Is hijab a must for a Muslim woman ?

[Marta]

Assalamu alaikum!

I'm very interested in Islam but there are still loads of things I have to learn...therefore I would like to ask you a question - do Muslim women really have to wear hijab ? I know quite a few women that are Muslims but don't wear it. I've been reading few articles written by Islam experts where it was stated that Quran itself does't suggest wearing a veil, it only talks about dressing modestly with out specifing a gartment that should be worn.
And what about secular countries where number of Muslims is really high but which don't follow Szaria? ( Indonesia, Bangladesh, India, Turkey) People from there are Muslims, but not all of them ( Im still talking about women, ofcourse) wear hijab.

I would be grateful if you could explain it for me!

Marta

 

[Aapa]

Marta,

I am not a scholor but if we look at a historical perspective it may help. Prior to the 80's hijab was not vogue in many countries. In a sense women we were still dominated by western influences. The Muslim world was expermenting in a post colonial era. The influence of the French and the British was very strong. Many educated women found themselves in the fashionable Swiss finishing schools.
The political ideologies of socialism and captialism were the main economic forces. When socialism failed in the late
80's, Muslims realized that the world of capitalism was not for them. Many returned to the source of economic and social systems found in Islam thereby we had an Islamic revival. As rhe women's liberation movement failed Muslim women returned to the liberation found in Islam and the sharia.
It is written that there is no compulsion in religion. You do not have to wear a hijab. You wear it because you want to excell in the virtues of your faith. You don it because it pleasing to Allah. Your wear a hijab to raise your personhood, you are no longer an object of beauty...your object is to serve Beauty.
Sprituality is a process. The stronger your sprit becomes the easier it is to submit to the rules of faith.
On a simpler level you never have a bad hair day; people respect you, doors open for you, and the Path becomes wider.

 

[proud muslim]

RE:Is hijab a must on muslim women?

Assalamu alaikum warahmato Allah wabarakatuh,

dear sister i'll quote for u one of the answers of ur question from one islamic site..

Q. What are the requirements for Muslim women's dress?

A: Rules regarding Muslim women's (and men's) attire are derived from
the Quran, Islam's revealed text, and the traditions (hadith) of the
Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him). In the Quran, God states: "Say to
the believing men that they should lower their gaze and guard their
modesty...And say to the believing women that they should lower their
gaze and guard their modesty; that they should not display their beauty
and adornments 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...(a list of exceptions)"
[Chapter 24, verses 30-31] Also, "O Prophet! Tell thy wives and
daughters, and the believing women, that they should cast their outer
garments over their persons...that they should be known and not
molested." [Chapter 33, verse 59]

In one tradition, the Prophet Muhammad is quoted as saying: "...If the
woman reaches the age of puberty, no part of her body should be seen but
this --- and he pointed to his face and hands."

From these and other references, the vast majority of Muslim scholars
and jurists, past and present, have determined the minimum requirements
for Muslim women's dress: 1) Clothing must cover the entire body, with
the exception of the face and the hands. 2) The attire should not be
form fitting, sheer or so eye-catching as to attract undue attention or reveal the shape of the body.

There are similar, yet less obvious requirements for a Muslim male's
attire. 1) A Muslim man must always be covered from the navel to the knees. 2) A Muslim man should similarly not wear tight, sheer, revealing, or eye-catching clothing. In addition, a Muslim man is
prohibited from wearing silk clothing (except for medical reasons) or
gold jewelry. A Muslim woman may wear silk or gold.

(References: "The Muslim Woman's Dress," Dr. Jamal Badawi, Ta-Ha
Publishers; "Hijab in Islam," Maulana Wahiduddin Khan, Al-Risala Books;
"The Islamic Ruling Regarding Women's Dress," Abu Bilal Mustafa
Al-Kanadi, Abul-Qasim Publishing; "Islamic Dress," Muslim Women of
Minnesota; "Your Hijab and U.S. Law," North American Council for MuslimWomen)

Q Does Islamic dress imply that women are submissive or inferior to men?

A: Islamic dress is one of many rights granted to Islamic women. Modest
clothing is worn in obedience to God and has nothing to do with
submissiveness to men. Muslim men and women have similar rights and
obligations and both submit to God.


Q. But aren't there Muslim women who do not wear Islamic Dress, or hijab?

A: Some Muslim women choose not to wear hijab. Some may want to wear it
but believe they cannot get a job wearing a head scarf. Others may not
be aware of the requirement or are under the mistaken impression that
wearing hijab is an indication of inferior status.

http://www.jamiat.org.za/women/concept_of_hijab.htm

i hope this was useful to u

peace be with u

 

[Marta]

:salam2:

thank you very mch for your answers...

Taking into consideration there is no compulsion in religion, women don't have to wear a hijab, am I right ? Just making sure I got things right



Marta

 

[Abu Sarah]

Hello ,Marta

There can be no doubt that Allaah only enjoins that in which there is wisdom, but in some cases the wisdom behind some rulings may be hidden from people, and in some cases it may be quite obvious – such as the prohibition on alcohol which clouds the mind and hinders people from the remembrance of Allaah and from prayer [cf. al-Maa'idah 5:91].

The wisdom behind the prescription of hijab is one of the most clear, because it is a covering for woman and guards their chastity, and it prevents the foolish from making approaches and harassing them. How often has a woman’s hijab prevented the devils among mankind from harrassing her? How often have unveiled women made a display of their beauty and charms, which has led to their being harrassed by the foolish? Concerning this, Allaah says (interpretation of the meaning):

“O Prophet! Tell your wives and your daughters and the women of the believers to draw their cloaks (veils) all over their bodies (i.e. screen themselves completely except the eyes or one eye to see the way). That will be better, that they should be known (as free respectable women) so as not to be annoyed. And Allaah is Ever Oft‑Forgiving, Most Merciful”

[al-Ahzaab 33:59]

This verse gives the complete answer to your question, because Allaah mentions here the command to His Messenger (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) to tell his wives and daughters and the believing women to wear hijab, and it mentions the wisdom behind that, which is so that they may be protected and not exposed to annoyance.

When women go out showing most of their bodies – as the questioner mentions – this is one of the greatest causes of crime and corruption of men’s morals, and of the spread of immorality. It is also degrading for woman, as we see women becoming cheap products for business-owners and advertisers, who show woman half-naked and devoid of modesty in order to attract customers and market their products.

A woman’s body belongs to her and is not to be shared with people. When she gets married it belongs to her husband and she should not let anyone else have a share in it. What does a woman want when she shows her body and exposes her charms to onlookers? Does she just want them to look and stare, and what is the affect of that on rapists and the foolish? How are you going to stop them from getting what they want by attacking you and trying to rape you. Are you going to show some meat to the hungry and then try to stop them from eating it?

In a modern study it was shown that:

65% of female workers are exposed to sexual harassment in their place of work in some European countries.

18% of women in America have been raped or been subjected to attempted rape at some stage in their lives.

More than half of victims were under the age of 17.

Kitaab Ihsaa’aat, Diraasaat, Arqaam (p. 140).

Islamic sharee’ah brought that which is best for men and for women, and for the family and society. It does not impose restrictions on women as some enemies of Islam claim. Islam allows women to work, seek knowledge, engage in business, testify in court, uphold the ties of kinship, visit the sick, and so on, but it has set limits regarding her going out in order to protect her and to prevent the foolish from harassing her.

Many western women, when they think about it and come to know the reality of Allaah’s laws concerning women, do not hesitate to declare their Islam and enter into the religion of the Prophets and the righteous.

In Islam, women are protected and looked after. That is not in return for her staying in the home only, rather that is because she plays a great role, which is taking care of her husband and raising and caring for children. This is an important role, because the soundness or corruption of society depends on the extent to which mothers are successful in their raising and teaching of their children.

One of the largest British insurance companies carried out a study on one million housewives, which produced amazing results. This study showed that the average full-time housewife spends 19 hours per day meeting the needs of her family, because she is the one who is raising the children, teaching them, looking after family members when they fall sick, and is responsible for the household budget.

In addition to that – looking at what the houswife’s value from a purely materialistic point of view, far removed from any emotional criteria – a woman who stays at home is the most valuable thing the family can have.

Op. cit., p. 118, 119

It has become clear to many wise women the serious danger posed by the false freedom that they are enjoying and they have finally realized where this path will lead them. It is stated in another study that:

80% of American women think that the freedom that women have gained in the last 30 years is the reason for the promiscuity and violence that are prevalent nowadays.

75% feel worried about the loss of values and the disintegration of the family.

80% have great difficulty in combining their responsibilities at work with their responsibilities towards their husbands and children.

87% said that if the clock was turned back they would consider the demands for equality as a social conspiracy against the United States and they would resist those who raise the banner of equality.

op. cit., p. 147

All it needs is for you to think about the matter a little, and look at real life, and you will see that hijab spares women from evil, harm and crimes. Islam has closed the door to such evils with its laws, including the requirement for women past the age of puberty to wear hijab.

Finally : Entering Islam, which Allaah wants for all people, is a great honour of which you may be deprived if you delay and death then overtakes you. So hasten to enter Islam, with submission to the will of Allaah, with eagerness and delighting in this blessing of Allaah.

You should note that if you fall short in your observance of hijab because your human weakness or you feel embarrassed in front of your people, this is regarded as a sin. That should not prevent you from doing the great good deed which will lead you to Paradise and save you from Hell, namely embracing Islam. You should also note that the Shaytaan (Satan) is the enemy of all the sons of Adam, and he is the one who is stirring up these doubts in order to prevent you from entering this religion, so that he can increase the number of those who will follow him to Hell. So be strong and courageous in making the decision that will lead to eternal happiness, by Allaah’s leave. We ask Allaah to help you and to give you the will power to enter Islam as our sister in Islam, and to share this blessing.

And Allaah is the Guide to the Straight path.

peace,

islamicfajr

 

[lazim]

Dear sister,

I think you have misunderstood, it IS a requirement to wear the hijab, we are required to cover everything except for our hands and face. This means that our hair must be covered therefore we need to wear the hijab.

Masalam

 

[kayleigh]

:salam2:

thank you very mch for your answers...

Taking into consideration there is no compulsion in religion, women don't have to wear a hijab, am I right ? Just making sure I got things right



Marta

It's a requirement - a religious duty, but no one can physically force her to do it. That doesn't mean it can be ignored. A Muslim woman must wear hijab. Just because many Muslim women don't doesn't mean that it's OK to go without.

 

[PaxVobiscum]

Assalamo Alaiukum Sister,

It is indeed heartening to hear that you are interested in Islam. You seem to be concerned with the compulsion of hijab in Islam. Let me try to explain some things in the order of importance:

1. Tawheed is the first and foremost thing. Belief in one God, Allah, and His messenger Muhammad (saw) puts you inside the folds of Islam and is the single most beautiful thing that can happen to a human being. So please, if your heart is satisfied on these then do not hesistate to pronounce so (even if you are not entirely comfortable with some other details of the Islamic way of life)

2. We, as muslims, believe that Islam is a complete code of life. This code is outlined in the Quran and Hadeeth (and explained, in the light of these two, by the scholars). The general consensus is that Hijab is must for a Muslim woman as also quoted by "Proud Muslim" in a previous message. (some more discussion: http://www.islamonline.net/servlet/...h-AAbout_Islam/AskAboutIslamE/AskAboutIslamE).

3. This does not mean that you do not have any room to gradually adapt to it. The following was pointed out by a convert sister about the steps that need to be considered:

"Many well-meaning brothers and sisters enthusiastically point out ayat from the Qur'an and Ahadith that reveal the Islamic injunction to cover our bodies so that the maximum that may be seen are our hands and face, expecting us to just as enthusiastically accept and begin obeying this injunction. Perhaps we are convinced of the moral, social and many other benefits of hijab, and maybe even begin to desire to cover ourselves, but it is almost never that easy. There can be many consequences that come out of Islamic covering that, although they should in most cases not be used as excuses not to cover, must be considered frankly and seriously before beginning to wear hijab full-time" she goes on to explain the steps and then conludes with:

"Hijab opens so many more doors than it closes, spiritually and socially. It is unfortunate that there are so many obstacles to our finding this joy and fulfillment, but our best course of actions is to be aware of them, deal with them, and continue this form of jihad (struggle) in the way of Allah. Insha'Allah we will all receive great blessings and heightened spiritual benefits from our efforts to obey His wise commands, and never forget, no matter how difficult it is, that Allah never puts burdens on us that we cannot bear, and the more we persevere, the more blessings we receive, insha'Allah. Whatever point you are at in your spiritual growth, remember that Allah knows what is in your heart and will not expect more of you than you are ready for. So keep preparing yourself, so that when your time comes, you will be a strong, glowing vision of a person thoroughly committed to submitting herself to Allah, and proud of it!" (from: http://www.jannah.org/sisters/hijabthink.html)

I relate this in order to clarify to you that many converts have gone through the gradual process successfully and there is absolutely no need to be scared of (or too much worried about) hijab at this stage.

May Allah guide us all to the right path.
you brother

 

[Marta]

:salam2:

Thank you once again for your comments!! Really appriciate your help!
It's much more clear for me now


Marta

 

[Mabsoot]

Hi,

Yes Hijab is obligatory for Muslim women,

however, I suggest that you not being ready to wear the hijab not stop you from becoming a Muslim.

A person who is a Muslim is someone who believes in the Shahada, i.e. testifies that there is no deity worthy of worship except Allah and testify that Muhammad is his last and final Messenger .

Then after the Shahada, (which makes a person Muslim) .... there is the Salah, which is the obligatory prayer, then the Fasting in Ramadan, the Giving of charity (if one is financially able to) and the Hajj pilgrimage (again if one is able to).

So, my question to you is, do you believe in Allah as the sole Creator and Lord of all that exists, and in his Messenger Muhammad ?

there are some good articles here:

Fundamental Beliefs in Islam Tawheed and Aqeedah

Introductory Articles About Islam

Once you are a Muslim and are worshipping Allah properly, you will find things a lot easier. THings do come in gradual process.

Sometimes, non-Muslims will see a Muslim praying or fasting as a chore, this is because they are not Muslims and have not experienced the love and joy we have for worshipping Allah and following Islam. These actions are linked to our level of Faith, and inshaAllah it will increase. Likewise for things like Hijab etc.

 

[MubarekMuslimah]

good answer bro Mabsoot - valuable point.

 

[TheHumbleWun]

Hi Marta,

This is also FYI,

Both Muslim men and women has a responsibility to dress modest. It does not work one way.

For instance the Muslim men are suppose to grow their beards, not wear gold, not wear silk, etc.

 

[Doris]

Bismilah,

There is no doubt that Hijab for the Muslim women is an OBLIGATION the way beard is for the men and usually they go together. For the new ladies who are working on thier faith and knowledge approach only the books of the famous scholars who are known among people for good. Meanwhile stay away from the muslims who try to make things unreal. And who ever told you that in the noble qur'an does not exist any verse concerning Hijab's obligation this individual must of the two 1) Ignorant and needs to study further this deen. 2) if he/she knew the obligation but they were not honest , then understand that these individuals fall under the category of human-devils.

"He who does not know evil will fall into it." Umar the companion of the Prophet alayhee salam.

 

[Bluegazer]

Hello Marta,


I think my brothers and sisters in Islam have made it very clear to you that hijab is an obligation for the Muslim woman.


I'd also like to elaborate more on a very important point which has already been mentioned in this thread.


If you decide to revert to Islam [and I ask Allah the Almighty to guide you to this religion] and -God forbid- you do not wear the hijab, that makes you a sinning Muslim. This means that a Muslim woman who believes the hijab is an obligation but still does not wear it is a sinner.


However, you have to remember that a sinning Muslim is still a Muslim and is not like the unbeliever [i.e. non Muslim]. The greatest sin -which God Almighty will not forgive and will punish with eternity in Hell- is when someone receives the message of Islam in a true and undistorted way and after that insists on not embracing Islam and dies in that state of disbelief.


A Muslim who sins and does not repent from his sin before his death will be judged by God Almighty. He may forgive him, and He may punish him. If God Almighty does punish him, it will not be forever. In the end the Muslim will enter Paradise.


The following is the religious opinion [fatwa] of Sheikh Muhammed Salih Al-Munajjid. It's his answer to question no. 22467 [Purification of the sinners]. I know it's quite a long answer, but it's well worth reading.

Question:
I've heard that, after the judgement day the moslem, excluded the syahid and moslem who were guaranted by Allah to go to heaven, before they go to the heaven they would be cleaned. I mean, they would go to hell first then after they have been cleaned up they would go to heaven.Is it true?.

Answer:
Praise be to Allaah.

Firstly:

Perhaps the questioner is referring to the verse in which Allaah says (interpretation of the meaning):

“There is not one of you but will pass over it (Hell); this is with your Lord, a Decree which must be accomplished.

Then We shall save those who use to fear Allaah and were dutiful to Him. And We shall leave the Zaalimoon (polytheists and wrongdoers) therein (humbled) to their knees (in Hell)”

[Maryam 19:71-72]

This is addressed to all of mankind, righteous and immoral, believers and kaafirs, stating that there is not any one among them who will not pass over Hell, a decree which Allaah has issued and of which He has warned His slaves. So it must inevitably come to pass, and there is no avoiding it.

The scholars differed as to the meaning of this passing over. Some said that it means that Hell will be brought close to all creatures, until it terrifies all of them, then Allaah will save those who fear Him.

Some said that it means that all will enter it, but it will be coolness and safety for the believers.

Some said that it means crossing the siraat which is a bridge over Hell. The people will cross it according to their deeds: some will cross it in the twinkling of an eye, some like the wind, some like swift horses; some will pass quickly, some will walk, some will crawl and some will be snatched and thrown into the Fire, all according to their level of fear of Allaah. Hence Allaah says “Then We shall save those who used to fear Allaah and were dutiful to Him” i.e., by doing what He commanded and avoiding what He forbade; “And We shall leave the Zaalimoon (polytheists and wrongdoers)” i.e., those who wronged themselves by disbelieving and committing sin, “therein (humbled) to their knees (in Hell)” – this is because of the wrongdoing and kufr, so they will deserve to abide therein forever and there will be no way out for them.

From Tafseer Ibn Sa’di, p. 811

Secondly:

It is essential for those who will be admitted to Paradise to be cleansed of all their sins before they enter it. The sinners’ cleansing of their sins may happen in this world or in the Hereafter. In this world, Allaah has given His slaves ways of cleansing themselves thereof, by following their sins and evil deeds with prayers for forgiveness, sincere repentance and good deeds that erase sin. We have already discussed this matter in the answer to question no. 13693.

With regard to the purification of the sinners in the Hereafter, this will be achieved in several ways:

1 – Prayers of the believers for the (deceased) believer, such as their offering the funeral prayer for him. It was narrated from ‘Aa’ishah and Anas ibn Maalik that the Prophet (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) said: “There is no deceased person for whom a group of Muslims numbering one hundred offer the funeral prayer, all of them interceding for him, but their intercession for him will be accepted.” Narrated by Muslim, 947.

It was narrated that Ibn ‘Abbaas (may Allaah be pleased with him) said: I heard the Messenger of Allaah (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) say: “There is no Muslim man who dies and forty men who do not associate anything in worship with Allaah stand and pray for him, but Allaah will accept their intercession for him.” Narrated by Muslim, 948.

So it is known that this du’aa’ is one of the means of the deceased being forgiven.

2 – Acts of ongoing charity that the person did during his life will benefit him after his death.

3 – Good deeds done on behalf of the deceased, such as charity, Hajj, etc. These will benefit him, according to the texts of the saheeh Sunnah. It was proven in al-Saheehayn that the Prophet (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) said: “Whoever dies owing fasts, let his heir fast on his behalf.” And it was narrated from Abu Hurayrah that the Messenger of Allaah (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) said: “When a man dies all his good deeds come to an end except three: ongoing charity, beneficial knowledge and a righteous child who will pray for him.” Narrated by Muslim, 1638.

4 – What happens in the grave of the trial, squeezing and terror. These are things that expiate for sins.

5 – The intercession of the Prophet (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) and others for sinners on the Day of Resurrection, as is narrated in mutawaatir reports in the ahaadeeth about intercession, such as the words of the Prophet (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) in the saheeh hadeeth, “My intercession will be for those among my ummah who committed major sins,” and “I was given the choice between admitting half of my ummah to Paradise and intercession, and I chose intercession because it is more general and greater. Do you think it will be only for the pious? No, it will be for the sinners who contaminated themselves with sins.” Narrated by Ibn Maajah 4311; classed as saheeh by al-Albaani in Saheeh Ibn Maajah, 3480.

6 – The terrors, difficulties and hardships of the Day of Resurrection.

7 – The mercy and forgiveness of Allaah bestowed with no action on the part of His slaves. It was narrated that Abu Hurayrah (may Allaah be pleased with him) said: I heard the Messenger of Allaah (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) say: “Allaah created mercy on the day that He created it, and divided it into one hundred parts. He kept ninety-nine parts and sent one to all of His creation. If the kaafir knew of all that is with Allaah of mercy, he would never despair of Paradise, and if the believer knew of all that is with Allaah of punishment he would never feel safe from Hell.”

Narrated by al-Bukhaari, 6469.

And the Messenger of Allaah (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) said: “Allaah will draw the believer close and screen him and will say, ‘Do you admit such and such sin, do you admit such and such sin?’ and he will say, ‘Yes, O Lord.’ Then when he has admitted his sins and thinks that he is doomed, [Allaah] will say, ‘I concealed them for you in the world and I forgive you for them this Day.’ Then he will be given the book of his good deeds. But as for the kaafir and the hypocrite, “the witnesses will say, “These are the ones who lied against their Lord!” No doubt! the Curse of Allaah is on the Zaalimoon (polytheists, wrongdoers, oppressors)’ [Hood 11:18 – interpretation of the meaning]”

Narrated by al-Bukhaari, 2441.

8 – It is proven in al-Saheehayn that when the believers have crossed al-Siraat, they will be detained on a bridge between Paradise and Hell, where they will settle their scores with one another. Then when they have been cleansed and purified, they will be given permission to enter Paradise. It was narrated that Abu Sa’eed al-Khudri (may Allaah be pleased with him) said: The Messenger of Allaah (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) said: “When the believers have been saved from the Fire, then they will be detained on the bridge between Paradise and Hell. There they will settle the scores between them for any wrongs that they did to one another in this world, and when they have been cleansed and purified, they will be given permission to enter Paradise. By the One in Whose hand is the soul of Muhammad, each of them will recognize his dwelling in Paradise better than he recognizes his dwelling in this world.” Narrated by al-Bukhaari, 6535.

Al-Haafiz Ibn Hajar (may Allaah have mercy on him) said:

“When the believers have been saved from the Fire” means when they have been saved from falling into it after they have crossed al-siraat.

Al-Qurtubi said: These believers are the ones whom Allaah knows that settling scores will not use up all of their good deeds.

I (al-Haafiz) say: Perhaps the people of al-A’raaf are among them, according to the more correct opinion referred to above. Excluded from this are two groups of believers: those who will enter Paradise without being brought to account, and those who are doomed by their deeds.

“they will be detained on the bridge between Paradise and Hell” – al-siraat is a bridge placed across Hell, and Paradise lies beyond that. So the people will pass across it according to their deeds. Among them will be those who are saved, who are the ones whose good deeds outweigh their bad deeds, or they are equal, or Allaah has forgiven them. Some of them will fall into Hell, and they are the ones whose bad deeds outweigh their good deeds, except for those whom Allaah forgives. Those believers in Tawheed who fall will be punished for as long as Allaah wills, then they will be brought out by intercession and other means. The ones who are saved may have some scores which others need to settle with him, but they have good deeds that equal that or outweigh it, so some of their good deeds equivalent to those scores that need to be settled, and thus is will becomes free of responsibility.

“and when they are cleansed and purified” means cleansed and freed of all responsibilities. End quote.

If the Muslim who believed in Allaah alone but committed sins is not cleansed for some reason, then he will enter Hell so that he may be purified completely therein, but he will not abide therein forever, rather he will be brought forth by the intercession of those who intercede and by the mercy of the Most Merciful of those who show mercy.

Shaykh ‘Abd al-‘Azeez ibn Baaz (may Allaah have mercy on him) said:

With regard to the sinners, such as those who kill unlawfully, those who disobey their parents, those who consume riba, and those who drink alcohol – if they die in those sins and they are Muslims, they and others like them will be subject to the will of Allaah, as Allaah says (interpretation of the meaning):

“but He forgives whom He pleases sins other than that”

[al-Nisa’ 4:116]

So if He wills He will forgive them because of the righteous deeds with which they died, which is their belief in Him alone (Tawheed) and their sincerity towards Allaah, and their being Muslims, or the intercession of those who intercede for them, as well as their Tawheed and sincerity.

Or He may punish them without forgiving them, so they are punished by being admitted to Hell and tormented therein, to a degree commensurate with their sins, then they will be brought forth, as is stated in mutawaatir ahaadeeth narrated from the Messenger of Allaah (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him), which say that he will intercede for the sinners among his ummah, and that Allaah will give him a certain number of people a number of times, so he will intercede and bring forth a group by Allaah’s leave, then he will intercede again, and again and again, so he will (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) will intercede four times. And the angels and the believers will also intercede, as will al-afraat (the children who died before they reached the age of puberty). All of them will intercede and Allaah will bring forth whomever He wills from Hell through their intercession. Then there will be some of the sinners from among the believers in Tawheed and Islam left in Hell. Then the Lord will bring them forth by His grace and mercy, without intercession on anyone’s part, and there will be no one left in Hell except those whom the Qur’aan rules will abide therein forever, namely the kuffaar. From Majmoo’ Fataawa wa Maqaalaat Ibn Baaz, 9/380.

It was narrated that Abu Hurayrah said: The Messenger of Allaah (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) said: “… until when Allaah has finished passing judgement amongst His slaves, and He wants to bring forth from Hell those whom He wants of those who used to testify that there is no god except Allaah, He will command the angels to bring them forth and they will know them by the traces of the mark of sujood. Allaah will forbid the Fire to consume the mark of sujood on the sons of Adam. So they will bring them forth and they will have been burned, then water that is called the water of life will be poured on them, and they will grow like seeds growing after a flood recedes.”

Narrated by al-Bukhaari, 6574; Muslim, 172.

It was narrated that Abu Sa’eed said: The Messenger of Allaah (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) said: “As for the people of Hell who belong there, they will neither die nor live therein, but people who entered Hell because of their sins, they will die once, then when they have become like coals, permission will be given for intercession, so they will be brought forth group after group and scattered on the rivers of Paradise, then it will be said, ‘O people of Paradise be generous to them, then they will grow like seeds growing after a flood recedes.”

Narrated by Muslim, 185.

We ask Allaah to bestow His mercy upon us, and to forgive us. Praise be to Allaah the Lord of the Worlds.

And Allaah knows best.

References:

Fataawa Ibn Taymiyah, 7/498-501; Minhaaj al-Sunnah, 6/238; Fath al-Baari, 11/406; al-Bihaar al-Zaajirah, 242;

Islam Q&A

Source: http://www.islam-qa.com/index.php?ref=22467&ln=eng


But please don't get the wrong idea that I'm saying it's alright to sin. It certainly is not alright. Any sane person should try with all his effort to avoid receiving any punishment from God Almighty, even if that punishment lasted for a fraction of a second.


In conclusion, do not let your fear of becoming a sinning Muslim lead you to commit the greatest and unforgivable sin of refusing to enter Islam.


To end this post on a lighter note, please click on the following video clip of Baba Ali's words about the hijab:

[yt]F4jQi0Gjy3M[/yt]


Regards,

Bluegazer

 

[AllpraisetoAllah]

Hi ,

I read a beautiful article about a muslima who wrote her experience about wearing the hijab,I hope you like this article and makes u understand why a girl would decide to wear a hijab.

Article :

Only for Allaah - A Sister's Story

On the morning of Thursday, November 6, 1997 my identity became clear not only to me, but to every person I would encounter from that day forward. I decided to wear the hijaab and begin to develop myself as a more conscientious Muslim woman. It was on that very day that I revealed to the world that I am a Muslim and that I was no longer afraid to be who I was.

For those of you who are unfamiliar with the term, hijaab, it literally means 'barrier' or 'something that covers or conceals completely'. In today's non-Islamic societies, the true meaning of the hijaab is often replaced with such notions as scarves, kerchiefs, or 'head-pieces' - as one of my co-workers eloquently put it. Many people are simply uneducated about the why Muslims must dress modestly and because of this profound lack of knowledge and understanding many stereotypes and misconceptions arise.

I am not going to go into the intricate details about the purpose of the hijaab or submerse myself in the ongoing debate as to whether or not the hijaab is an obligatory practice for Muslim men and women. There are many fabulous books available that go through the ins-and-outs of appropriate Muslim dress. Better yet, I implore all of you to pick up a Qur'an, and read over the verses concerning modesty and dress.

In Surah 24: Al-Nur (or The Light), verses 30-31 it says:

"Say to the believing men that they should lower their gaze and guard their modesty: that will make for greater purity of 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: they should not display their ornaments except what must ordinarily appear thereof; that they should draw their veils over their bosoms and not display their beauty..."

Today, I am simply here to share with you my personal experiences in hope that you may find some meaning and sense of inspiration in what I have to say.

Raised in a Muslim family, I was brought up with the basic, fundamental principles and values that Islam instills. I was taught to pray, to fast, to be kind-hearted, generous and to share the Deen of Allah graciously with those around me. The thought of one day 'covering my head' occasionally popped into my mind, but the thought that almost always followed was - "Not until I'm ready!" I never really understood what hijaab meant. I often thought that it was man's clever way of keeping woman under his control.

I soon came to realize that I very wrong. In fact, the hijaab was the perfect outlet for women to seek liberation, respect and ultimate freedom from sexual harassment and the liking. For years and years I would wake up extra early to style my hair according to what was 'in' at the time. I would spend over an hour caking make-up onto my face, trying to look beautiful - but never quite sure for who? Each morning I would eventually make my way out into the world - not really prepared to be judged, solely on my physical appearance, by every person I was to encounter along my path.

Now that I look back at who I was then, it makes me grateful to Allah (SWT) to see how far he has brought me. For a time, I was confused and somewhat lost, as are many young women in non-Islamic nations - trying desperately to fit in to a society that dictates that beauty is naked, emaciated teenagers on a billboards selling perfume and underwear. I recently read that some of those models and actors that I once adored, practically have to kill themselves to look the way they do. From face-lifts to lipo-suction. Some even go as far as having their ribs removed so they can have tiny waists!

The harder I tried to fit in, the more frustrated I became. It finally dawned on me that the images being flashed in front of me 24 hours a day could not possibly be true representations women's liberation. I was convinced that there had to be a simpler answer somewhere.

It was at this point that I decided it was time to put some more thought into this whole 'hijaab' issue. And I did. For 3.5 years I contemplated the thought of wearing hijaab, but the fear inside of me was overwhelming. I was afraid of what my friends would say. I was afraid of what my professors and colleagues might think. I was terrified that I would be harassed at work, or even worse - fired! All of these thoughts raced through my mind, day in and day out. Each time I seriously though about doing it I would say, "But, I'm not ready yet!" A very convenient excuse I must say!

I finally said to myself, "Jennifer, look at the big picture!" Now, when I say big picture, I don't mean next week, or in a few months or even 25 years down the road. I mean the akhira - the hear-after. I asked myself a very straightforward question. Who am I going to fear? These strangers who I know not or Allah? I finally convinced myself that it was time for me to take this step closer to Allah, as difficult as it may have seemed at the time.

As I was having my very last doubt the verse in Surah Al Baqarah (verse 286, I believe), continued to penetrate my heart: "La yukalif Allah nafsin ila was'ha". "On no soul doth Allah place a burden greater than it can bear". These are the very words that gave me the courage to finally make the right choice. It was at that very moment that I said, "Allah, I will wear this hijaab because I believe in my heart that you have asked me to do so. Please guide me and give me the strength to do this."

Just over a year has gone by now and I can honesty tell you that I have never felt more free or more at peace with myself and the world around me. In all fairness I will be honest and tell you that it wasn't an easy thing to do. Quite frankly, it was probably the most difficult challenge I've had to face in my life. Isn't it ironic how that works? The things that will benefit us most and that make the most sense are often those we fail to realize or have difficulty accepting.

I've had to deal with a variety of off-the-wall comments. But what it all boils down to is me making a personal decision to increase my faith and become what I believe to be a better Muslim. To me the hijab not only represents modesty, purity, righteousness and protection but truly is the ultimate state of respect and liberation. Alhamdou lilah, I am free!

I am a Muslim woman
Feel free to ask me why
When I walk
I walk with dignity

When I speak
I do not lie
I am a Muslim woman
Not all of me you'll see

But what you should appreciate
Is that the choice I make is free
I'm not plagued with depression
I'm neither cheated nor abused

I don't envy other women
And I'm certainly not confused
Note, I speak perfect English
Et un petit peu de Francais aussie

I'm majoring in Linguistics
So you need not speak slowly
I run my own small business
Every cent I earn is mine

I drive my Chevy to school & work
And no, that's not a crime!
You often stare as I walk by
You don't understand my veil

But peace and power I have found
As I am equal to any male!

I am a Muslim woman
So please don't pity me
For God has guided me to truth

And now I'm finally free!

 

[Min-Fadhli-Rabii]

Hi Marta,
I hope you are in good health .Thanks for allowing your mind to know about Islam and mostly asking muslims themselves but not taking the picture which is painted by the media.God is guiding you to find the truth.
Before I answer your question I would like you to find out why Mary(mother of Jesus PBUH) was wearing hijab(you can see the paint of her ''Mary'' in the church with hijab .
Also I would like you to find out why nuns they wear hijab. It will be very good if you ask them(nuns, priest,pastor,minister etc) because you can gain alot of knowledge not only on muslims side but also on christians side.
First of all, muslims women wear hijab because is the commandments of Allah .God has commanded muslims women to wear hijab in the Quran .So,muslims women they are fullfilling the command of Almight Allah.
It is well known that the Muslim woman is a creature of modesty. Allah loves for our Muslim women to be shielded by their hijaab. It is their outer protection from the decadence of this life. Allah's Messenger (sallallaahu 'alaihi wa sallam {SAWS}) said (what means): "Allah is modest and covering. He loves modesty and privacy." (Aboo Daawood, an-Nasaa'ee al-Bayhaqee, Ahmad - saheeh).

Thus, as modesty is a quality that is loved by Allah, our sisters must take comfort in knowing that they are modest and that they are not like those women who show themselves off to the world. Such women will not be shielded from Allah's Wrath. Allah's Messenger (SAWS) said: "Any woman who takes off her clothes in other than her husband's home, has broken Allah's shield upon her." (Abo Dawod and at-Tirmithee)

Therefore, we see that the hijaab of the Muslim woman is indeed part of modesty. Modesty accompanies eemaan (faith). That is why Allah's Messenger said: "Modesty is part of eemaan and eemaan is in Paradise." (At-Tirmithee - saheeh). Also: "Modesty and eemaan are companions, when one goes away the other one goes away." (Al-Haakim and others)

The Muslim women must know that the disbelieving women who beautify themselves for the world to see possess no modesty, thus, they are void of any eemaan. Instead of looking to the latest fashion models for guidance, you must look to the wives of the Prophet (SAWS).

Look at the regard for modesty that our mother, 'Aa'ishah possessed even in the presence of the deceased; she said: "I used to enter the room where the Messenger of Allah (SAWS) and my father (Abo Bakr) were later buried in without having my garment on me, saying it is only my husband and my father. But when 'Umar Bin al-Khattab was later buried in (the same place), I did not enter the room except that I had my garment on being shy from 'Umar."

It could be quite difficult for the Muslim woman to go out wearing hijaab in a society that mocks and torments her. She, indeed, feels strange and out of place. However, if she knows the status of those who are mocked by the disbelievers, then she would continue to wear her hijaab with dignity.

Allah says in His Book (what means): "Verily! the criminals used to laugh at those who believed. And whenever they passed them, used to wink at one another. And when they returned to their own people, they would return jesting. When they saw them, they said: 'These have indeed gone astray!' But they (disbelievers, sinners) had not been sent as watchers over them (the believers). But on this Day those who believe will laugh at the disbelievers. On (high) thrones, looking (at all things). Are not the disbelievers paid (fully) for what they used to do?" (Al-Mutaffifeen: 83:29-36)

Allah's Words should serve as a support for you my dear sister. Also, take comfort in being a stranger among these lewd and sinful women. Allah's Messenger (SAWS) said (what means): "Islam began as something strange, and it would revert to its (old position) of being strange, so good news is for the strangers." (Muslim)

Instead of practising the hijaab (covering), the disbelieving women expose themselves, making a dazzling display of themselves for others. Such display is an attribute of ignorance. Allah says in His Book (what means): "And stay in your houses and do not display yourselves as you used to during the times of ignorance." (Al-Ahzaab 33:33)

Allah's Messenger (SAWS) said: "The best of your women is the affectionate, the fertile, the comforting, the agreeable - if they fear Allah. The most evil of your women are the those who expose and display themselves, and those who strut (to show off) and they are the hypocrites. Those who enter al-Jannah (the Paradise) are like the red beaked crow." (Al-Bayhaqee in his Sunan. The mentioning of this kind of crow is to show that those who enter Paradise will be as rare as this kind crow is rare.)

We see from the above aayah and hadith that displaying oneself is indeed unlawful. Further, it is a quality of the most evil of women! Therefore, do not be envious of the disbelieving women. They only have this life to enjoy, while the believing women will have Paradise. There is nothing in your hijaab to be ashamed of as it is the garment of the righteous and pious female worshippers of Allah.

In order to truly show you how evil those women who expose themselves are, let us ponder over the following statement of Allah's Messenger (SAWS): "Of the people of Hell there are two whom I have never seen, the one possessing whips like the tail of an ox and they flog people with them. The second one, women who would be naked in spite of their being dressed, who are seduced (to wrong paths) and seduce others. Their hair is high like the humps of the camel. These women would not enter Paradise, nor will they smell its fragrance, although its fragrance can be sensed from such and such a distance." (Muslim)

These women who expose themselves are common among us today. These are women that even the Prophet (SAWS) did not see! Look around you and you will see those women who are clothed but naked! Look at the hair styles of the women who, expose themselves - are they not high like the camel's hump?

Perhaps we are the first generation since the time of Adam to witness such women. If one ponders over photos taken thirty to fifty years ago, one will see that the disbelieving women did not make expose themselves in the manner that their offspring today! These women are among the people of the Fire! Thus, how can you envy them?

Therefore, the Muslim men should not let the people of the Fire over their modest wives, daughters and sisters? Such lewd women will not even smell the fragrance of Paradise; so our women must avoid their path.

Another lesson from the above hadith is that it confirms that what the Prophet (SAWS) came with is indeed the truth! This is a prophecy that has come to pass in front of our very eyes. Hence, will we continue to envy these evil women, or should we be grateful to our Lord for the hijaab which brings modesty which leads to Paradise?

On the whole. the Muslim woman should abandon all of the ways of the exposed, and adopt the ways of those who are modest through their love and practice of the proper Islamic hijaab.

Why some western muslims women dont wear hijab ?

A sister who does not truly know the superiority of hijaab will always remain envious of disbelieving women. Why? Because they observe these misguided disbelievers attempting to look beautiful for all to see. Hence, the Muslim woman then compares herself to that woman which causes her to feel ashamed of her own hijaab.

I leave you with this poem.
You look at me and call me oppressed,
Simply because of the way I'm dressed,
You know me not for what's inside,
You judge the clothing I wear with pride,


My body's not for your eyes to hold,
You must speak to my mind, not my feminine mold,

I'm an individual, I'm no mans slave,
It's Allah's pleasure that I only crave,
I have a voice so I will be heard,
For in my heart I carry His word,

"O ye women, wrap close your cloak,
So you won't be bothered by ignorant folk",
Man doesn't tell me to dress this way,
It's a Law from God that I obey,

Oppressed is something I'm truly NOT,
For liberation is what I've got,
It was given to me many years ago,
With the right to prosper, the right to grow,

I can climb mountains or cross the seas,
Expand my mind in all degrees,
For God Himself gave us LIB-ER-TY,
When He sent Islam,
To You and Me!