Should I Remove the Hijab Because I Am a Bad Example for Others?

Answered by Ustadha Sulma Badrudduja

Question: Even though I wear the hijab, I dont feel like I am a good representative of Islam. Should I just remove it?

Answer: Wa alaikum assalam wa rahmatullah,

I hope this answer reaches you in ever-increasing levels of faith.

Wearing the hijab, like any other act of worship, is done for the sake of Allah alone. Your intention should be to fulfill a command of God. All acts of obedience are tremendous, and one should never underestimate any act, even if small, for each one brings God’s mercy and reward. Allah Most High says in the Qur’an: “And whosoever does an atom’s weight of good shall see it” [99:01].

Though we pray that Allah makes us good examples for others, this is neither our goal nor the basis of what we are held accountable for. Rather, we are held accountable for the obligations due upon us towards our Lord and His creation. You should always keep doing what you can of the practices that you currently do, and then work gradually to increase it. How will you be able to increase if you  consider leaving the things that you are doing now?

Do not let your feelings about your shortcomings preoccupy you. You should only concern yourself with them long enough to repent and renew your intention to strive for doing better. Allah is Ever-Merciful and All-Forgiving; it is not permissible to despair of His mercy or His forgiveness. It is a great blessing that you have been given the strength to wear the hijab! It’s not something easy. I’m sure that this is a sign of your being able to achieve more of the things you want to in terms of your practice. Continue making sincere du`a to Allah and remain in good and uplifting company.

Allah says, “With hardship comes ease. Certainly, with hardship comes ease” [94:4-5].

wassalam,
Sulma

Checked & Approved by Faraz Rabbani