Question
Please offer some advice on the following scenario. We are seeing the beginnings of change in the mentality of the UK non-muslim population. Although they dislike the burka, they tolerate it. However, the niqab is something that politicians have openly insulted, with no apology and have been supported surprisingly by previously very quiet non-muslims up and down the UK. They voice opinions such as it being a security risk as helmets and balaclavas and other face veils are not allowed in public. So currently their hate for it is based on some justification. From their point of view, it is a fair comment and they cannot understand why there is discrimination. You either allow all face coverings in public or ban them, there's no in-between. However I am worried as my sisters and mother wear the niqab. May Allah protect them but I am undecided as to what to do moving forward. 1) Do you have any advice as to what I should do when it comes to my mother and sisters who wear niqab? 2) Are you aware of any valid response I can give when it comes to niqab being a security risk, inability to see the face and ultimately laws in the UK which ban helmets and other face coverings but allow the niqab?
Answer
In the final analysis everything is the decree of Allah Ta'ala. The Shariah orders women to remain at home and not leave the home precincts without pressing and valid reason. Most Muslim women, all over the world, regard the Niqaab as a licence to wander and prowl in public places. In view of this abandonment of true Hijaab – Hijaab of the heart – Allah Ta'ala has decreed the current anti-Hijaab attitude in non-Muslims. But, Muslims themselves are the cause for this attitude of the non-Muslims. It is merely the consequence of Muslim disobedience and transgression.
In view of the hatred for Hijaab displayed openly by non-Muslims, it is hoped that Muslim women will come to their senses and remain indoors to avoid being insulted outside in the streets.
Your mother and sisters should remain indoors. Only if there is a real need should they venture outside. They should not go to shops, supermarkets and the like. The menfolk should see to the needs of the home.
If there is a real and valid need for them to emerge from the home, they should continue wearing their Niqaab as long as they are not exposed to physical violence.
You will not be able to convince non-Muslims regarding the necessity of the niqaab. Just make dua. If Muslims abandon their rebellious transgression and revert to the Sunnah, Allah Ta'ala will change the attitudes of the kuffaar.
- Source
- themajlis.co.za
- Published in
- The Majlis Vol 24 No 12
- PDF page
- 2
Appears under EQUIPMENT LIKE A CHAMBER POT} (approximate).