Hijab (veil)

Hijab is a term used in Islam to refer to the headscarf or modest clothing worn by Muslim women. The word "hijab" comes from the Arabic root word "hajaba," which means "to cover" or "to veil." The hijab is a religious and cultural symbol that represents modesty, dignity, and privacy.

In Islam, both men and women are encouraged to dress modestly and maintain their chastity. However, the dress requirements for men and women are different. Men are instructed to dress modestly but are not required to cover their heads or wear specific clothing. Women, on the other hand, are required to cover their hair and wear loose, non-revealing clothing that does not show their body shape.

The hijab is just one form of modest dress for Muslim women. Some women may choose to wear a full face veil (niqab) or a body-covering cloak (abaya) in addition to the headscarf. The specific style of hijab and other forms of modest dress may vary depending on cultural and regional differences.

The wearing of hijab is a personal choice and religious obligation for Muslim women who choose to observe it. The hijab serves as a symbol of religious and cultural identity for Muslim women and helps them to maintain their modesty and dignity.

Importance of Hijab

The importance of Hijab is derived from Islamic teachings and values, which emphasize the concept of modesty and preservation of one's dignity and honor. Here are some reasons why Hijab is considered important in Islam:

1. Fulfilling the commandment of Allah: Hijab is considered a commandment from Allah in the Quran, and fulfilling this commandment is a way of demonstrating obedience to Allah and earning His reward.

2. Protection of women: Hijab is seen as a means of protecting women's dignity, honor, and safety by preventing unwanted attention and harassment from men.

3. Preservation of modesty: Hijab helps to preserve modesty by covering a woman's body and hair, which are considered private and intimate parts of a person.

4. Fostering a sense of community: By adhering to the same dress code, Hijab fosters a sense of community and solidarity among Muslim women, and helps to create a space where women can feel safe and comfortable.

5. Promoting inner beauty: Hijab emphasizes the importance of inner beauty and character, rather than outward appearance, by directing attention away from physical beauty and towards a person's personality, actions, and beliefs.

It's worth noting that while Hijab is an important aspect of Islamic dress code, it is not the only factor in a person's religious practice, and it should not be used to judge a person's level of piety or religiosity.

Any penalties for not wearing Hijab?

In Islamic law, there is no prescribed punishment or penalty for not wearing Hijab. However, it is considered a sin to disregard the obligation of Hijab, and a person who chooses not to wear it may face consequences in the afterlife.

That being said, some Islamic countries and regions may have specific laws or regulations regarding the wearing of Hijab in public places or certain situations. For example, in Iran, it is mandatory for women to wear Hijab in public, and failure to comply can result in legal penalties or social consequences.

It's important to note that wearing Hijab should be a personal choice and not forced upon anyone. Islamic teachings emphasize the importance of free will and choice, and any pressure or coercion to wear Hijab goes against these principles.

According to Quran

The Quran has several verses that mention the importance of modesty and the concept of Hijab, but it does not provide specific details on how women should dress or what kind of head covering they should wear. Here are a few examples of Quranic verses related to the concept of Hijab:

"Say to the believing men that they should lower their gaze and guard their modesty: that will make for greater purity for them: And Allah is well acquainted with all that they do. And say to the believing women that they should lower their gaze and guard their modesty; that they should not display their beauty and ornaments except what (must ordinarily) appear thereof; that they should draw their veils over their bosoms and not display their beauty except to their husbands, their fathers, their husband's fathers, their sons, their husbands' sons, their brothers or their brothers' sons, or their sisters' sons, or their women, or the slaves whom their right hands possess, or male servants free of physical needs, or small children who have no sense of the shame of sex; and that they should not strike their feet in order to draw attention to their hidden ornaments." (Quran 24:30-31)

"O Prophet! Tell thy wives and daughters, and the believing women, that they should cast their outer garments over their persons (when abroad): that is most convenient, that they should be known (as such) and not molested. And Allah is Oft-Forgiving, Most Merciful." (Quran 33:59)

"And when you ask (the Prophet's wives) for anything you want, ask them from behind a screen: that makes for greater purity for your hearts and for theirs." (Quran 33:53)

These verses emphasize the importance of modesty and the need for both men and women to guard their chastity and maintain their dignity. While the Quran does not prescribe a specific dress code for women, it encourages women to dress modestly and cover their bodies in a way that is appropriate for the culture and society they live in. The specific interpretation and application of these verses have been the subject of scholarly debate and may vary depending on cultural and regional differences.

According to Hadith

There are several Hadiths that discuss the concept of Hijab and the importance of modesty for Muslim women. Here are a few examples:

"Aisha (RA) narrated, 'Asmaa, the daughter of Abu Bakr came to the Messenger of Allah (PBUH) while wearing thin clothing. He approached her and said: "O Asmaa! When a girl reaches the menstrual age, it is not proper that anything should remain exposed except this and this" (the Prophet pointed to the face and hands)." (Sunan Abu Dawud, Hadith 4092)

"Narrated Safiya bint Shaiba: 'Aisha used to say: 'When (the Verse): "They should draw their veils over their necks and bosoms," was revealed, (the ladies) cut their waist sheets at the edges and covered their faces with the cut pieces.'" (Sahih Bukhari, Hadith 4481)

"Ibn Abbas (RA) narrated that the Messenger of Allah (PBUH) said: 'I have not left behind me any fitnah more harmful to men than women.'" (Sahih Bukhari, Hadith 5096)

"Abu Dawud narrated from Umm Salamah (RA) that she asked the Prophet (PBUH): 'Can a woman pray in a long shirt (i.e., a dress) and headscarf (i.e., a Hijab) without a cloak?' He said: 'If the shirt is long and flowing and covers the top of her feet.'" (Sunan Abu Dawud, Hadith 640)

"Narrated Umm Atiyyah al-Ansariyyah: The Messenger of Allah (PBUH) said: 'A woman must not fast without her husband's permission if he is present, nor must she allow anyone into his house without his permission.'" (Sunan Abu Dawud, Hadith 2450)

"Narrated Abdullah ibn Umar (RA): The Messenger of Allah (PBUH) said: 'The most beloved people to Allah are those who are most beneficial to people. The most beloved deed to Allah is to make a Muslim happy or to remove his worry, or to fulfill his hunger. That I walk with a brother regarding a need is more beloved to me than that I seclude myself in this mosque in Medina for a month. Whoever swallows his anger, then Allah will conceal his faults. Whoever suppresses his rage, even though he could fulfill his anger if he wished, then Allah will reward him.' " (Sunan Ibn Majah, Hadith 3666)

"Narrated by Ibn Abbas (RA): The Prophet (PBUH) said, 'I have been ordered to fight against the people until they testify that none has the right to be worshipped but Allah, and that Muhammad is the Messenger of Allah, and they establish prayer and pay Zakat. If they do that, their blood and property are guaranteed protection on my behalf except when justified by Islamic law, and their affairs rest with Allah.'" (Sahih Bukhari, Hadith 25)

This Hadith emphasizes the importance of fighting in the cause of Allah to spread the message of Islam and establish the worship of Allah.

"Narrated by Abdullah ibn Umar (RA): The Prophet (PBUH) said: 'Whoever seeks knowledge to argue with the foolish, to attract the attention of people, and to be praised by the scholars, Allah will admit him into Hellfire.'" (Sunan Ibn Majah, Hadith 253)

This Hadith warns against seeking knowledge for the wrong reasons and highlights the importance of seeking knowledge with the intention of benefiting oneself and others.

"Narrated by Abu Hurairah (RA): The Prophet (PBUH) said: 'Allah does not look at your outward appearance or your wealth, but He looks at your hearts and deeds.'" (Sahih Muslim, Hadith 2564)

These Hadiths emphasize the importance of Muslim women covering their bodies and maintaining their modesty. They also highlight the responsibility of men to lower their gaze and not objectify women. The specific interpretation and application of these Hadiths have been the subject of scholarly debate, and there are different views among Islamic scholars regarding the dress code for Muslim women.

Akhlaq (good Character) -for children

Akhlaq (good Character) is an Arabic word that means good manners, character, and behavior. In Islam, Akhlaq is very important because it guides us on how to treat other people and how to live our lives in a way that pleases Allah (God).

For instance, when we greet someone with a smile and a kind word, we are showing good Akhlaq. When we share our toys with our friends or help our parents with household chores, we are also displaying good Akhlaq. It means being kind, honest, and respectful to everyone around us, whether they are our family, friends, or strangers.

Islam teaches us that good Akhlaq is very important because it helps us build strong relationships with others and makes us better human beings. When we are kind to others, we are spreading love and peace, which are very important values in Islam.

In addition, having good Akhlaq helps us earn Allah's blessings and rewards. Allah loves those who are kind, honest, and patient, and He promises to reward them in this life and in the Hereafter.

So, in summary, Akhlaq means having good manners, character, and behavior, and it is very important in Islam. It teaches us to be kind, respectful, and honest to everyone around us, and to spread love and peace wherever we go.

Here are a few examples of Quranic verses and Hadiths that emphasize the importance of Akhlaq:

Quran 68:4: "And verily, you (O Muhammad) are on an exalted standard of character."

This verse highlights the fact that Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) had the best character and behavior, and encourages Muslims to follow his example.

Hadith: "The best among you are those who have the best manners and character." (Sahih Bukhari)

This Hadith teaches us that having good Akhlaq is more important than anything else, and that those who have the best manners and character are the best Muslims.

Quran 49:13: "O mankind, indeed We have created you from male and female and made you peoples and tribes that you may know one another. Indeed, the most noble of you in the sight of Allah is the most righteous of you. Indeed, Allah is Knowing and Acquainted."

This verse teaches us that all people are equal in the sight of Allah, and that the most noble and honorable among us are those who are righteous and have good character.

Hadith: "The most beloved of people to Allah are those who are most beneficial to others." (Sunan Ibn Majah)

This Hadith teaches us that being kind and helpful to others is very important in Islam, and that those who do so are loved by Allah.

Quran 2:195: "And do good; indeed, Allah loves the doers of good."

This verse encourages us to do good deeds and have good character, and reminds us that Allah loves those who do good.

In summary, Islam emphasizes the importance of having good Akhlaq, and provides many examples from the Quran and Hadiths to teach us how to be kind, respectful, honest, and helpful to others. Following these teachings helps us build strong relationships with others, earn Allah's blessings and rewards, and become better human beings.

Akhlaq (good Character)

In Islam, Akhlaq refers to good character or morality. It is an essential aspect of a Muslim's life and is highly emphasized in the Quran and Hadiths (the sayings and actions of the Prophet Muhammad). Good character is a fundamental part of Islamic teachings, and Muslims are encouraged to strive towards developing and maintaining good character in all aspects of their lives.

Some of the virtues of Akhlaq in Islam include:

Honesty: Honesty is a fundamental aspect of Islam. Muslims are taught to be truthful in all their words and actions. They should not lie, cheat, or deceive others, whether in business, personal relationships, or any other aspect of life. The Quran teaches that honesty is the foundation of all human virtues and is essential for a just society.

Respect: Respect for others is another key aspect of Akhlaq in Islam. Muslims are taught to respect their parents, elders, teachers, and those in authority. They should also show kindness and compassion towards all people, regardless of their backgrounds or beliefs. The Prophet Muhammad said, "He is not a believer who eats his fill while his neighbor goes hungry."

Humility: Humility is an essential virtue in Islam. Muslims are encouraged to be humble and not to boast or show off their wealth, knowledge, or accomplishments. They should recognize that all good things come from Allah and that they should be grateful for what they have.

Forgiveness: Forgiveness is an important aspect of Akhlaq in Islam. Muslims are taught to forgive others and to seek forgiveness when they have wronged someone else. The Quran says, "Let them forgive and overlook. Do you not wish that Allah should forgive you? Indeed, Allah is Forgiving and Merciful." (Quran 24:22)

Justice: Justice is a core value in Islam. Muslims are encouraged to be fair and just in all their dealings with others. They should not discriminate or show favoritism, and they should always seek to uphold the rights of the oppressed and marginalized.

Courage: Courage is another essential virtue in Islam. Muslims are taught to be brave and stand up for what is right, even in the face of adversity. The Quran says, "O you who have believed, be persistently standing firm in justice, witnesses for Allah, even if it be against yourselves or parents and relatives." (Quran 4:135)

Patience: Patience is a vital virtue in Islam. Muslims are encouraged to be patient and to persevere in the face of challenges and difficulties. The Quran says, "And be patient, for indeed, Allah does not allow to be lost the reward of those who do good." (Quran 11:115)

Akhlaq (good character) is a crucial aspect of Islamic teachings. It emphasizes the importance of being honest, respectful, humble, forgiving, just, courageous, and patient. Muslims are encouraged to strive towards developing and maintaining good character in all aspects of their lives, as it is considered essential for their spiritual development and well-being.

According to Quran & Hadith

The principles of Akhlaq (good character) are based on the teachings of the Quran, which is the holy scripture of Islam. The Quran contains numerous verses that emphasize the importance of good character and morality.

For example, in Surah Al-Qalam, Verse 4, Allah says, "And indeed, you are of a great moral character." This verse refers to the character of the Prophet Muhammad, who is considered the perfect example of good character in Islam.

In Surah Al-An'am, Verse 152, Allah says, "And do not approach the property of an orphan, except in the way that is best, until he reaches maturity. And fulfill [every] commitment. Indeed, the commitment is ever [that about which one will be] questioned." This verse emphasizes the importance of honesty and fulfilling commitments.

In Surah Al-Maida, Verse 8, Allah says, "O you who have believed, be persistently standing firm in justice, witnesses for Allah, even if it be against yourselves or parents and relatives. Whether one is rich or poor, Allah is more worthy of both. So follow not [personal] inclination, lest you not be just. And if you distort [your testimony] or refuse [to give it], then indeed Allah is ever, with what you do, Acquainted." This verse emphasizes the importance of justice and standing up for what is right, even if it goes against one's personal interests or the interests of one's family.

These are just a few examples of the Quranic teachings on Akhlaq (good character). The Quran encourages Muslims to develop and maintain good character traits and virtues in all aspects of their lives, as it is essential for their spiritual development and well-being.

Here are some examples of the teachings of Akhlaq (good character) in Hadith, which are the sayings and actions of the Prophet Muhammad, may peace be upon him, that provide guidance to Muslims on how to live their lives according to Islamic principles.

Honesty: The Prophet Muhammad, may peace be upon him, said, "Truthfulness leads to righteousness, and righteousness leads to Paradise. A man continues to be truthful until he is recorded as truthful with Allah. And falsehood leads to wickedness and wickedness leads to the Hellfire. A man continues to tell lies until he is recorded as a liar with Allah." (Sahih Bukhari, Book 73, Hadith 116)

Respect: The Prophet Muhammad, may peace be upon him, said, "He who does not show mercy to others, will not be shown mercy." (Sahih Bukhari, Book 73, Hadith 42)

Humility: The Prophet Muhammad, may peace be upon him, said, "Whoever humbles himself for the sake of Allah, Allah will raise him up." (Sahih Muslim, Book 45, Hadith 98)

The Prophet Muhammad, may peace be upon him, said, "The one who is humble for the sake of Allah, Allah will exalt him." (Sunan Abi Dawud, Book 42, Hadith 4883)

Forgiveness: The Prophet Muhammad, may peace be upon him, said, "Allah is kind and loves kindness in all matters." (Sahih Bukhari, Book 73, Hadith 43)

The Prophet Muhammad, may peace be upon him, said, "The strong man is not the one who is good at wrestling, but the strong man is the one who controls himself when he is angry." (Sahih Bukhari, Book 73, Hadith 135)

The Prophet Muhammad, may peace be upon him, said, "Shall I not tell you about something better than charity, fasting, and prayer? It is making peace between people who have quarreled. " (Sunan Abi Dawud, Book 42, Hadith 4919)

Justice: The Prophet Muhammad, may peace be upon him, said, "Do not let your hatred for a people incite you to injustice. Be just, for that is closer to righteousness." (Sahih Bukhari, Book 73, Hadith 4)

The Prophet Muhammad, may peace be upon him, said, "The most beloved people to Allah are those who are most beneficial to people." (Sahih Bukhari, Book 73, Hadith 42)

Courage: The Prophet Muhammad, may peace be upon him, said, "The strongest among you is the one who controls his anger." (Sahih Bukhari, Book 73, Hadith 135)

Patience: The Prophet Muhammad, may peace be upon him, said, "No one has been given a better or more abundant gift than patience." (Sahih Bukhari, Book 73, Hadith 140)

The Prophet Muhammad, may peace be upon him, said, "The strong man is not the one who can wrestle, but the one who can control himself when he is angry." (Sahih Bukhari, Book 73, Hadith 135)

These are just a few examples of the teachings of Akhlaq in Hadith. The Hadith literature is vast and contains many more teachings on good character and morality, all of which emphasize the importance of developing and maintaining good character traits and virtues in all aspects of one's life.

Here are a few more examples of the teachings of Akhlaq (good character) in Hadith with references:

Generosity: The Prophet Muhammad, may peace be upon him, said, "The best charity is that given to a relative who does not like you." (Sahih Bukhari, Book 73, Hadith 15)

The Prophet Muhammad, may peace be upon him, said, "The best charity is that given to a relative who does not like you." (Sunan Ibn Majah, Book 10, Hadith 2318)

Gratitude: The Prophet Muhammad, may peace be upon him, said, "He who does not thank people, does not thank Allah." (Sunan Abi Dawud, Book 42, Hadith 4873)

The Prophet Muhammad, may peace be upon him, said, "He who does not thank people, does not thank Allah." (Sunan Abi Dawud, Book 42, Hadith 4876)

Sincerity: The Prophet Muhammad, may peace be upon him, said, "Actions are judged by their intentions, and each person will be rewarded according to his intention." (Sahih Bukhari, Book 1, Hadith 1)

Compassion: The Prophet Muhammad, may peace be upon him, said, "Allah will not show mercy to him who does not show mercy to others." (Sahih Bukhari, Book 73, Hadith 42)

The Prophet Muhammad, may peace be upon him, said, "Whoever is not kind to others, Allah will not be kind to him." (Sahih Bukhari, Book 73, Hadith 42)

Modesty: The Prophet Muhammad, may peace be upon him, said, "Modesty is part of faith, and faith leads to Paradise." (Sahih Muslim, Book 1, Hadith 56)

The Prophet Muhammad, may peace be upon him, said, "Whoever has humility and modesty, Allah will raise him up." (Sahih Muslim, Book 45, Hadith 102)

Tolerance: The Prophet Muhammad, may peace be upon him, said, "Whoever believes in Allah and the Last Day, let him speak good or remain silent." (Sahih Bukhari, Book 73, Hadith 4)

The Prophet Muhammad, may peace be upon him, said, "He who is not merciful to others, will not be treated with mercy by Allah." (Sahih Bukhari, Book 73, Hadith 42)

The Prophet Muhammad, may peace be upon him, said, "No one has been given a gift better and more comprehensive than patience." (Sahih Bukhari, Book 70, Hadith 548)

These are just a few more examples of the teachings of Akhlaq in Hadith. The Hadith literature is rich in guidance on good character and morality, and emphasizes the importance of developing and maintaining good character traits and virtues in all aspects of one's life.

Kindness: The Prophet Muhammad, may peace be upon him, said, "Allah is kind and loves kindness in all things." (Sahih Bukhari, Book 73, Hadith 43)

Good manners: The Prophet Muhammad, may peace be upon him, said, "The best of you are those who have the best manners and character." (Sahih Bukhari, Book 73, Hadith 56)

The Prophet Muhammad, may peace be upon him, said, "The most perfect believer in faith is the one who is best in moral character." (Sunan Ibn Majah, Book 1, Hadith 4246)

The Prophet Muhammad, may peace be upon him, said, "Modesty is a part of faith." (Sunan Abu Dawud, Book 41, Hadith 5092)

Responsibility: The Prophet Muhammad, may peace be upon him, said, "Everyone is a shepherd, and everyone is responsible for his flock." (Sahih Bukhari, Book 73, Hadith 10)

Honesty: The Prophet Muhammad, may peace be upon him, said, "The signs of a hypocrite are three: when he speaks, he lies; when he makes a promise, he breaks it; and when he is entrusted with something, he betrays the trust." (Sahih Bukhari, Book 73, Hadith 92)

The Prophet Muhammad, may peace be upon him, said, "The signs of a hypocrite are three: when he speaks he lies, when he makes a promise he breaks it, and when he is entrusted he betrays the trust." (Sahih Bukhari, Book 73, Hadith 117)

Respect for elders: The Prophet Muhammad, may peace be upon him, said, "He is not one of us who does not show mercy to the young and respect to the elderly." (Sunan Abi Dawud, Book 41, Hadith 5140)

The Prophet Muhammad, may peace be upon him, said, "He who does not respect the elderly, nor shows mercy to the young, is not one of us." (Sunan At-Tirmidhi, Book 50, Hadith 1915)

These are just a few more examples of the teachings of Akhlaq in Hadith. The Hadith literature is a treasure trove of guidance on good character and morality, and underscores the importance of developing and maintaining good character traits and virtues in all aspects of one's life.

Here are a few more teachings of Akhlaq (good character) in Hadith with references:

Truthfulness: The Prophet Muhammad, may peace be upon him, said, "Truthfulness leads to righteousness, and righteousness leads to Paradise." (Sahih Muslim, Book 1, Hadith 29)

Good communication: The Prophet Muhammad, may peace be upon him, said, "Whoever believes in Allah and the Last Day, let him speak good or remain silent." (Sahih Bukhari, Book 73, Hadith 4)

Mercy: The Prophet Muhammad, may peace be upon him, said, "The merciful are shown mercy by the Most Merciful. Be merciful to those on the earth and the One above the heavens will have mercy upon you." (Sunan Abi Dawud, Book 42, Hadith 4941)

Good treatment of neighbors: The Prophet Muhammad, may peace be upon him, said, "Whoever believes in Allah and the Last Day, let him be kind to his neighbor." (Sahih Bukhari, Book 73, Hadith 44)

These are just a few more examples of the teachings of Akhlaq in Hadith. The Hadith literature provides guidance on good character and morality, and emphasizes the importance of developing and maintaining good character traits and virtues in all aspects of one's life.

Good deeds: The Prophet Muhammad, may peace be upon him, said, "The best actions are those that are consistent, even if they are small." (Sahih Bukhari, Book 76, Hadith 469)

Trustworthiness: The Prophet Muhammad, may peace be upon him, said, "The signs of a believer are five: he fulfills his trusts, he is truthful in speech, he is sincere in his actions, he has mercy on others, and he honors his guests." (Musnad Ahmad, Vol. 1, Hadith 1529)

Piety: The Prophet Muhammad, may peace be upon him, said, "The most beloved of people to Allah are those who are most beneficial to people. The most beloved of deeds to Allah are the most consistent, even if they are small." (Sahih Ibn Hibban, Book 9, Hadith 4064)

These are just a few more examples of the teachings of Akhlaq in Hadith. The Hadith literature provides guidance on good character and morality, and emphasizes the importance of developing and maintaining good character traits and virtues in all aspects of one's life.

Good companionship: The Prophet Muhammad, may peace be upon him, said, "A person is upon the religion of his friends, so let one of you look at whom he befriends." (Sunan Abu Dawud, Book 41, Hadith 4815)

Seeking knowledge: The Prophet Muhammad, may peace be upon him, said, "Seeking knowledge is an obligation upon every Muslim." (Sunan Ibn Majah, Book 1, Hadith 224)

These are just a few more examples of the teachings of Akhlaq in Hadith. The Hadith literature provides guidance on good character and morality, and emphasizes the importance of developing and maintaining good character traits and virtues in all aspects of one's life.