might even inspire non-Niqabi/Hijabi Muslimahs to wear the Niqab/Hijab, In Sha Allah. Subhanallah, how amazing that would be!

Alhamdulillah, I know quite a lot of Muslimah bloggers (and yes- Niqabis) who do some amazingly impressive Dawah, MashaAllah. Is their Niqab a barrier? Of course not!

"Is the Niqab a barrier for Dawah or a means for better Dawah?" Let me know what you think in the comments section below.

INTERVIEW: HOW ACCEPTING ISLAM HAS CHANGED ME

It has been ages since I last updated the blog and with the pre-Ramadhan preparations, I had hardly any time. Anyway, here it is- an interview we had with a revert to Islam on how she found Islam, how her life has changed afterwards, her love for the Niqab and some words of wisdom for Muslimahs in general. Jazakallah khair Ukhty for your time and effort for this interview. May Allah reward you for it!

May Allah make everyone reading this benefit from it, In sha Allah!

How did you find Islam?

Alhamdulillah, Allah subhana wa ta'ala guided me to the right way.
I grew up while my parents never said that there is no god – but also not that there is a god – my fitra wasn't that broken. I always knew that there is a Creator, "God" who knows everything and hears the dua. I prayed to Him, but never was in a religion.
At school we could decide between religions and ethics and I always was interested in religion. Since I was around 14, I started to search for God- in religion.
When I finished my school exams, I was 21 years old and Islam was like my favorite religion with no contradictions but I didn't want to convert to any religion just because I liked it. I wanted to KNOW that I choose the only one religion, which is from God.
One day I was very sad and cried because so many things happened and I wanted to thank God for being there for me but how? I prayed to him like the muslims do with the head on the ground – which I later found out. And then Islam really came into my heart and Allah subhana wa ta'ala gave me signs alhamdulillah.


How difficult was it for you to adjust to being a new muslim?

Actually it wasn't difficult for me, because I didn't had that pressure that many converts have to make everything right and to have to know and to do everything.
I started reading the Quran and the sunnah of our beloved Prophet salalahu alaihi wa salam, and I prayed somehow.
I didn't want to go to lessons in a masjid (after school I moved to Hamburg where many masjids are) because I didn't want to learn something wrong - wanted to know the basics before. After half a year, I get to know some muslims and I went to lessons in 3 different masjids.

What were your greatest challenges after accepting Islam?

I loved the Hijab and I knew that I wanted to wear it some day. When I learned that it is my duty to cover, I did so.
I also haven't got any problems with my family or friends.
What was tough for me was to stop dancing and listening to music. I danced since I was 9 years old and had gigs and so on – and in Hamburg I danced newstyle – my "trainer" was a famous dancer there. But I stopped dancing and some months later I was very proud that I erased every music from my laptop. It was hard – but I was proud to do so for my Rabb.

How do you feel you have changed now?

I'm not hyperactive anymore…. I always had to do sports (next to dancing) to be balanced, but after accepting Islam I calm down – my parents also saw that.
I don't have bad friends anymore – actually it was the first time in my life I really could trust people… my lovely sisters in Islam.
And most importantly – I found Allah and that made me happy and alhamdulillah I changed myself in a better way while following His commands and the example of our beloved Prophet, sallalahu alaihi wa salam.


Tell us about what inspired you to start wearing the Niqab?

I prayed to Allah ta'ala to give me a good spouse and I married alhamdulillah. He travels from time to time fisabilillah and one day I accompanied him. In this time, we tried to practice as much sunnah as we can and I also wore the niqab….. and I fell in love with it.
As non-muslim guys and old men looked at me - when I wore hijab many "brothers" came to me (on the street!) and wanted to marry me or something like that, when I wore the abaya and khimar it was far better – but the non-muslims stared at me.
When I started wearing the niqab it didn't matter who looked, because they can't see me and I felt free the first time. I didn't feel exposed.
For 2 years I wore the Niqab when I went to Friday prayers or to meet sisters to remember Allah ta´ala – and alhamdulillah last year I decided to wear it always.

How do you deal with people who are not supportive of the Niqab?

Well it doesn't bother me if they are non-muslims, but if muslims say something against the niqab I'm always confused… they speak without knowledge about something so special – I mean do they know that they also insult our mothers in Islam?

Well that just shows that they are actually displeased with their own effort for Allah.
May Allah ta´ala give us understanding of His deen and guide us all to Jennah. Amin.

So to answer your question, if the person has a little bit understanding and knowledge I will explain – but mostly I just ignore those words.


A lot of Muslim women struggle to wear the Niqab. Any advice for them?

Yes! In this case (and every other struggle fisabilillah also) Say Alhamdulillah! Because this struggle means Jihad for Allah.
I met women from India and Qatar and they say, that our reward for wearing Niqab in Europe is much more greater! Alhamdulillah.
And to make it easier there is one very successful way: to read everyday Hadith and Quran to strengthen your Iman.
So it becomes easier because you always know you do it for Allah ta'ala and you remind yourself that this life is short and our struggle will be requited.

Words of advice for Muslimahs who don't wear the Hijab?

Please sisters read more about death and live in the grave and hereafter. Just think about what He gives you daily. We are healthy, we live in a peaceful country where we can practice our deen, we've got to eat, we have everything subhanAllah. He takes care of us every second and listens to our problems and hears the duas….. but what do we do?
To wear the hijab is our duty, no matter what everyone else around us thinks – we should worry about what HE thinks.
And we could die in this second – who knows how long our lives will be? And how do you want to stand in front of your Rabb? Your creator? He knows what is in our hearts, and how embarrassing would it be when He looks at you – both knowing that you ignored Him because a handful people who don't really care about you. Our friends are those, who remind us to remember HIM <3

Your favourite verse from the Quran?

SubhanAllah…… that's not easy….. I love reciting Ayatul Kursy because it's a protection against evil and the Shaytan runs away. He annoys me – so I annoy him as well ;)

How do you feel your life has changed after accepting Islam?

Well….. I feel pure, free, balanced, complete… and my life now makes sense… no matter what happens I know it comes from Allah ta'ala and I will be rewarded according to how I react.




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.

MY LIFE: THE BEAUTY AND FREEDOM OF BEING A MUSLIMAH

Being a Muslim woman, or a Muslimah as is known in Arabic, is a blessing God has gifted me without even having asked for it. I know that some people might have mixed ideas about who a Muslim woman really is and I would really like to explain myself and hopefully clear some misconceptions along the way too.

Muslimah literally means “a person who submits to the Will of God”. It might seem like a very ordinary definition for some, but for me, being a Muslimah, the definition runs very deep and it is something I preciously hold on to. I know there is a lot of talk in the media about Muslim women being oppressed, limited and subjugated, but if you really want to know exactly who a Muslimah is, you have to get it answered from a Muslim woman herself.

Being a Muslim, I have a purpose in life, and that is to obey my God. No matter what happens in life, obedience to Allah is my first priority. Everything else is secondary. Some people might say that this thought alone is depressing, but trust me, it’s only when we have a true purpose in life and realize the truth, that everything in life falls into place. I know, according to what the media portrays, a lot of you might wonder that being a Muslim woman is a tedious task, but let me tell you, it isn’t. As a Muslimah, I have my own rights and no- Islam does not deprive us of any rights. One extremely amazing lesson from the Quran is that both, the word “man” and “woman” have appeared in the Quran 23 times. We have equal rights, but our duties and responsibilities are different.

A glimpse into the life of a Muslimah

I’m afraid I don’t have much to elaborate on my daily life as a Muslim woman. Every day is a struggle to come closer to God, and with each passing day, I realize how blessed I am to be a woman of Islam. I pray 5 times a day, recite the Quran and learn more about what I can related to Islam. In short, every day is an opportunity to gain the Pleasure of my God.

I know that some of you might shake your head at this point and say what a dull life I’ve got. Yes, there might not be anything too flashy about it, but I’m grateful for it. I find my peace in my 5-times daily prayers, immeasurable solace in reading the Quran, security in observing my Hijab and Niqab, happiness in my family, freedom is obeying Allah and trust in Allah. Above all, I have been blessed with the gift of being a woman of Islam and I really couldn’t have asked for anything better! As a Muslim, part of my belief is the life in the Hereafter, after death. This life is transient, and it is only a test while the life in the Hereafter is what I strive every day for.

“The abode of the Hereafter-that is truly Life if they only knew” (Al Quran 29:64)

I suppose this article is pointless if I don’t talk about the Hijab or Niqab. Modesty is the best adornment of a woman. The Hijab is an obligation on every Muslim woman, and it is an expression of our love and obedience to Allah. We wear the Hijab because Islam teaches us that women are precious and our beauty is something we only reveal to the people that matter in our life. With the popularity of nudity and semi-nudity of women running rampant today, observing the Hijab is an honour because it preserves my modesty, upholds my dignity and gives me far more freedom than you could ever imagine.

Freedom is something that most people believe Muslim women are deprived of, but for me, true freedom is only attained by obeying Allah. Obedience to God has never oppressed or limited me. It has only set me free.

To sum it all up, Muslim women are given beautiful rights in Islam and our position is spoken highly of in Islam. As a mother, paradise lies beneath her feet. As a daughter, she opens up the doors of paradise for her parents. As a wife, she completes the religion of her husband.

This is who a Muslimah is. This is who I am.



Link to the original article published on ReligioMag: http://religiomag.com/be-my-guest-the-freedom-of-a-muslimah/

INTERVIEW: THE LIFE & FREEDOM OF A NIQABI

Assalamu Alaikum Warahmatullahi Wabarakatuhu!

It's been really amazing to have had the opportunity to interview so many Muslimahs, and Subhanallah, it's all so enlightening. Personally, I've learned so much through all the interviews (and still learning in fact- there's another interview to follow soon, In sha Allah).

So, here's an amazing interview. Do read it and may Allah help all those who are reading to benefit, In sha Allah!

Tell us a little bit about yourself

My name is Kareema Badawi. I am 18, African American/Egyptian, born and raised in Washington, DC. I attend a community college and work in a library in the children's section. I am studying early childhood education with plans to either own my own daycare or teach children somewhere in the world.

Wearing the Hijab to high school/college in a non-Muslim country is always a challenge. How difficult was it for you?

I started wearing Hijab a few weeks after I graduated high school. I did not come from a diverse or open minded school system. Everyone was African American and Christian. My brother and I were always the only Muslims in our schools, and I was the lightest skinned person in school which caused frequent bullying. After prom I realized I needed to gain confidence in my religion and start practicing it correctly because there was more to life than the life I was living. The summer before I began college I started wearing hijab. I was shocked and grateful to Allah that my college had more Muslims than I had ever seen in my living areas and school systems. I assume because my college is in Maryland (in a very diverse part). There were a handful of Muslims out of the whole school but it made me feel comfortable not to be the only Muslim girl like I had been my whole life. It was not difficult because my brother and mother were proud of me and I knew I was doing something to please Allah. I also see how my mom dresses and it was an example for me.

What advice would you give for Muslimahs who give up the Hijab because they feel uncomfortable being the only or one of the few Hijabis in their school?

Advice to hijabis who feel uncomfortable would be that you will honestly get more respect than lose any. Males will not treat you the same and females who act mean towards you because of it were not your true friends. If someone does not respect your Islam then they are not worth your precious time. Also, you never know who you can inspire by wearing hijab :)

How do you deal when people react negatively towards your wearing the Hijab and Niqab?

When people act negatively towards me wearing niqab I show them kindness and try to educate in small ways ;) I understand that non-muslims and muslims have negative views on Niqab and hijab. They may not understand what it is, think it is outdated, think it is extreme, etc.. I feel that I know why I wear it. Sunnah never gets outdated and I am not extreme for trying to please Allah. As long as I'm confident in what I'm doing, that is all that matters to me. I also view it as a dawah and knowledge opportunity. To show people that people who wear niqab are not oppressed, hostile, mean or whatever else they think negatively about Niqabis. That's what really keeps me going.

What inspired you to wear the Niqab?

I don't come from a predominately Muslim family. My mom converted in her 20s. She, my brother and I are the only muslims on her side. My dad's family is Muslim but I do not know them because he left home while we were young and eventually remarried. My mom was a single mother majority of our lives and was busy working a lot to provide for us. So I was not raised with all the Islamic knowledge and surroundings some people may have been exposed to since a young age, SubhanAllah. Because of this, when I began to practice Islam correctly after graduating I tried to research every bit of Islamic knowledge I could. I was thirsty (and still am) for Islamic knowledge and surroundings. 
My friend asked me one day "what do you think of niqab?" This made me think. I did not know anything really about niqab. I researched it and could not stop learning about it for a week straight. What really made me interested was the niqab ban in Britan. I wanted to know why these young females were so serious about wearing niqab. They were young, some in college, unmarried. It's not the criteria most people think of when picturing Niqab. After that, I began to research textual evidence and scholarly opinions on niqab. I was so fascinated by it. I stayed up at night researching it. One morning I woke up and said today is the day. I rushed to the store I get my oils and shea butter from, bought a niqab and went to my class that morning.

How did your family and friends react you you after you started wearing Niqab?

My mother and brother were scared for my safety. My brother was not aware of the textual evidences of it and began to think I was doing something not pertaining to Islam. After I showed him the evidences he became proud of me for doing something many females would not dare to do. My father does not live with us, so when he stopped by one day to see us, he was extremely upset. From that day he continuously harassed me about my decision, made fun of me, inferred that I was becoming a terrorist, etc. I stood firm to my decision and he calmed down a bit. He does not like going places in public with me anymore, he walks a distance. This made me sad. Then I realized, I should not have to flaunt my beauty in order to walk along side my father in public, SubhanAllah. My Christian Aunt is fascinated by it, especially my niqabs with embroidery. She always says how beautiful she thinks it is. My friends are all so supportive of it. Alhumdullillah for righteous friends.

What changes have you seen in yourself after wearing the Niqab?

I see that in myself I watch what I say and do in public a thousand times more than I did before. I do not attract unwanted male attention. I have a very friendly personality that used to cause males to think I was flirting with them. I notice that males do not think I'm flirting with them anymore like they used to and that makes me happy. I notice a humbleness because I am doing something that I sincerely pray Allah is pleased with.

A lot of people believe that wearing the Niqab is tough, particularly in a country where Muslims are at a minority. What is your experience?

I feel that everything in Islam is tough only if you put it in your head to believe it is. I get respect from males, so that's good. They do not look at me as beautiful or someone they want to flirt with. I get a lot of mistreatment from women, majority African American Christian women. But I'm used to it. If I was not muslim I would still get mistreated by them because I am very light skinned. People will always find something to treat you negatively for. It's up to you to surround yourself with people like that or to surround yourself with positive people. I choose to surround myself with positive people.

Many Muslimahs love to wear the Niqab, but the reaction of their friends and family put them off. Any words of advice for them?

My advice to sisters who get negative reactions from family and friends because of their decision to wear niqab is "every storm will pass". Stay firm, have a strong back bone and untouchable confidence in yourself and Islam. I strongly urge that all sisters stay involved in a mosque. Once a week activities have helped me tremendously. My friend began having once a week halaqas. It started small but it has grown into a success this past month, Alhumdullillah. I can honestly say the halaqas have helped all of the sister tremendously. As sisters, we need to be surrounded by the love of genuine sisterhood. Attain as much correct knowledge as possible about Islam so that you know your deen and can justify your actions. Give yourself time to think of every action as "will this benefit me on the day of judgment? Will my creator be pleased with this action?". If the answer is yes, don't let anyone put you down for it. Also, don't be afraid to be a friendly and sociable niqabi ;)

Anything you would like to say to future Niqabis?

Dear future Niqabi, don't be scared. Allah does not give his servants something they can not handle. If your intentions are correct and sincerely for the sake of Allah's pleasure, you will be fine Insha Allah Habibti :)

If there is one verse from the Quran you would like a non Muslim to read, what would it be?

Surah Noor, ayah 35. 

Allah is the Light of the heavens and the earth. The example of His light is like a niche within which is a lamp, the lamp is within glass, the glass as if it were a pearly [white] star lit from [the oil of] a blessed olive tree, neither of the east nor of the west, whose oil would almost glow even if untouched by fire. Light upon light. Allah guides to His light whom He wills. And Allah presents examples for the people, and Allah is Knowing of all things.

This ayah makes me emotional. The subject of guidance makes me so emotional because Allah could have left me astray. In this ayah when it says "light upon light. Allah guides to his light who he wills" it means so much to me. Allah is there, we can repent and change our ways any time. His light is so beautiful, pure and like no other. When a person is following Islam correctly for the sake of Allah you can see the light in that person. Guidance is just so dear to my heart because I don't know what I would be if Allah had not guided me back to His light. When I hear this verse in Arabic I can never abstain from crying. (Yes I'm very emotional lol).

Your message to the world as a Niqabi

Hey world! I do not bite. I am nice, friendly and actually love people! I love learning about people, different cultures, different religions, different ways of life. I am not married (in sha Allah one day I will be). No one in my family suggested or forced me to wear niqab. I do not sit home all day cleaning and cooking. I do not feel oppressed- instead I feel protected from sexual desires. I feel that my personality shines instead of my beautiful face and shapely body. My opinions are heard, not my beauty. I hope that the world can respect all niqabis and understand that every way of life is different. One way of life should not be shunned because of negative views in media or culture. I would hope that the world takes niqabis personal feelings towards niqab into consideration before listening to a different source of information.

*       *       *

May Allah reward you for your time and effort with the interview, Ukhty! May Allah make your words inspire Muslimahs all over the world. Aameen!



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.

INTERVIEW: HOW I FOUND MY FREEDOM THROUGH ISLAM

Assalamu Alaikum Warahmatullahi Wabarakatuhu

I love reading stories about reverts to Islam describing their journey to Islam, and Alhamdulillah, this is such an amazing interview we had with a Muslimah. Do make sure you read it right up to the end, because trust me, it is such an inspirational one. MashaAllah!

So here it is:


TELL US ABOUT YOUR JOURNEY TO ISLAM

I lived a life knowing that God was one and in charge of me. I didn't really understand the significance of Jesus in Christianity. I would pray to God and end with "in Jesus' name" because that was what I was used to. Ironically I chose to get baptised at a young age but my mom prevented me because she wanted us to do it together. I lost that "high". I actually never liked church. My palms would sweat. We only went occasionally. What really got the ball running was when a former boyfriend, who is Catholic, asked me if I pray to God or Jesus, I said so quickly God. That's when I realized my faith didn't align with Christianity. 

So I spent a few years researching religion. I looked into afrocentric philosophy, which explained that the African race were gods and other pro-black blasphemy. I almost annihilated the existence of Jesus from my heart due to research that shows the parallel between what Christianity teaches and greek mythology. Which I later learned was due to Saul (Paul) teaching the gospel of Jesus (pbuh) to the gentiles and mixing their polytheism in it in order to convert them. The son of god and dying for sins is a story once told before, or whatever. But then Islam restored everything. I always admired the modesty and respected how Muslims revered God. I found the religion that only believed in God! So I studied here and there. I knew non-practicing Muslims. I spent 3 years yearning for Allah and trying to answer my fitrah. Ramadan 2012, I learned how to pray and when I moved to Charlotte in October 2012, I took shahadah.


WHAT CHANGES DO YOU SEE IN YOURSELF AFTER ACCEPTING ISLAM?

I have more discipline. Discipline is always something that I’ve admired amongst the Muslims, when I was a non-believer. My reliance on Allah and my understanding of life has become much clearer, which shows in the type of advice that I give to, not only my muslim peers, but to non-muslim peers as well. I have become more understanding; the way that Prophet Muhammad pbuh, gave daw’ah to people- based on their level of intellect- is how I strive to be. I focus more on living for al-akhirah and not so much for this dunya. I once obsessed over materialism, now I obsess over Islam. I choose my peers more wisely and even changed how I socialize with my family— it’s very difficult being the only Muslim in my family.


WHAT INSPIRED YOU TO WEAR THE NIQAB?

During winter break one semester, I took a hijab and wrapped it around my head and my face. At the time I was intrigued by Bedouin ways of wrapping the head and dress. I had even purchased an agal to accessorize my hijab, although I knew that it was an accessory that men wore on top of their headdress—I have long left that phase. I felt an abundance of confidence and beauty with only my eyes showing. The niqab was something I felt I wanted to do. I had not read into the daleel of it being wajib, I just liked it! I also felt it was necessarily. In my society, even the covered women is seen as something exotic, and I wanted to appear unapproachable to the non-Muslim male. It’s been a year as a niqabi and nothing has changed. I just use that opportunity to give daw’ah.


YOU ARE A UNIVERSITY STUDENT WHO WEAR THE NIQAB. HOW DO PEOPLE REACT TO YOUR NIQAB AND HOW DO YOU DEAL WITH ANY NEGATIVITY?

When I first began wearing the niqab to school, my professors said nothing, neither did my classmates until they became confused. When I put the niqab on, it did not permanently stay on. I put it on first to see the reactions of my classmates and instructors. Then I would come to class without it. When a classmate asked me about it, that’s when I made the decision to be consistent. I have yet to face any severe negativity, besides random screams and giggles. A lot of people are familiar with me and they like the sneakers that I wear, so they are more interested in how ‘cool’ I look dressed Islamically and my personality than anything else. I’ve been discriminated against once in public fairly recently, but that only made me stronger bi’idhnillah!


WHAT HAS BEEN/IS YOUR GREATEST CHALLENGE AFTER ACCEPTING ISLAM?

Establishing a balance between being a devout muslim and being with the kuffar. Prophet Muhammad pbuh, said that the Deen of your friend becomes the Deen of you. I strive daily to fight against my own jahiliyah and the jahiliyah of others around me. In the beginning, it would create a divide between my grandmother and I because she could not understand the strict lifestyle that I live. She couldn't understand why I didn't want to go to family gatherings— merely parties. She definitely didn't understand why I wanted to cover. Her argument was that men will be men regardless if I expose or cover. She has a point, but I refuse to accept that in order to uncover. I cover for Allah Azza wa Jal.


NEW REVERTS TO ISLAM MIGHT NOT ALWAYS GET THE SUPPORT OF THEIR FAMILY. HOW WOULD YOU ADVISE NEW MUSLIMS TO COPE WITH THE CHALLENGES THEY FACE RIGHT AFTER ACCEPTING ISLAM?

Understand that once you take the shahadah you have a new family. When I became muslim, my friend’s parents took me under their support. I have no family where I currently live, so I go to jumu’ah with my friend’s family, we eat together and I even have a room at their house. I've gained so much support from the ummah. I know we as reverts want the support from our family. I got everyone’s support except my most beloved—my grandmother. It’s still a constant struggle, but I bear it with patience. We must also realize that our purpose is to please and submit to Allah, so if the whole world is against us, but Allah is with us that should suffice us.

A LOT OF PEOPLE ASSUME THAT ISLAM OPPRESSES WOMEN. WHAT WOULD YOU TELL ON THAT POINT?

Islam definitely does NOT oppress women. It looks out for the better interest of women. Allah made us private and society made us public. Living a life in jahiliyah has helped me to better embrace the lifestyle of a muslim women. I cherish the importance of a wali/guardian when traveling and getting married, I cherish hijab regardless if it’s 100 degrees outside, I cherish staying home unless I have a need to go out, I cherish not touching the opposite gender. There is so much benefit in abiding by the commandments of Allah.


WHAT HAS BEEN THE BEST THING ABOUT WEARING THE NIQAB AND HOW HAS IT HELPED YOU TO ACHIEVE THINGS PEOPLE NORMALLY DON'T THINK NIQABIS ARE CAPABLE OF?

Niqab is my opportunity to give daw’ah. That’s what people start up conversations with me about the most. It’s like people look at me and assume things, and when I open my mouth to speak, their assumptions are thrown out of the window. I've gotten a job, an internship, and leadership positions all as a niqabi. Niqab has helped me to reframe my confidence. Niqab has helped me to live with conviction— I refuse to settle and compromise my values in order to progress in life. I live by the qadr of Allah.


IF A NON-MUSLIM WERE READING THIS, WHAT MESSAGE WOULD YOU GIVE THEM OF ISLAM?

In order to understand Islam you have to come with an open mind and leave your baggage at the door. Be very inquisitive. Islam has answers not only my spiritual questions, but scientific. It’s great to learn about Islam through a Muslim, but also read the Qur’an once or twice. Once just for the vibe and second with critical thinking— when I read a verse and then research its meaning it restores my faith all over again. Also research who Prophet Muhammad is. His story is wonderful, ma sha Allah.

ALL VERSES FROM THE QURAN ARE BEAUTIFUL, BUT WE ALL HAVE THAT SPECIAL FAVOURITE. WHAT'S YOURS?

I would say Surah Al Ikhlas because it is the reason why I converted to Islam. I always believed in the Oneness of Allah. I knew that he was not begotten nor had begotten. 

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

 

THERE ARE LOTS OF PEOPLE OUT THERE WHO ARE INTERESTED IN ISLAM BUT ARE AFRAID OF ACCEPTING IT. ANY ADVICE FOR THEM?

Islam is a religion of truth that impacts the heart. Listen to your heart. Trust in Allah and you’ll prevail!


ANY SPECIAL MESSAGE FOR MUSLIMS?

My beloved brothers and sisters, hold fast to the rope of Allah. Be in constant study of your Deen. This dunya is so trippy, don’t let it lead you astray. Live for al-akhirah and Allah will take care of your dunya. We are Muslims, prescribed for one path— The Straight Path— so don’t divide, but unify. I love you all for the sake of Allah.

PARTING WORDS

I’ve been a Muslim for a year and within this year my life has changed for the better. If all was taken from me and I still had Islam, I’d be pleased. I pray that as time progresses I become more and more submissive to Allah. I pray that Allah continues to guide the believing men and women upon His righteous path, that Allah forgives the sins of the believing men and women, that Allah accepts the ibadat of the believing men and women, that Allah guides our non-Muslim loved ones, that Allah grants us shade on the day of yawmul qiyamah, that Allah protects us from the shaytan and his army, and that we receive our book of deeds in our right hands. Ameen! 

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Jazakallah Khair for the interview Ukhty! May Allah reward you for your time and effort and bless with with all that it good. 

The sister decided to go anonymous for the interview, but do make Duaa for her if you benefited from this interview as much as I did, In Sha Allah.

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.

AWESOME NEW NIQAB WEBSITE AND INTERVIEW

Assalamu Alaikum Warahmatullahi Wabarakatuhu!

Alhamdulillah, there is a lovely new website dedicated to inspire Muslimahs towards the Niqab and please do check it out. They have some really inspirational stories and some entertaining interviews. And finally, let your friends and family know about this website and help spread the word. May Allah accept it from us! This is the link to the website:
www.niqabie.com

I was interviewed for their website too, and here is the interview:

Assalam alaykum warahmatullah sis, how would you describe yourself in three words?

Walaykum salam warahmatullah, I hope you don't mind if I skip this question sis! It's a bit tough to describe myself... So sorry :(

So when did you start wearing the niqab?

I started wearing the Niqab when I was thirteen, Alhamdulillah. A lot of people think it's too young an age to start the Niqab, but I wouldn't have it any other way. :)

Why did you decide to wear the niqab?

My mother and older sisters were already wearing the Niqab before I started, so I guess it was only kind of natural for me to follow in their footsteps. I've always loved the Niqab and I knew that I had to wear it. Even before I started wearing it, I used to try on my mother's Niqab and see how it looked on me. In all honesty, nothing actually inspired me to wear the Niqab. I just felt that it was something I had to do. And no- I wasn't forced to wear the Niqab by anyone. Wearing the Niqab was entirely my choice and I'm immensely grateful for it, Alhamdulillah!I have been wearing the Niqab for many years now, and every time I go out wearing it, it makes me realize what a great blessing it is. I may have started wearing the Niqab for a few reasons, but over the years, I've come to realize that it's really a prestige to be emulating the Ummahatul Mu'mineen and the daughters of Prophet Muhammad Sallalahu Alaihi Wasallam in the way they dressed. It's really an honour!

How was it at first?

I'll be frank- the Niqab was pretty tough at first. I found it a little bit uncomfortable but when we do something for the Sake of Allah, we have to sacrifice something and although those first few outings with the Niqab were a little difficult, I've gotten used to it now and honestly, I've becomes extremely comfortable with it. It was a blissful kind of difficulty though. I know, some of you might wonder how, but it's kind of like fasting- it is difficult, but there's a beautiful sense of satisfaction and peace in fasting for the Sake of Allah. That's exactly how the Niqab is for me. The Niqab has becomes a part of me and I'd really feel incomplete if I had to go out without it.

Have you ever taken it off and if yes why?

I have- during visits to the doctor. Thankfully, I don't go to the doctors that often, so the times I've removed the Niqab are really rare. And most doctors in my country respect the Niqab, so they don't ask me to remove it all the time unless of course, it's really necessary. Alhamdulillah!

What did your family think of the niqab?

My family were very happy with my wearing the Niqab. Like I mentioned, my mother and older sisters were Niqabis before, so my family was really supportive of the Niqab. I have a few cousins and an aunty who still think I'm too young to be wearing the Niqab, but in general, I had no problems with my family about the Niqab :)

What do hubby and baby if applicable think of your niqab?

Hmm, I'm not married so I'm not entirely sure! But usually, husbands are meant to be supportive of his wife's wearing the Niqab. It's something he should actually be happy about because his wife is covering up her beauty so only those men that matter in her life can look at her. I know a lot of girls who worry that wearing the Niqab can make it difficult when looking for marriage proposals because not all men agree with the Niqab. Personally, I think that that by wearing the Niqab you are ensured that you get only the best and most suitable spouse In Sha Allah.

What's your motivation?

There's a lot, honestly :) For one, if you do something expecting to earn the Pleasure of Allah alone, He will reward you abundantly, so that's probably my greatest motivation. Besides, wearing the Niqab helps in making you come closer to Allah, because we have chosen to please Him above pleasing anyone else, including ourselves, so hopefully my Niqab would be the cause of my attaining closeness to Allah. In Sha Allah :) With so much of corruption in the world now, where women are being exploited shamelessly, it takes strength to go beyond the norm and turn away from the lure of the fashion world, but when you wear the Niqab, it becomes a lot easier to stick to pleasing Allah. People might say that the Niqab is just an outward thing, but Wallahi, it really helps in choosing right from wrong and re-connecting with Allah in a beautiful way.

How do you deal with drama or negativity towards the niqab?

At first, when I got any insults by people because of the Niqab, I used to get really hurt and offended. But now, I generally ignore all the hate and keep reminding myself that I'm wearing the Niqab for Allah, so nothing anyone says can affect me. After all, all that matters at the end of the day is Allah's Pleasure. The advise I give to Niqabis who have to endure taunts and insults because of their wearing the Niqab is to just ignore the haters and pray that Allah inspires their hearts to the beauty of modesty one day as well. How we deal with all the negativity can really reflect on our religion, so silence is the best response.

Funniest niqab memory

This is a tough one! There is no funny Niqab memory for me, unless you count slopping ice-cream all over my Niqab or trying to drink something while travelling and flopping the entire drink all over me. I wouldn't call that a funny Niqab memory, but it certainly would have been funny for the people to see an ice-cream or food-stained Niqabi! :D