Is Hijab Obligatory?

Answered by Ustadha Raidah Shah Idil

Question: Sometimes I feel strongly about wearing hijab, but what if my husband is no longer attracted to me? Isn’t hijab a concept of modesty? Why do women (generally) in scarves look more attractive these days with perfect makeup and scarf accessories compared to those without? Is Hijab really obligatory?

Answer: Assalamualaykum wa rahmatullahi wa barakatuh,

I pray this finds you well. May Allah reward you for your sincerity in doing that which is pleasing to Him.

Obligatory nature of hijab

Please read this related answer to clarify your doubts about the obligation of hijab. In summary, there is no doubt about the obligatory nature of hijab.

Look to the Creator, not creation

Muslims, by virtue of being human, will always fall short. Do not look at the rising ‘hijabista’ movement as a reflection of hijab, nor look at women who uncover during their wedding day or on holidays. Rather, remember the hijab encourages virtues like modesty, chastity, and a focus away from physical beauty.

Be the change you wish to see in the world. You have no control over the actions of others, but you do have control over your actions. If we were to judge Islam based on the actions of Muslims, today and even historically, we would be in trouble! Every soul will answer to Allah, so take responsibility for your own actions.

Repentance

Allah Most High has told us in a Hadith Qudsi, “My servant draws near to Me by nothing more beloved to Me than that which I have made obligatory upon him.”

The door to seeking forgiveness from Allah is open until the moment your soul leaves your body. Do not fear being a sinful hijabi – acknowledge that you will still sin, but at least when you are in hijab, you are fulfilling an obligation upon you.

Addressing your fears

Your husband is so blessed to have a wife who is keen in bettering her practice of the deen. He will still be able to witness your beauty within the privacy of your home. I pray that his practice of Islam will also strengthen when he sees you wear hijab.

Allah is the Turner of Hearts, including your husband, so make it a habit to wake up before fajr and beg Allah for ease in this matter. Even a regular dua before fajr is a tremendous blessing, until you are able to pray regular tahajjud. Read Ayatul Kursi after every prayer and ask Allah for ease, strength, and commitment. Strengthening your inward state and connection to Allah will help you be steadfast in your outward adherence of hijab, inshaAllah.

May Allah ease the doubts in your heart, and strengthen your resolve to better your practice of Islam.

Wassalam,
Raidah

Related links:

My husband won’t let me wear hijab
Pressured by my parents to take off my hijab: how should I respond?

Raidah Shah Idil

Checked and Approved by Shaykh Faraz Rabbani