Hijab Wars - Redefining Islam and Struggle of Muslim Ideologies
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20 Million — According to many estimates, that’s the number of Muslims in Turkey, who oppose the wearing of hijab by Muslim women in universities and schools.
Heeding to that support and in respect of the “secular principles”, Turkey today has a ban on wearing Hijab in universities and schools. The ban has been in place for a few years.
Very recently however, the Turkish government led by Prime Minister Erdogan’s Justice and Development Party in association with the Nationalist Action Party has proposed an amendment to the constitution seeking the removal of a ban on hijab in schools and universities.
| This deal came to fruition when a compromise was reached between the parties allowing women and girls at universities to cover their heads only by tying the headscarf in the traditional way beneath the chin. |  |
The government’s stance is that such a measure ensures liberties at universities, without compromising the secular principles on which modern Turkey is founded. They also contend that doing so will signal a progress in the field of rights and freedoms, thus allowing Turkey to join EU (European Union) membership.
Those who are in favor of keeping the ban have been voicing their concerns very loudly on this move by the government by releasing a declaration that states that “abolishing the move would pave the way to leading Turkey’s universities away from “rationality and reason.”
For 20 Million Muslims to support a hijab ban is shocking, to say the least. Mainstream Muslims have gotten used to the non-Muslim world frowning upon Muslim women’s hijab – but when it’s Muslims who oppose a Muslim women’s right to wear hijab, it raises the need for the Muslim Ummah to do some serious soul searching and ask tough questions.
It prompts the question that what is it about hijab and the image of Islam that is making so many Turkish Muslims (and probably other Muslims in other countries) passionate about the necessity of denying it to their fellow Muslims who want to instead don the hijab?
It raises the question that what is it that is driving one segment of Turkish Muslims to turn Turkey – a nation of 99% Muslims into a secular nation?
It raises the question that why are some Muslim groups bent to redefine the divine laws of Islam?
A false image of Islam
It is quite obvious that more than what hijab proponents wish in exercising their religiosity to wear hijab in universities and schools, the secular Muslim opposition wants to snub the issue lest it snowballs in what they feel may be a return of a “backward” Islam. And we know that labeling Islam to be such can’t be further from truth. Yet the unfortunate reality is that those Muslim fear mongers have drawn up an image of Islam that Islam isn’t – and they have collaborated with some in media circles to amplify that twisted image of Islam. Obviously, the painting of such a false image by media circles further feeds into the hijab frenzy thus in turn hardening that false image.
| I have discussed in earlier posts on this blog that unfortunately the practices of some groups of Muslims indeed have contributed toward the building of that aura of backwardness. This in turn has provided fuel to the agenda of those Muslims on the left to redefine and rebrand Islam to suit the standards of the so called “progressive societies” of today. Thus, while one sect of Muslims on the right took the religion to one extreme giving it the aura of backwardness, the other one on the extreme left is redefining Islam to be secular – a version that they believe will help them better assimilate with the new peoples of this world. |
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Backward – we know Islam is not, but unless mainstream Muslims undertake a conscious effort at grassroots levels to dispel and puncture hijab’s and Islam’s aura of “backwardness” and whatever else negative and false is associated with it, mainstream Muslims in general will find themselves squashed between these two extreme views of Islam always defending Islam’s improperly drawn up image by the Muslims on the extreme left and the extreme right.
“Secular Islam” – An oxymoron
The Oxford English Dictionary defines “secular” as something that is “not religious, sacred, or spiritual” or “not subject to or bound by religious rule”. Phrases such as “Secular Religion” or “Secular Islam” therefore are an oxymoron. But in recent months, the “secular Islam” movement has picked up enormously. Another article on the IqraSense.com blog discusses the new notion of “secular Islam” by Muslim secularists.
But what does “secular Islam” mean? An Islam not bound by religious rule?
That obviously does not make any sense. Whatever manifesto the Muslim secularists strive to propagate, they probably seem to be forgetting that unlike many other religions, Islam is a “way of life” – how one treat’s people, how one conducts oneself in a society, and the whole enchilada about living life is Islam. You can’t separate Islam from a Muslim’s daily life. A Muslim’s Islam for example does not begin and end in a mosque. That’s not how it works but obviously the “secular Muslims” have an agenda. You can read about their agenda and their charter in a related article on this blog.
Even when considered from the perspective of secularism, secular Turkey’s stance on hijab and other similar Islamic issues seems to run opposite to the principles of secularism itself. These secular idealists seem very “religious” about knocking down everything about Islam’s teachings. Even the most secular nations of the world don’t come close to the secularism that Turkey has espoused. Consider the US for example – it is the largest democracy in the world and by all measures including that of its constitution is considered a secular nation. The US with its 82% Christians has rarely considered any such move that would deny the citizens of its country the right to exercise religious freedoms, especially when they do not encroach into anyone’s lifestyles, security or business.
| While this whole concept of “secular Islam” seems to defy intellectual reasoning, unfortunately, there are many in Turkey’s so called intellectual class who actively advocate the hijab ban. Dozens of university rectors and deans in Turkey released a declaration that voices their concerns about wearing hijab in universities and schools by stating that “abolishing the move would pave the way to leading Turkey’s universities away from “rationality and reason.” |
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Fortunately, there are other academics around the country who have issued their own declaration in support of the removal of the unjust ban saying:
We who are university instructors have been following recent discussions as well as years of policies regarding clothing and outfits closely and with great concern. We believe that universities should take an approach favoring freedoms, not prohibitions, when it comes to fundamental human rights such as the freedoms of thought, expression, religion, belief and education. We want our universities to be remembered for the science they are engaged in, as this is the worthy way for contemporary, civilized countries. We believe that as in every country, the freedom to dress whichever way a person wants should be given to all of our students without discrimination on the basis of religion, belief, thought, race, ethnic group or gender, and demand that all implementations to the contrary be halted at once. We announce this to the public with respect.
Perhaps secular Turkey may realize one day that imposing a ban on hijab is drawing the nation further from secularism and that the movement of anti-Islam has morphed into a new religion of its own. Call it whatever you wish – but that’s not secular by any standards.
Defying religious teachings
Having to witness this resistance by Muslims about wearing hijab highlights another issue. We know that Islam is not a man made religion. Islamic teachings are divine and pave a way for success and peace in this life and hereafter by enjoining certain guidelines and warning against following others. For example, gambling, eating pork, alcohol consumption and wearing hijab are almost accepted to be as undisputed teachings by most mainstream Muslims and scholars. This therefore raises the question for those who seek to change hijab laws of whether their stance is based on a religious interpretation by a group of certain scholars or is it that they seek to amend the laws of Islam on their own accord. What gives them the right to amend God’s laws? If they feel they have the right to do so, then where do they draw the line? Given the fact that wearing a hijab (head scarf) is only one part of Islamic attire, what else will they prohibit mainstream Muslims from doing next? Moreover, why is consuming alcohol or eating pork any different from wearing hijab when there are clear instructions in the Quran and Hadith about all of the above?
Our continued ability to separate right from wrong enables us to maintain the sanctity of right and wrong and prevents the compromise and eroding of ones values over time. Even in cases when we personally may be engaged in something that’s on the “wrong”, it is vital to maintain that distinction as that leaves the door open for the transition to the “right”. Not respecting the line that separates the right from the wrong leaves one exposed to the waves of gradual change that in some cases may be catastrophic. This is similar to what we know about the boiling water and frog analogy. The boiling frog story states that if a frog is placed in boiling water, it will jump out, but if it is placed in cold water that is slowly heated, it will fail to feel the change and thus never jump out and will die in the process. The upshot of the story is that people should make themselves aware of gradual change lest they cross that line and suffer a catastrophic loss. How many values and principles can you personally point out that were once frowned upon a few years ago but today have become part of everyone’s daily lives?
| Once we start answering these questions – and start answering them by avoiding simplistic and patronizing answers, will we begin to blur away the differences between Muslims’ many definitions of Islam. At that point, we can present a unified image of Islam to the world. |  |
To those Muslims who want to redefine Islam through a mix bag of ideologies and theologies, the message of the mainstream Muslims is clear – Get to know the proper Islam and stop diluting the religion in the false hopes of using it as a panacea for self inflicted problems. There are better ways to guide through the maze of today’s challenges than compromising the ideals of the religion. Islam came about almost 1500 years ago with a message of peace to suit all peoples of all times. Its message is more humane than any human rights organization’s charter and more liberating for women than any women societies’ manifesto has to offer. Don’t let ignorance and misrepresentations guide you to carve out new inconsistent theologies, doctrines and dogmas.
And to those Muslims on the extreme right mired in the principles of extremism and backwardness, the philosophy of the message is no different. Get to know and understand the spirit and the context of the Islamic teachings and rulings. Use knowledge, increased reflection, flexibility, and wisdom – all concepts inherent in the principles of the religion to change the image of Islam into what Islam really was meant to uphold.
What do you think? Do you think that hijab is not mandated in Islam? What is your opinion about the efforts of those bent to “secularize” Islam? Your thoughts are always welcome !
| — IqraSense.com Blogger |
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February 9th, 2008 at 8:33 am
Some people say Islam is backward, but is it not backward to take away the freedom of choice of a woman to wear hijab? Can a woman not make up her own mind whether or not she wishes to wear it? Is this not taking away a womans?
February 9th, 2008 at 8:35 am
Assalam o Alaikum,
My question is about “what is hijab in Islam as per the teachings of Quran and Holy Prophet PBUH? What parts of body of a woman are exempted from Hijab? Few women keep their face open, Few keep their eyes open and few even cover every thing. What is correct?
Please advise in the light of Quran and Hadith.
Best regards,
Shariq
February 9th, 2008 at 8:45 am
I think it is backward to take away a woman’s freedom of choice to wear the hijab, but there are others who will say that a woman similary should have the right to wear skimpy, sexually revealing clothing in public, as most women do in the west. Would the same ‘freedom of choice’ principle still work for them?
Surely the hijab issue is not the main one we should all be talking about though. To my mind, the main issue for Islam is its hijacking by extremists, who give it a bad name by committing atrocious acts of indiscriminate killing. Killing is always bad, and some of the extremists even kill other Muslims. Where are our voices against this?
February 9th, 2008 at 9:35 am
it is very unfortunate and heart breaking to see muslims are supporting ban on headscarf. hijab is mandated for islam as narrated in islam and hadit
February 9th, 2008 at 9:47 am
those who think that by removing head scraf is a sign of modernaty they r actually misleading the whole world and their main intension is to nudu the women in public placess for their own intrest. thats it. but one day world will realise its importance.
and hijab is not a obstackle in growth and development of neither women nor the nation.
February 9th, 2008 at 10:39 am
Asalmoalikum To all brother’s and Sisters
Well, No doubt that is very sensitive issue but on the other hand, its answer is very easy, we should think what Islam says about it. Islam tells us that our ladies should cover themselves by using Veil or Hijab. We should take this as our duty to tell our ladies to have use veil or hijab to cover them.
May Allaha fogives us for not doing things according to Islam.
February 9th, 2008 at 11:26 am
It has become obvious that the Turkish government which is laid on the principles of secularism has been facing the most difficult times in its history. I believe those who support the ban of wearing veil in the public areas do not understand the values of democracy. A country with more than 90% Muslims is afraid of its own shadow due to the loss of identity. Just pay respect to those who want to put the hijab on, likewise pay respect to those who do not want to.
February 9th, 2008 at 11:54 am
S.A.
I have been observing this debate in Turkey and listening to Australian Turks on the issue. I have watched the Turkish Media and their handling of the debate. As a Turkish person by descent, I am astounded that fundamental human rights are being eroded by the securalist elite amongst Turks. Their propagandist and so-called secularist marketing machinery will hide behind cliche to scaremonger those who are wavering in their views on the headscarf.
Common reasons cited by the opponents of the headscarf are “it is not even in the Quran that a women must cover”, “we prefer women who reveal their beauty”, and one discussion forum editor wrote “girls who allow their hair to move with the wind, holding hands (with similar girls), flirting, smiling, …and independent, are best suited to my country (Turkey)”. Other reasons alleged are that it is a political tool by the Islamists to destabilise the country and create a Sharia regime by proxy. Others feel that it is the first line in a series of steps towards Sharia, heading towards a regime like Saudii Arabia.
Of course, the secularists will totally evade the most important issue, that of the FUNDAMENTAL RIGHT of a girl or woman to wear the headscarf in line with their religious belief. The majority-Muslim Turkey has never since the 1920’s imposed the headscarf on those who have not wanted to wear it, nor banned them from public office, university etc. It is odd that the opponents of the headscarf defend such a skewed and evil “right wing secular regime” which erodes freedoms so badly.
There seems to be a central coordination to he views expressed by the opponents of the headscarf, and it is clear to me that the political machinery of the anti-headscarf propagandists are somewhat organised because I hear their views being echoed almost word for word across the world. For example, they have recently engaged in trying to convince Muslims that the scarf is not in the Quran, and further suggesting that beyond the Tawheed the scarf is not obligatory in Islam, and therefore the ban should not be taken as a bad thing. This is not even the point in my view, I don’t tell someone to change the frame of their sunglasses because I dislike the style, or to remove their hat, and I demand a similar respect for my freedoms.
Personally, the issue is even beyond Turkey, and it would be appropriate for the United Nations to step in and insist that the women of the world, wherever they live, should be able to chose their style of clothing, and dress in accordance with their religious belief, without state interference. Within the variety of clothing styles acceptable to Western Communities, the headscarf causes no harm to another person.
I know that consensus amongst Muslims across the world is in favour of a form of headscarf/modest covering of bosom/neck/hair, and this, together with the contextual history of the headscarf during the times of our Prophet (SAWS), and the relevant Quranic verses, is adequate for the women who wear the headscarf, and they need not have to justify it to the “fanatical right wing secularists” in the West. Those who would propose to keep the ban are an affront to modernity, and are backward in their thinking by virtue of it. Unfortunately, their views, in my personal experiences, are often only the tip of the iceberg, and the headscarf is simply the line drawn in the sand to argue their point.
Inshaallah our Muslim women are spared unnecessary hardship, as they are an easy target for these people because of their sex. It is time for our Muslim women to be strong, assertive, and prepare their Dawah accordingly.
I urge sincere Muslim and non Muslim to be calm and respect each other on this point. I do not expect it to go away, but it will certainly draw a lot of attention to the debate about Muslim Woman in contemporary times, and this cannot be too bad a thing, as it will strengthen the individual and the community Inshaallah.
February 9th, 2008 at 12:03 pm
Hijab is very important,as far as Islam is concerned and its my sincere hope that there is no one who is not aware of this fact.It is only that we are pretending to be unware and negleting our rights due to worldly gains of which it won’t benefit us anyhowly.Allah Taala warns us in several verses of the Holy Quran on those who sell His religion[Islam] at a thro-away price,that they ‘ll be sentsed for a severe punishment in the hereafter.Therefore whoever is bending to the so called “secularizing of Islam”,has to be aware that he is is also advocating for a toment punishment for himself,May Allah save us.
February 9th, 2008 at 1:07 pm
Turkey has lost it’s identity. I cannot immagine a country of 99% muslims running away from it’s shadows. Behaviours of such natures occur if Islam is left in the hands of ignorant people. There is the need to clear the wrong ideologies being fed to young muslims in order not have the correct thoughts of Islam eroded away from this generation.
February 9th, 2008 at 1:32 pm
While it is an individual’s own choice how he or she wants to dress, much of Turkey’s secular stance is rooted in its complicated history with the Arabs. Turkey was the seat of khilafat, and the arabs, dissatisfied with the khilafat’s negative influence on them (the latter Othmani Khalifas were far from perfect), and the fact that the khalifa was not an arab, rebelled against him in cahoots with the British and fought against the turks in WW1. the result was that the khilafat feel, Ataturk, being a nationalist, saved most what he cared about the most (The Turkish soil), and while doing so tried to remove all influence of Arabs that comes with being a Muslim. Hence what may be shocking to us as Muslims has a historical background to it. Its sad how our hate consumes us and blinds us to a decree higher than our petty differences.
The persians have an even older bone of contention to pick with Arabs (dating back to the times of Khulfa-e-Rashdeen), but thats a story for another time.
February 9th, 2008 at 1:36 pm
Assalaamu Alaikum Brothers and Sisters in Islaam,
Any Muslim that is worth his Deen should need no convincing to know and believe that Hijab in Islam is Mandatory (Please go in Surah Al Ahzab and read through). But alas! we have today found ourselves in so pathetic a situation that people argue over weither a woman should cover her body or not. Let me tell you, there are so many people today who bear islamic names but are indeed not Muslims. Therefore, let our families stand firm and defend our Deen because if we allow ourselves to succumb to the whims of those who want to transfer our societies to be like ones inhabited by Animals, Allaah will surely punish us in this world and the hereafter; besides, how long do we hope to live in this world.
Just pause for a while and think about the grave injustice you will inflict on our sisters by supporting the ban on Hijab.
Finally, Wallaahi, Wallaahi, Wallaahi Hijab is compulsory on every woman, hence, Muslims in Turkey should rise and defend their rights by whatever means possible; dont give the streotypes any chance.
February 9th, 2008 at 1:37 pm
Bismillah.
I have also closely followed the hijaab issue in secularised Turkey.
There is a large section of the so-called Muslim majority country that is absolutely misled, ignorant and to say the least, mischievous. I even read once that about 90% of Turks believe that a person can be a Muslim without praying 5 times a day, when the Hadith is very clear on this issue! Let us pray for their Hidaya back to the Faith.
May Allah protect the real Muslims of Turkey.
The rest, we leave them to Allah(swt).
Wa salaam.
February 9th, 2008 at 2:47 pm
There is no place in Islam for destruction of innocent lives. It is unislamic. Those in Islam and those not in Islam who enjoy this inhuman act will earn their meeds for their deeds.
Let me return to the topic. I can only say that the 20 million Muslims who object to Muslim women wearing the hijab in schools and universities have demonstrated profound ignorance. Can Islam be compartmentalized? Are all these people seriously accepting teachings in Islam that satisfy their desires and rejecting others that do not? Allah Ta’ala tells us in Quran that HE has created humans from a despicable fluid and now these same humans are opposing HIM. Man is indeed an ingrate unto his Lord.
Allah Ta’ala instructs in Quran in sura Nur verse 31 how the Muslim women should dress. Who now wants to tell the Muslim women how to dress? The West believes ardently in away of life called freedom and will even die to preserve it. The Quran has perfect guidance for mankind yet there are those who are working fervently to restrain freedom and decency. Have they no sense? Our sisters should be allowed the freedom to choose. They strongly desire to wear the hijab thus obeying their Rabb.
I think those “educated” folks objecting to the Muslim women wearing hijab and who think allowing the wearing of the hijab will open the way to leading Turkey’s universities away from rationality and reason are displaying gross irrationality and depletion of reasoning, for they are opposing their Creator. This is rebellion against ALLAH. If people wish to disobey the Creator they should be free to do so and those who wish to obey the Creator should also be free to do so.
Let the Muslim women be free to wear the hijab anywhere. Do those people think they have a share in the authority of their Lord?
May Allah grant us all increased guidance, wisdom and strength to be obedient?
February 9th, 2008 at 3:11 pm
Salaam to all,
In the Quran, Allaah 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].
If we want to judge strictly the matter of covering woman’s body and we have said it is correct to say that both men and women hold the same task in the general framework of Islamic hijab, the question comes: Why a woman alone bear the burden of covering her body and without man to do so?
The fact, which no fair-minded person can doubt, is that the reason for the specification of covering a woman’s body alone relates to her sentimental and physical qualities. Because the temptation side of woman is much stronger than a man; she has the competent side for sensibility; and she has instinctive tendencies for showing herself off. Thus, ornaments and beautification are among her first specifications. If they are unrestricted, she may cause, knowingly or unknowingly, and innocent person to commit a haram act, thought or deed. This natural characteristic of woman and which makes her more able to attract, tempt and fascinate man towards herself, is the main reason Islam tackles this point through hijab.
It is also clear that men and women are sexually stimulated in different ways. A woman, being a naturally sensitive and tender-hearted creature, requires touching and tactile movements in order to stimulate her. A man, on the other hand, is a much coarseer creature, tough and virile with a strong imagination. He can be stimulated by a mere look. A woman covers herself to keep from showing off her body and the man cannot see anything which will stimulate him sexually. How clever Islam is to adopt hijab in society!
Wa Salaam.
February 9th, 2008 at 3:59 pm
Allah’s peace and blessings on us all
The opitome of Islam is a woman in a hijab. She has become the international icon of the “them against us”. A sister in hijab bears the weight of the hatred of the world on her shoulders. In Muslim countries as well as the rest of the world , it is the males who make and enforce laws and wars. Is not “hijab” also for the brothers? What about the men I see wearing tight T-shirts and jeans , shorts and unbuttoned shirts? Are they the same as the ones judging their sister’s decision to wear or not wear a scarf on their head? It is a shame indeed that the men of our faith do not lift up and protect their women no matter where they are in their journey to Allah. Instead you treat us like all men treat women everywhere… as a tool for your own aspirations.
I pray Allah open all eyes and ears . Ameen
February 9th, 2008 at 5:37 pm
Hijab is not only for Muslim people but to Christians too, let the Bible speak:-
New testament:
1Corinthians 11:6
(6) If a woman does not cover her head,she should have her hair cut off; and if it is a digrace for a woman to have her hair cut or shaved off,she should cover her head.
February 9th, 2008 at 8:05 pm
pIt is quite interesting to read in the papers that a predominantly mulslim country like Turkey, would prevent its women from wearing hijab in universities. It is very difficult to understand it. If non-muslim countries such as the US and Britian do not prevent muslim women from wearing the hijab, then why on earth should a country like Turkey engage in such policy? What is Turkey afraid of?
Over the years, Turkey has been trying to join the European Union without much success. They try hard to portray Turkey as a secular state in order to gain the confidence of the west. They reason that, this would endear them towards the west and thus admit them into the European Union with its attendant economic advantages. They are gravely mistaken. After several years of political horse-trading and negotiations, they discovered that the Europeans are not ready to admit them into their economic union. This is why they have decided to re-tract their steps and move towards Islamic traditions which of course, includes the headscarf(hijab).
What exactly does Turkey stands to lose if they remain outside the european economic block? In my mind, nothing. Absolutely nothing. Is Japan part of European union? The answer is no. And is Japan not progressing economically? They are. They Asian tigers are doing quite well without belonging to the European union. Israel is not a member of the European union and they are doing well. Please help me tell Turkey to remain focussed and embrace what Allah bestowed on them. They should look inward and find ways of economic advancement without trying to impress the west by shying away from Islamic traditions which Allah Himself laid down.
It beats my imagination to understand why a decently covered muslim woman should be prevented from attending a university in a predominantly muslim country while scantily dressed and half-naked women are allowed complete freedom to roam around at will, within and outside the citadel of learning. This is the height of human right violation. When has it become a offence to dress decently? Why should muslim women be persecuted, just for the simple reason of adhering to the dictate of their faith? Come to think of it, this persecution is papetrated by their own government, because of material consideration (the desire to join the European Union) - what a shame!!
In as much as I do not favour islamic fundamentalism, I also do not favour the idea of pushing islamic injuctions and traditions to the back burners. It is better we obey Allah rather than obey the rule of men, all in the name of trying to belong to wordly economic blocks. I am happy that Turkey is beginning to come to terms with reason by making attempts at allowing the headscarf in campuses. Please, muslim women should be allowed to aspire to whatever height they desire, being it educational or economic. They should not be marginalised by reason of their beliefs. Enough is enough.
February 9th, 2008 at 8:25 pm
There was a time when Istanbul was the seat of the Uthmani Khilafah - it ruled the Muslim world with Islam. Now the Turks, unfortunately, are a bunch of nobody’s who are bowing to the west to be allowed into the EU. The only way they can gain their former glory is by going back to Islam and then they will be successful.
February 9th, 2008 at 8:45 pm
Subhanallah it is indeed sad that so many Muslims support the hijab ban. It is ironic that Turkey wants to pursue democratic and modern ideals yet they are pushing the ban on hijab like a police state would. As someone said earlier, there is a clear loss of identity here and that is where this problem is stemming from. And unfortunately it will not be the case that the elites wake up one day and see the errors of their ways. This will take a revolution on the part of all Muslims in the world intellectually to decipher what true Islam is and to rid of the extremes on both sides. Turkey has such an opportunity to be the Muslim light of the world in deen and dunya if it chooses to be. I pray that Allah makes this issue clear and gives our Muslim sisters there who want to wear hijab the right to do so without fear.
February 10th, 2008 at 3:52 am
S.A. Brothers and Sisters.
Firstly may Allah bear witness as to my intentions. May those same intentions be pure and good.
The Turkish parliament has voted yesterday, quite convincingly (approx 411 vs 103 who wanted to keep the ban), to lift the veil ban on tertiary education and legislate equality for all Turkish people in the ‘eyes of the public servants’. Allah has given people another mercy as this is now virtually new legislation. The teachings of our Prophet and the will of Allah have provided support to
teh Turkish people, whose representatives have braved ridicule and enormous pressure to undo teh silly ban. We cannot rest however, as the people who want the ban are still there, and are angry. Let’s remain calm, and kind to these people and hope that their ignorance will not cripple their behaviour.
Secondly, Regardless of history, and my background is Turkish, we (the current Arabs and Turks , etc), are not responsible for the actions of our forefathers. We do not have to replicate them. I therefore do not share the views of many Turks that Arabs are bad.
Arabs, like Turks, have the Quran and Sunnah to guide them. Their history should not guide them (as in WW1 between Turks and Arabs/Allies), to maintain hatred. We should all remember, that Allah created all of us, as equal before Him, and we have our own actions to account for.
I stand side by side with Arabs, Turks, Indonesians, Japanese, Himalayan Alpesian’s, Americans, British, Bosnians, Serbs, as long as they say and behave like they are sincere in their belief in Allah and the way of our prophet (SAWS).
This debate therefore is not about Arab vs Turk. I stand together with sincere Muslims, regardless of which nationalistic bias. Islam allows for these picket fences made of wood to be broken down in brotherhood and sisterhood.
The main issue, again I will repeat, is that our sisters should be able to follow Islam as they understand it. They should be allowed to wear the veil, the politicians are representing us, and should not curtail this freedom. A veil wearer is not a thief or necessarily mischievously and the common laws that bind all people should not prevent them from wearing the veil.
Brothers and Sisters of all nations, lets rid ourselves of ignorance and hold hands in support of each other.
let us also not forget that Muslim or nonMuslim, we have a duty to our neighbour to support them also. The world is fast becoming our near neighbour thanks to the ease of telecommunications and travel, so we are all neighbours. Islam is here to guide our society to peace and stability, so take it easy on each other. Sometimes we must remember history, other times it is a ball and chain, lets have the wisdom to use history as a good tool.
As a muslim Turkish Australian, I love my fellow muslim and non-muslim whomever they may be.
However, the scarf ban has not done anyone a favour.
WSLM
February 10th, 2008 at 4:55 am
It is indeed great to learn that Turkey has now lifted the ban on Hijab. It is Allah’s law and whoever does not comply with it may have to face HIS verdict. It is everyone’s duty just to remind women of Allah’s law on Hijab and leave it to individual’s choice.
February 10th, 2008 at 7:59 am
I think that the issue of hijab has been stained by the western perception of the gender relationship in the Arab world. Male domination, in certain regions of the Middle East, has often led to a bullying of women and forcing them into wearing something they don’t desire to wear (i.e., the black robe) and enforcing strict rules as far as freedom of movement. Hence, hijab is perceived by the west as a symbol of a male dominated society. The ban on hijab by countries like Turkey, Tunisia, and others is often conducted by feminist movements, who want to usher in a new era of emancipation of women, therefore not bound by male misinterpretation of the Quran and Sunnah. I think that ultimately, it is up to women to decide to wear or not to wear hijab, and no government should ever have to rule out anything less than the very laws enforcing such a freedom.
February 10th, 2008 at 9:05 am
those that support ban on hijab are non-muslims whatever their name may be. so muslims must protect their religion at all costs. i hope Allah will give us the courage.
February 10th, 2008 at 9:21 am
Assalam alaikum,
I really have a problem with this.. Is not Turkey an Islamic state??? There should never be a ban on a women covering herself as prescibed in Islamic law. I am an American and I find this ban to be disrepectful…. Is this a ploy to stop good muslim women from getting a good education?
If these women don’t want to be covered that is an indiviual choice. But to force the women to uncover is ridiculous!!!
February 10th, 2008 at 10:55 am
I am a women and i’m wearing a veil/hijab proudly. I hope all of you, sisters will be proud also by wearing hijab/veil, because this is one of our identities, besides a must from our Creator, Allah SWT.
February 10th, 2008 at 12:44 pm
Hijab is part & percel of Islam. No one can ban it because it is out of their judgment.
There is no option for men (specially Muslms) being Secular in their thoughts,Ideas &
his works. In Islam, Sovereignty is allowed only for Almighty Allah. He(Allah) can
give us the rules in every sphere of life and the man must follow it.
February 10th, 2008 at 3:47 pm
A salaam wa alaikum wa rahmutullah wa barakatuh
I find it ironic that a muslim country like Turkey has been trying to enforce a ban on hijab when countries like England(part of the EU) is making it easier for muslims women to have freedom in their religion. I have lived and worked in England for the past 9 years and I have noticed each year ,alhumdullilah, it is getting easier and easier to be a muslimah. Our sisters can be seen everywhere, at work, on the bus in the streets etc in in all forms of hijab—from a simple headscarf to full cover of niqab that covers the whole face! Subhan Allah! The Christian countries are setting examples for muslims to follow -when it should be the other way around! The current situation did not come about without it trials for muslim women- but by standing by our religion and having faith in Allah subhan wa t’aala; this change has occurred. In London hospitals there are prayer rooms for muslims,as well as, people of other faiths, to use. In the hospital where I work , there is a washroom adapted for muslims to do wudu before they pray! There are halal menus for muslim patients. This is all in a non-muslim country. If Turkey wants to be part of the EU, they have to respect their citizens basic human rights and allow them their freedom :to worship,dress ,speech etc. But most importantly of all, Turkey should know that if Allah has decreed something, no matter what they do-no man, woman,nation or even the whole universe together can stop His decree! Is it not better to follow the Quran and the Sunnah when making decisions, and trust in Allah(SWA) in all matters????
May Allah subhan wa t’aala guide us all and keep us in the stright Path. Ameen.
February 10th, 2008 at 5:46 pm
Allah/God/Lord/The Creator , created humanity with the right of personal choice, i think all humanity needs to be reminded of this. especailly governments. Our rights have been stolen from us; humans, from matters of indifference insecurities and fear of other as well for power/control, and money. i want MY choice back!
salam alakum
malaak-jayne@hotmail.com
February 10th, 2008 at 6:08 pm
Now that it is realised that injustice has been done by the ban, then now is the time to allow the use of hijab to whoever wish to wear it. As secular as Nigeria is jilbab is permisible in all human endevours (hosp., schools, banks, etc).
February 10th, 2008 at 6:17 pm
Alhamdu lillah, Allah Is Great and merciful,
The word of Allah has to dominate one day!
Wasaalam,
Captain Nasir
February 10th, 2008 at 6:29 pm
Assalamu Alaikum Wa Rahmatulla
It is very disturbing that Turkey, which was the base of Islamic Khilafat and torch bearer of Islamic Laws, can be that much against the Islamic Laws and basic freedom of Muslim women. I am living in the United States of America for last 37 years with my family. Muslim ladies and girls in schools and universities are not only wearing hijab but are well protected by local laws and well respected by local population.
Greatness of a nation is in recognizing the human rights, freedom of religion and citizen’s freedom of choice and not in putting bans in the name of secularism. USA is the sole super power today and greatest nation on earth in the area of secularism. This is great nation because it has not put any restriction on freedom of religion and individual’s freedom of choice.
I could never understand why Turkey is so desperate to be in European Union that they want to sacrifice their own religion for that? Those people who have no respect to their own values will not have respect in the sight of others. Those who curb the rights of their own people cannot be trusted to defend the rights of others.
There is no such thing like Secular Islam. Islam is one and only and that is to follow Qur’an and Sunnah without question “sam’ana wa ata’na” and if one cannot do that then one should consider himself/herself a non-Muslim.
I fully agree and appreciate comments from sister Zalaka from England.
May Allah Subhanahu Wa T’aala guide us and Muslim Governments all over the world. Ameen.
February 10th, 2008 at 11:07 pm
Salam to you all and this is very well written. I believe some in Turkey have exchanged the akhira for the dunya and quite forgotten what we are here for, i just dont think there is any excuse for banning hijab in schools and how are they going to stand up to Allah Subhanahu Wa T’aala on the day of judgement!!
I would just like to say Islam is such a simple religon yet people make it so complicated whether its though ignorance or ones own/or collective desire. Its quite simple the Hijab is a must for muslims as we are all submitting our will to Allah Subhanahu wa T’aala in addition giving Dawa and letting pepole know who we are and what we represent which is an obligation on us all to pass the message. Yes there is a bad image of islam, which has been a collective undertaking on the part of our own brothers and sisters(who are either not practising or practising incorrectly), media, political agenda, etc etc… So it is our duty as muslims to generate positive images of islam, give dawa and dispell all false or misunderstood issues to muslims and non muslims a like.
May Allah Subhanahu Wa T’aala make it easy on us all to do this Ameen.
February 11th, 2008 at 2:34 am
Assalamualaikum,
If we leave the Islamic regulations out of it, those who are opposed to the hijab would still be wrong on all other fronts, be it human rights’ , freedom of expression and faith, etc. If they are truly afraid that lifting a ban on the hijab will turn Turkey into an ‘Islamist’ state, then what they should do is some real research into various countries who allow the freedom of observing the Al-Quran and Sunnah (which includes wearing the hijab), have a majority Muslim population but is not an ‘Islamist’ state, or backward in any way. Malaysia is one such example, Brunei another.
It is unfortunate that much of the views on the Hijab is encouraged and may be even propagated by Muslims. I know from personal experiences that in my country there are movements by ‘forward-thinking’ groups who want to ‘liberate’ Muslim women by focusing on the Hijab issue when the topic about improving the lot of the Muslims arise. Would it not be more ‘liberating’ for these women if these groups focused on education, eradicating poverty, etc? Many of the arguments that are used to defend their take on not wearing their Hijab is thin, and I think arises from projection from individuals that do not want to wear it themselves. Any Muslim woman who does not want to wear the hijab is completely her own choice, bearing in mind that (as many verses in the Quran states, each individual is responsible for his/her own actions) we will need to face our Creator in the next world. However, it does become a nuisance when due to them imposing their views on others, the issue becomes politicised, our focus shifts from other more pressing issues with our Ummah and worse, impressionable young Muslims who may not be so strong (yet) in the true teachings of the Quran and Sunnah are swayed.
I think that it is our collective responsibilities to educate anyone whom we meet that there is no link whatsoever between the Hijab and ‘backwardness’, extremism, etc. We do this not only by words but also by our actions; showing others that Muslims are polite, respectful, give the best in our jobs or studies, etc. In the context of this discussion, this is particularly important for us Muslimah sisters who do wear the Hijab; we really need to project the image of proper conduct whilst striving to improve ourselves in every way, be it education, our work, household management, etc.
Finally, only Allah SWT can enlighten those who are for the ban on the Hijab. In my humble opinion, we should also do regular duas for PM Erdogan and those who are struggling to rectify this injustice. May Allah ease their path, may they be successful and Insya’allah may they receive the rewards of Allah in the Hereafter.
February 11th, 2008 at 9:45 am
Assalamu alaikum ya ahlul baitul iman One thing is truely certain that muslims are now fighting their own sisters.Turkey is the black sheep in the muslim world. I wear the veil and I’m happy with it.Let the Turkish people know that Hijab is compulsory on every mature muslim woman and instead of encouraging them to wear it they are discouraging them. let them know that on the day of judgement they will be held accoutable for it before the supreme LORD of the world.
February 11th, 2008 at 11:05 am
Salam.
The turkish government have done the right thing. Because Islam is a complete way of life, and as muslims we are not allowed to accept some part of its ruling and reject some. Because of the wish of the Turkish people to join the EU, they should not trow away ALLAH’s command. Because prohibiting the turkish women the right to wear hijab which is ALLAH command is as like asking them not to pray.
February 11th, 2008 at 12:53 pm
working in Saudi Arabia has made me realise that if we want to follow, none of Islamic commandments are obstructive to progress. Even higher education can be achieved while practicing hijab.
Being an Indian I can assure you that Hindus of my country i.e. India respect me more when they see me as an educated lady in hijab. While muslims of India indulge in passing sarcastic remarks on me.
Coming back to Turkey there is no ban on prostitution, but hijab is banned; what an atrocity?
May Allah guide human beings aright.
February 11th, 2008 at 4:47 pm
As-Salaam-u-Alaikum
I think this is total discrimination. A person should be given freedom of religion, belief, and thought inshallah!
wasalaam
February 11th, 2008 at 10:16 pm
As-Salaam-u-Alaikum
How discouraging to know that secular Turkey, a predominantly Muslim country, is up against the veil if ever its true. Islamic scholarship abound in Turkey up to now . The framers of the laws should revisit their being a secular state without prejudice to Islam
I just want to share our case in the Philippines , a predominantly Catholic country were we are free to wear the veil everywhere. There is
no restriction! Of the 80 million Filipinos, only 3 million are Muslims ,
Wasalaam
February 12th, 2008 at 6:59 am
It is my personal opinion about Hijab, that what has been written in Quran is eternal and fact.
Remaining all on the name of moderinization is false. So being muslims, we and our females must follow what has written in the holly Quran.
Khalid
February 12th, 2008 at 4:12 pm
This is pure injustice and a complete violation of human rights to ban the use hijab the pride of muslim women and Allah’s commandment.
May Allah lift the veil of ignorance from the face of turkish anti hijab movement.
February 12th, 2008 at 5:10 pm
Salaam alekun,to start with hijab is any object that conceals a muslim woman such as wall, a door or clothes.The wearing of hijab should be seen as a religious duty and not a local customs even for non muslims, moreover no compulsion in religion, the muslim sister should not be persuaded or tempted by media that opposes the hijab or belittles it’s significance,as those who spread this only desire evil for islam.
Ma salaam
February 12th, 2008 at 5:18 pm
ASSALAMU ALEIKUM WERAHMETULAHI WEBEREKATUHU
Amazing !!!!
How come in a country of 99% who is claiming to be Muslims such argument occurs. The funny thing
is when one goverment (for ex Saudi) declares muslim women should wear hijab according to the sheria law
every body (not saudi nationalities) being other nationalities, say it is aginst women’s will . And when
Turkey women wants to wear Hijab, the so called “concerned secularists” say it is against the secular society
of TURKEY ,this time the right of the women never considered. Pls poeple don’t interfere with the right of
muslims and we don’t want to interfere with your life…
February 12th, 2008 at 7:45 pm
What?.. Turkey is a Muslim country… I can’t believe that!!!…. The Hijab…. one of the most essential part of our religion has been banned in a MUSLIM COUNTRY ???… I guess those Muslims are just name sake Muslims…. who go against Hijab… its an individuals wish whether or not to cover her hair or not…. I, living in Saudi Arabia.. go with my Hijab to India… where most of the people living around me are Muslims…. do not face any problems… although some MUSLIMS do ask me odd questions… but I really can’t imagine HIJAB being banned in a country where 99% of the people are Muslims….
I HOPE ALLAH GUIDES ALL OF US TO THE RIGHT PATH AND OPEN OUR EYES FOR GOOD….
February 13th, 2008 at 12:19 pm
It is very unfortunate that Muslims are the one spearheading ban on hijab in Turkey. I watch these on CNN with constellation. Banning hijab is against fundamental human right in itself and also against islamic dressing mode.
Going by the word of Rasul (SAW) during the his last sermon that his religion will split into 73 sects and only one will enter paradise.
As we can clearly see that Muslims are drifting away from the tenets of Islam by the day.
My prayer is that May Allah forgives those who supported the ban. But for them there is still time to repent.
February 14th, 2008 at 12:01 pm
Salam,
What exactly did the Turkish government set out to achieve by banning the headscarf in the first place? To satisfy the yearnings of their Western benefactors? Otherwise I do not see the wisdom in denying free citizens of their rights to cover what they treasure, moreso when it is clearly spelt out in the Quran, as an injuction of Allah.
February 15th, 2008 at 2:24 am
Assalaamu Alaikum wa Rahmatullahi wa Barakatuh to all Muslims. I am a revert Muslim since May of 2006. Aside from the fact that it is a command of Allah (swt) through the qur’an , another reason why Muslim women are required to cover their hair is for security.
Another thing, we have as much right to cover ourselves as those women who has the right to expose their bodies in public. Why are we prohibited to cover our auras and yet those who wear clothings revealing their flesh are not.
May Allah forgive us for revealing our flesh.
February 15th, 2008 at 2:48 am
hijab is the best thing in this fast world which can save the woman
February 15th, 2008 at 2:53 am
SHAME ON YOU 103 who wants to keep the ban on hijab. You must be out of the government and go back to school. Are you muslims? I DOUBT.
February 15th, 2008 at 2:59 am
to my sisters in Turkey, fear not the law of men if it contradicts the law of Allah.
February 15th, 2008 at 6:54 am
I am writing this mail from Turkey. I am Turkish but am a muslim. Everybody thinks that some muslims in turkey support the ban of hijab. But it is not the trueth at all. Because those who are against it are completely not believers not the muslims.
Don’t think many people in Turkey support the ban. Just a small portion of the population. For example in turkish parliament 450 ministers cast their vote in favour and some 50 support the ban. The non believers make all the chaos, not the muslims.
In Addition, there is not such a person as a secular muslim in Turkey. You are either a muslim or not. If you are muslim then you aren’t secular. I am a muslim and nobody can name me as a secular muslim. I am just a muslim. not a secular.
February 17th, 2008 at 5:11 pm
Assalam alaikum… I ve also heard non-muslims and sometimes even muslims considering Hijab as a restriction to the freedom of women. But i would like to stress upon the words of Zakir Naik that men and women are equal but not identical. Hence the ideology of Hijab is the best security to a woman and a safe vision for men. Islam is for everyone. One who practices Hijab shall earn reward and the one who doesn’t shall be punished. The person itself is responsible for their deeds. So why decide the fate of anyone by banning Hijab. Let them free to practice Islam…… I strongly object the ban on Hijab
February 19th, 2008 at 10:54 am
Assalaam Alaikum. Are these secularists really aware of what they are getting into or are they just mad people trying to mingle with the word of ALLAH SWT. There are very clear instructions in THE HOLY QURAN as to why and where a woman should wear hijab. Do these secularist know whats going on in the non islamic states??? let me answer tha question for them. Heavy rape, high rate of prostitution, murder and it is endless. Do you want to put our Muslim sisters through all these dirt and filth.Definetly not. Muslim men open your eyes read nd understand the word of ALLAH SWT before it is too late
February 25th, 2008 at 10:53 am
Im visiting India at the moment and it seems like people look at a woman wearing the hijab,
I wear it and my family (by marriage) have noticed that everyone stares.
So being explicit and not leaving anything to the imagination, is not as attractive as wearing the Hijab.
I feel special wearing the hijab, and im far from beautiful, goodness im even far from pretty.
thanks
Dr. FF
February 26th, 2008 at 10:18 pm
Turkey is trying to run away from its Islamic identity. I know Sufi Muslims who follow the path of a Cypriot sheykh and although they are good Muslims, everything revolves around learning the Turkish language and other than salutations and (?) salat in Arabic, they read the Qu’ran in Turkish and speak Turkish, and these are people who are white Americans, Indians, Bangledeshi’s, Afghanis, etc… I think only the Sheykh and 2 others in this Muslim community here in the US are even Turkish.
March 6th, 2008 at 3:24 pm
Assalaamualaikum
Wait,doesn’t “secular” mean that one should be given freedom to follow the principles of a religion or not to follow any?At least,thats what the Indian Constitution says.
Shouldn’t women be free to wear the hijab if they want to?Isn’t stopping somebody from wearing the hijab,i.e following their religion,against secularism?
March 23rd, 2008 at 2:02 pm
Muslim Women everywhere in the world should be allowed to freely exercise their religeous rites. We pray to Allah to help Turkey leaders that want to run the country Islamically. God will inshaAllah purnish those against them!
April 14th, 2008 at 12:40 pm
Assalam allaikum wa ramatullah ta alla wa barakatuhu. ISLAM is a complete religion that that does not need any reformation and it is rather unfortunate that some of our sisters and brothers want to change IT’S rules and laws.My advice to them is that they should go back to the QURAN AND HADITH and read THEM further.They shouldn’t be enmies of ISLAM but propagators of ISLAM. Thank you.
April 16th, 2008 at 3:05 pm
It is very troubling to see how people are so easily deviated even if there is a perfect guide,which is the Quran and Hadith; on how to lead life in the World. I don’t know why some Muslims think that wearing hijab is a sign of weakness for women.
I first wore my hijab when I enter University. Even then my mother and sisters was against it. My decision to keep my hijab is because of my new found fear of God. I am fear of commiting zina. I never regret doing it because because of that act, not only I can practise being a better muslim…people (men) respect me more and do not take advantage of my purity of faith…and I was blessed with a religious husband shortly and now i am a mother of two. This teaches me that good things comes from doing good.insyallah.
April 17th, 2008 at 1:41 am
The time is up for seculairism anywhere.
This time: Islam is on the rise everywhere!
Like it or dislike it.
That is the Future and Destiny of Islam.
Allahu Akbar.