French Dressing
"I wanted to go to school, but I wanted to obey my religion, too" says Cennet |
Fifteen-year-old Muslim Cennet Doganay beat France's ban on Islamic headscarves in school - by shaving her head.
When I look in the mirror before I go to school, I hardly recognize myself. Some mornings I even say, "Wait-who is that bald girl?" It's a a very strange sensation.
Truthfully? It's brutal. My family and I are French Muslims. There are about five million Muslims here in France, a little less than ten percent of the population, and Islam is the second largest religion in the country. My parents are originally from Turkey, but they both moved to France when they were almost fifteen, my age now. My five brothers and I were all born in the eastern French city of Strasbourg, where we still live. At home, it's a mix of French, Muslim, and Turkish culture: I speak French to my parents, I pray in the mosque with my mother, we go to Turkey for summer vacation. We are a religious family; we believe in Allah.
Islamic tradition states that a woman's hair should never be visible in public. The hair is a symbol of sex and sensuality, and in our religion it's considered improper to reveal or flaunt it before men. My mother and I wear headscarves, called hijabs, when we go out. The only time we remove them is when we are at home with our closest family. But on September 1 of last year, things changed for many Muslims in France. The government put a law into effect forbidding all religious signs inside public schools including the wearing of headscarves.
France is what you call a secular country. Since 1905, French law has required a complete separation between church and state, which for the most part is a good idea, as it prohibits any preaching in school and helps ease religious tensions. The new ban is designed to uphold this idea of separation, but I feel the government has gone way too far. We're not allowed to show any religious affiliation at all, and for some of us, our religion is a huge part of who we are. We're not trying to convert anyone or imply that our religion is better than any other; we're just trying to be ourselves.
Cennet at home in Strasbourg, France |
This new law broke my heart: I was asked to choose between my religion and my studies, between being myself and having a future. Why would the government do that?
The first day back at school after the ban went into effect was a horrible day. It took me an hour to get dressed. I knew I couldn't wear a headscarf, so I chose to wear a large beret, sort of like a reggae singer's hat. I felt like I was dishonoring my religion, but it seemed to be a good compromise. The principal didn't think so. She forbade me to attend classes while wearing my beret, "because of the new law," she said. So I was sent to a separate room, without anything to do.
The same thing happened the next day, and the next. I Was in quarantine, as if my piety were contagious. Some of my Muslim classmates complied because they felt they had to, and others left school completely. Every morning, the principal sat me down and told me I was wrong. She threatened me with disciplinary hearings or expulsion if I did not take off the beret. I was an outlaw, she said. I replied that only very obvious religious signs were banned by the law. I was just wearing a hat, after all. But she wouldn't listen.
I wanted to go to school, but I wanted to obey my religion, too. All I knew was that
I couldn't show my hair in public. The decision was difficult, but my only option. On September 5, I shaved my entire head of long brown hair. I was bald!
Shaving my head was the most powerful thing I've ever done. It was like transforming myself. I felt I grew up more on that day than I had in all the years before. I wanted to do it alone, but I couldn't reach some spots in the back. I wandered into the kitchen with my head half-shaved and asked my mother for help. She burst into surprised tears and couldn't. My dad came to help. I could tell it was painful for him to see what I'd done.
Even after I shaved my head, I wore a hat to school. I was self-conscious, and nervous about making such a big statement. I continued to spend day after day alone in an empty room, until October 1, when I finally worked up the courage to come to school without my hat. For the first time, I displayed my bald head to everyone. The students were very supportive-they actually cheered!-but the teachers were furious. They took it as an act of defiance, rather than seeing it as a girl doing whatever it takes to obey the law without sacrificing her beliefs. The way I see it, I am doing wrong by neither the government nor my religion, and I'm happy about that.
Unfortunately, there's been some backlash. My parents have always supported me-they never forced me to wear a headscarf, and they never would have thought to suggest that I shave off my hair. Every decision was my own. Still, the bosses at the factory where my father had been a truck driver seemed embarrassed by the publicity surrounding me. I think they started looking for any reason to fire him, and they eventually did. He's hurting now because of me, and that's so hard for me to bear.
Some teachers at my school say I have no future wearing a headscarf-that eventually, France is going to ban them everywhere-but I'll show them wrong. My headscarf is my dignity, not just a piece of fabric. It's me. It's the centerpiece of my outfit, the first item I pick out of my closet in the morning. My pants or sweater must match the scarf. I favor plain colors-no flowers or bold patterns of any kind-and right now, I like my purple one best.
I'll be bald until the school year ends. I shave my head once a week, in my parents' bathroom. My youngest brother, Hasan, who's only two years old, doesn't like my bald head. He says, "I want to play with your hair. Yuck, you look ugly." But I just ignore him. I don't mind how I look-though maybe I'll let my hair grow a little over the summer.
As told to Helene Fouquet of TeenVogue
Topics: Hijab (Head Cover), Veil (Burqa) Values: Education
Views: 20623
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o my my!
very good decision ,we need ppl like u seriously i appreciate what ever u did.
this shows how ur sincere to u r Allah!
one thing more,and that is avoid wearing jeans,tight clothes becz its also forbidden in Islam.Try to find alternative like wearing long shirts,,,,if it's school uniform then i guess do compromise..
do mail me !back
take care
Allah Hafiz
Ameeeeen
It's a very bold step, which this sister in Islam took. May Allah S.W.T. bless us all with strong Imaan ~ Aameen!
Zaki
Please do not confuse scarf with just hiding your hair. It is covering your head. It is a part of female respect & dignity. How can you achieve it with a bald head. I am sorry sister, you made not one but various mistakes.
1. Shaving your head is not allowed to females.
2. As being only 15 and dependent on your parents, you are bound to consult them and get their permission before making big decisions that leave a huge impact on their lives too.
3. Where is the religion and respect now when your bald pictures are available to everyone on internet.
4. Your this step is just another attack on Islam. It is a wrong projection. Islam never wants a female to shave her head only because she is not allowed to wear a scarf. Both things are equally wrong. I don't see any difference between you and the French Govt. now.
5. You have selected a very wrong way of fighting for your rights. Please study some Islam and you will know that how many ways you have been provided to fight for your rights without humiliating yourself.
May Allah bless us all and help us in understanding and following Islam.
Ma shaa allah I am sooooooo proud of you. Your are an excellent example that we all should always remember to do the right thing regardless of anything else...may allah reward you inshaa allah.
alhamdulillah. shes done a good deed.
Alhumdulilah Im proud of that sister! May ALLAH(swt) reward her for her efforts towards him and Islam. Insha'Allah she will show France what real Courage means. Ameen...
I perfectly understand where the sister comes from for I have seen this happen and is still happening in my country muslim of origin :( to so many girls and women around me where they had to chose between Islam or harassment and even prison for some. However, going out head shaved does not obey ti Islam either as the purpose is not to defy people and make a point to the world about it but rather dress modestly to Allah and our beloved Prophete Muhammad s.a.w. obedience. There are so many other alternatives: e.g. go to a private school and ask for other muslim support to afford it if money is needed, immigrate to a different country or work on gaining support around for the right to wear it until get it. Wal'Allah aalam wa' Allah al mus'taan. Wassalam.
I disagree with this muslimah. She failed to understand what the islamic dresscode is all about. It's NOT Just about covering your hair, it's about govering the entire body, some only leaving out the face and hands.
Going out in publich with shaved hair??? What's the point, u are still not dressed as a muslimah should be dressed.
May Allah give us strength to be strong in the face of what's happening and guide us onto Him.Amiin
And I pray that someone teaches this poor muslimah about the islamic dressecode for women.
Wa salaam and khayr insha allah.
Make hijrah when ur Relgion is threatened and u can't practise it. The choice must always be ISLAM over anything.
I personally would rather live a life without education and maybe ending up poor than disobeying my Creator.
We as muslims should rememeber that:
The Prophet(saw) Said: "The world is a prison for the believers and paradise for the disbelievers".
(Muslim)
Wa salaam
....ALLAH SAID , YOU WILL NOT HAVE SUCCESS UNTIL YOU GIVE AWAY(TO ALLAH) WHAT YOU WANT MOST.
AND THERE IS NOT A DAY THAT ALLAH WILL NOT TEST HOW LOYAL WE ARE TO HIM...IF THE COMPANIONS DIED TO HELP THE DEEN OF ALLAH WILL WE NOT SACRIFICE A THING THAT CANNOT GIVE US NOTHING IN THE GRAVE OR THE HEREAFTER?
INDEED THE GREATEST WEAKNESS OF THIS UMMAH IS THE LOVE OF THIS WORLD.
ABU DAHDAH(NOT TALKIN BOUT ABU DARDA)HE WAS A COMPANION HAVIN A GARDEN OF DATE PALMS OF BOUT 6 HUNDRED TREES.....WHEN ALLAH MENTION BOUT GIVING LOAN TO HIM (ALLAH)(CHARITY IN THE PATH OF ALLAH) AND HE WILL DOUBLE THE REWARD IN THE DAY OF KIYAMAT.
HE WENT TO HIS GARDEN AND TOLD HIS FAMILY TO MOVE TO ANOTHER LOCATION ...AND HE GAVE THE WHOLE GARDEN TO THE MESSENGER OF ALLAH AS CHARITY....THEN ALLAHS MESSENGER SAID ...HOW MANY A CLUSTER OF DATE PALMS FOR ABU DAHDAH IN JANNAT...WAITING FOR HIM.
OH MY DEAR SISTER WE MUSLIMS WERE TAUGHT BY ALLAH TO HOLD ON TO HIS COMMANDMENT THROUGH THICK AND TIN....IT WAS NEVER MEANT TO BE EASY... AND ALLAH IS WITH THE PATIENT.
GOING TO SCHOOL HAS MANY BENEFITS.....BUT WE WERE NEVER TAUGHT TO SACRIFICE DUNYA FOR AKHIRA.
AND HAD IT BEEN U WERE PATIENT ALLAH WOULD HAVE HELPED U.
ALLAHS MESSENGER SAID ALLAHS HELP IS WAJIB UPON 3 PEOPLE, AND ONE OF THEM IS SOMEONE WHO DOESNT HAVE THE MEANS TO MARRY BUT GOT MARRIED FOR FEAR OF ADULTRY...SO LIKE WISE IF U HAD KEPT YOUR HIJAB AND LOSE YOUR SCHOOL ARE U TELLING ME THAT ALLAH WILL NOT HELP U IN YOUR FUTURE?
ALLAH IS EVER BOUNTIFUL TO HIS RIGHTEOUS SERVANTS.
I ADVICE U TO FEAR ALLAH AND TAKE YOUR HIJAB.
THE PUNISHMENT OF THE GRAVE IS MORE SEVERE THAN ...THE SUFFERING OF THIS WORTHLESS DUNYA.
MAY ALLAH OPEN YOUR HEART.
And Allah will bless her for her deed because She thought good....
:)
u are even younger to my younger sisters but u are such a darling...
this is not only an act of extreme courage and dignity but also of wisdom and piety.
ALLAH's orders are clear and this life is too uncertain to care for material losses and gains...
ur father's job is nothing...dont consider it a loss.
i will be eternally obliged to do anything for u.
anything...!!!(i know wat im saying!)
i would have loved to give my detail contacts here but it would be appropriate if u mailed me.
rest assured that...u are most valued and much respected...i cant say in words wat ur act has done on my heart...
many many facilitations to ur blessed parents who have given u such morals and such convictions and such character.
our hands are raised infront of ALLAH's to you and your family...plz plz plz...consider me at ur persoanl service for wat so ever big or small, anything...! is my pleasure!
lots of respects my beloved sister!
long live turkey!
My dear sister, Allah will bless you far more than you can imagine. It takes a strong will to stand up for what you truely believe. And that is what Allah looks for in all of us. You are what Prophet Mohammad (PBUH) prayed for when he came to teach Islam to the Muslim. Never fear what man has for you, as long as you are always in the ways of Allah.
Stay Humble....
Peace out!
Siter its an amazing sign of courage and we all muslims support u for this. we can understand the feelings of confusion and self-confidence in you.
so keep ur Imaan firm as this is the sign of ur self esteem.
DearCennet, I salute you for your bravery but I do pity your situation in your country. Always be patient & remember Allah is with you.
You go girl!! Bravo! I admire you for your conviction and courage. Allah knows your true intention and He knows the scarifices you have made for His Sake. I hope your family too will not be discouraged and i pray that He will provide for your family with greater blessings even though others try to force you against your belief and even make your father lose his job. They are cowards and tyrants and they will have their dues accordingly. I had always thought highly of your country but for what they did to the innocents like you and your family, I find they are even more shallow minded than the less developed countries. Remember there is no power or might except by His Will.
you such a muslim on for islam to do that is really a hot hot talk on courage. GOD will really ragard you .i really appreiciate you honour you
my prayer s are always with you.thanks for realizing me that there are such muslims in France.GOD bless YOU
anyways..all we could do is pray to Allah and be a TRUE muslim..
Wa Salaam
May Allah bless you!!! Don't worry much and don't take it as a big problem.Infact Allah loves you!!!
What I want to suggest with what you decide first ask Ulama (scholars) you will get answers from them based on Hadith.You are required to do PATIENCE! If anyone comes against ur religion and you stand firm on it ALLAH will take you out of the difficulties.Like Prophet Mohammed (P.B.U.H) said to one "PATIENCE PATIENCE BECAUSE IT IS A HEAVEN"!!! Most important don't give up and DO DUA'S as much as you can to Allah.I am sure you will win your diginity just don't do any decision without knownlodge thanks to our Scholars they will tell us what to do based on Shari'a.I hope I have passed the right word..May Allah show us the straight path!!!May Allah be with you!!!Ameen
I am not sure whether erasing here by young girl surves the purpose. Because, to me Islam prohibits female from erasing hairs from head.
But I must appreciate the girl for her firm belief on her faith and for her courage.
The girl reaction might not serve the purpose at he moment but will produce long term efeects on policy makers who disregard human rights and faith freedom. It is also a benchmark for other muslim to stay stick on their faith.
Allah bless the lady for her firm faith.
Allah hafis
Salam
On the other hand all the so called leaders of islamic world and NGOs must be ashamed off. Thay are simply Malign.
i believe u have full right to observe what you want to do...
France has a bad religeous history so they have trouble accepting you...
i can understand the struggles muslims in france are going through...n im totally against it...but my advice is to either leave the country or stay and face the hardships with bravery and identity...do not let them over rule you!!
I am very sad to hear about the new rule in a secular country named "France". I fully support your views and decisions. You are a very brave girl and Allah will help you, inshallah. May Allah give some good sense to people who made such strange laws.
Assalaamu'alaikum W.W.B.
After reading the article, I am but amused yet regrettable to see that such action was taken by a fifteen year old.
In support of your action though, it is such a sacrifice. But over here in little Singapore, we do not go to such extent. IMO, it is your right to do as you think best, but seek advice from those that know, before and after. Reflect.
IMHO, the community is as important as the personal action. There must be a balance. Your Imam must have adviced you and if he has not, do go and seek advice. Knowledge is Power.
What I have learnt is this, (this is my own opinion and not an advice for I am not able), the womenfolk are to cover their hair and heads till it reach the breast. This means they should not have the silouette of their body shown. One should not make oneself ugly as God loves beauty. And seek knowledge (secular or spiritual). Then there is the essence of Hijrah.
So my opinion is my right to express but in doing so I must take responsibility that it does not, in any way cause harm (physically, emotionally, environmentally or spiritually). Please forgive me if it makes others uncomfortable and to the editor, please remove it when it does. Thank you.
Wallahu-alambissawab.
The support many readers are giving is fine with me. However, someone wrote: "For a Muslim girl not using a scarf as per her book ,means severe punishment on the day of judgment" (Javed). I don't agree at all.
Let's rememeber that using the hijab is not fundamental part of our religion, it is a cultural practice instead. It is more part of the arabic culture. There is no a single word in the Holy Qur'an that says it has to be this way. Modesty in clothing, yes. Why to immitate the arabic style?
So, beyond the fact that this young lady in France has done something valuable (subjective, according to her understanding of religion, I wont judge that at all), I might say that there is no reason to put the head scarf in the highest position some Muslim br. and sis do. It is an exageration of islamic practices, and has no substantial base. A Muslim sister has the choice to wear it, yes, but is stylish to arabs. There are other cutures in Islam...
Why making a big fight for this? Eventually, the hijab has become a "flag" that is used, more or less conciously, to protest to abuses from secular western countries, with an islamic form...
And of course, we agree that France has exagerated this bannig to this extreme. Probably under the right wing that opposes to imigration, particularly Muslim.
So, yes, what this girl has done is brave (cutting her hair is to me way axagerated...), it is a way of protesting, it is a way to express many Muslim's frustrations. Has a religious "tone", but again, do not go to the other extreme and say hijab is fundamental part of our religion...
At the end of the article, I still have the doubt if someone explained to this family the origin and reason of wearing the hijab. Teenagers are usually a bit exagerated and tend to put in absolute position some less important things. And other Muslims abuse of this ignorance to appeal to public as strict and loyal to Islam...
Salaam
god is above all
peace be with you
maram
I admire your courage and ask all Muslims to follow your couragious move
Wa 'Alaykum Salaam
Your endurance and hardship will be repaid, InsyaAllah, if not now, in the hereafter.
God Bless.
God bless you so much sister,
Tarek Hegazi
She made me cry...i'm speecheless, verry brave girl baraka llaho fiki and baraka llaho fi your parents they're the one who raised and they did good masha2allah .
el7amdoulilah islam is still strong out there very proud.
asalamo 3lakum
In any case this brave girl has found a most emphatec and fitting solution to a very tricky problem without getting provoked .Let the entire Muslim world follow taqwa and find such peacful solutions to the problems faced by the Islamic world in an unprovoked way in the true traditions of the Quran and the prophet(PBUH).Let the mighty and the un-just fail in their endevour to provoke and punish the innocent on some flimsy ground or the other.
Let them follow the Cennet's solution.
she made me realise that some of us dont appreciate the freedom of religious association in our Countries...
i think it was unfair to terminate her dad's employment...
are there any human rights activists in France???
this is the time to prove yourselves!!!
As for the hajab, if it is a meaningful expression of faith, anyone should have the freedom to wear it. It has the potential, however, of becoming just another trapping of religion used by some to project false modesty and by others as a tool to subjugate.
I can understand what she has done, but I'd better move to other country where wearing hijab is allowed like in Indonesia. I am also wearing veil because it's my dignity that diferentiate me and other girls. and I'd better stay here and not going anywhere else where wearing veil is not allowed. world is only the place for "waiting"
I am still searching for website to financially contribute in helping, so her family may obtain their basic needs. Please post any trusted web site link here if you know it. InshaAllah if I find it first I will post it. If her family receives only one Euro (or one Dollar) once a month from each of the thousands of people, it will be of a big help to them and at the same validate our moral support. Jazzakoum Allahou Khair.
My thanks to Islamicity/iviews for posting this article.
Allah will care you sister.There should be thousand like you.Thaks a lot.You are a example for all of us.There wiil be difficulties for you in this world but,you will be rewarded by allah.Wassalam Dear Bros and Sisters
Even though I dislike the idea of a Country banning headscarfs because its connection with religion (it is exagerated, I think), I disagree with the whole idea of putting headscarf in an absolute position.
As a man, a feel more attracted to a woman wearing headscarf... it all depends of culture.
But the main reason is understanding absolute requirements. Our religion of Islam is suppose to free our minds and souls, giving peace and submitting to the Merciful God, not to enslave ourselves with cultural practices.
Among other Arab costumes, covering the hair is one of them. As other readers stated, is not an ismalic requirement, and not necesary to keep personal beliefs untouched. Several Muslim comunities in the world do not wear it, and only is absolutized due to the preaching of some long bearded scholars and fanatics.
But, of course, I understand the right to wear it, and the free choice of a woman to do it.
Sister,
If the law in France banns it, girl, you should whether wait until you are free of duty in the school, or decide with your parents another educational placement. But the whole idea of fighting for this does not seem reasonable to my humble understanding. It "smells" too strict and a bit exagerated.
thanks goodness nashkurallah congragulation for this site. now all over the sunni muslim celebrating Prophit Muhammed (s a s)birth day i am also partisipated."kulluna fidaka yaaa rasoolallah, kulluna arvahana yaa rasulallah, antha ummun am abun mara aina feehima misla husnika kathuya sayyidee khairannabi"
Here we go again ! Another lady-Earthling, Ms. Sameena, who is being brain-washed by Western Media (i.e.-FOX NEWS and CNN etc) OR IS IT the simulataneous consumption of FREEDOM FRIES and BOOZE that are creating the blurriness as they compete for passing from stomach to duodenum in the name of high-spirit, modernity, and self-expression? or DOES SHE REALLY NEED SOME HELP to resolve some pre-historic emotional issues which may have stemmed from living in Muslim household?
According to her statement as quoted here:
"Muslim men need to get over their obsession with controlling their women's sexuality and start solving some real problems for a change."
Since it is angrily stated, I, H.A, in contrast would like to peacefully/calmly conclude that
she is allergic to Muslim men. HOWEVER, I,H.A., is/am baffled by WHAT COULD BE CAUSE OF such abhorance towarnd Muslim men.
Possible scenrios:
1. Is she an illegal immigrant in the USA, possibly marrying an Non-MUSLIM to get permanent status in the USA?
2. Was she discplined at an young age by her parents for having high affinity for self-expressive and high-spirit life-style of the WEST?
3. Does she think that she is too smart? Is she suffering from the same old, same old "Little Knowledge is very dangerous thing syndrome?"
4. Has she fallen in love with the AMERICAN PIE? Has the materialism of the West finally caught up to her? Has she fallen victim to the high-spirit and "civilized" fluid of the West (..the same fluid that caused American Vice president to shoot his dear best friend in broad day light...)?
I,H.A., wonder WHY! Why ask why? May be I should go and try some bud dry to energize the "hint-box" safely locked up in the Western quadrant of the cerebral hemisphere of my brain, all in the name of getting some clues regarding why Ms. Sameena can't tolerate Muslim men. THIS IS INDEED A REAL PROBLEM /TASK FOR I,H.A., who is an Yathribian, to solve.
SO HELP ME GOD!
Sameena as for wearing hijab, I can understand why you think women wear it by force and it's oppressive. Maybe most of your experiences w/ muslims, women are being forced and also most Islamic societies force women to wear the scarf. On top of that many women don't have basic human rights. So unfortunately, it's easy to equate wearing the scarf equals to being oppressed. I wear the scarf and it's a CHOICE. I ONLY do it for Allah and for his sake only. It's up to us Muslims who do understand the deen (religion) and educate others.
We are in the world full of trials and heartaches. All of us wanted education and knowledge, and job in the future. And we do really want jannah (paradise) in afterlife.
What we do is judge by Allah alone.
Allah is most forgiving and most merciful.
to protect our religion.keep on sister ,by the grace of Allah there will be changes.
Yusuf
froma teacher's perspective the wearing of hijab is a means for noot being focussed on the learning task and a manipulative use of camouflage.
I have worked in a Muslim school where the girls wear hijabs, and have come to realise that it is a health and safety risk, especially when the girls are doing practical work e.g woodwork, or chemistry.
Also they can use the hijab to avoid eye contact with the teacher, and that is, like saying, 'I am blanking you'.
From the Quran's perspective the wearing of a hijab is not an absolute requirement, it says,
Cover your body from the neck to the ankles.
I think the French authorities have acted within the islamic law.
If a girl wears a hijab because she thinks her hair are a symbol of sexuality then I have to say a female bald head is an even bigger symbol of sexuality. Look at Sinead O'Connor the singer.
The female form in all it's diversities are a symbol of beauty and sexuality, whether it is covered from head to toe or not, so does that mean that you are going to be house bound?
This is why the Qur'an tells us that the virtue of chastity and modesty is superior, and why African women did not feel naked with only a necklace and waist band made of thread or beads.
In their culture, they had developed a mental state of mind which made them feel clothed, just as the rest of Allah's creation do not feel naked going about in their birthday suit (the horses, camels etc) who don't need clothes to hide their sexuality.
So I am sorry to say that this Muslim French student has made a very bold statement , but it is not her fault.
It is the Muslim Community and it's leaders.
Leaders that should promote healthy Muslim values.
Unfortunately, there are no Muslim leaders who engage with secular pressures, demands and influences.
The Muslim society is a Headless society, and so our young interpret their cultural identity in the
I would like ot remind ourselves of a hadith.... the meanig of which would be something like 'everyone gets rewards according to inetention....'
may Allah accept your honest intensions....and may He deliver us from such fitnah at the same time giving us enough strength to fight these fitnahs....Aameen.
I think they are one of the country that proved to be Civilised, they claim to give every citizen freedom of speach and freedom of Religion.
I think the french government call itself a Democratic government.
The Question?
Is this the FREEDOM they claim?
is this the CIVLISATION?
is this the true DEMOCRACY?
We should have been tought initially that DEMOCRACY COULD BE TURNED TO DICTATORSHIP.
THE FRENCH GOV SHOULD NOT JOIN THE AMERICAN GOV WHICH HAS TURNED IT DEMOCRACY TO DICTATORSHIP.
Thanks
We have to support this religious and God fearing sister for her committment and dedication to her religion. Allaah says: "do you think you will say you believe and you will not be tested" So as we see we all have to go through alot of sacrifices for our deen. May Allaah fill her heart with patience and perseverance.
I am not of the Muslim religion, but I do read the IslamCity Bulletin (where I found this article). My heart has opened to this young lady. To be so true to her own beliefs, only demonstrates how far she will go in her own life. I am so very proud of her, and fully support her!
May your path be fully blessed and absolutely abundant Cennet! Keep your spine, your beliefs, and your strong, independent streak going. It WILL take you far!
Blessings, Blessings, Blessings and much Love to you and your family! Donna
Cennet Doganay is an inspiration for today's muslims who under one pretext or the other, disobey islamic principles.
Whether her step is legal or not,she has the courage to sacrifice that which she thought would interfere with her religious obligations despite hair being something a woman would give anything for.
-Izawra
P.S. When you give up something that's so dear to you, you gain something greater that Allah has planned :)
"practice racist customs such as caste stratifications, which is a much bigger issue than what a woman wears."
Regarding India, that's what I wanted to tell you, that you probably end up with men (father, brother or husband....) who are Muslim by name and Hindu by deeds and the end result is a confused product like yourself, confused between religion and culture.
Hey, Kumar, yes most probably my ancestors were Hindus, Alhumdulillah, its was the mercy of Allah that he elevate us from a subhuman life as a dalit to my real identity as a noble creation of god (a human).
You are comparing oranges with apples, Saudis never claim they are democratic and free society, Saudis are not hypocrites unlike French..
Muslim wont leave their way of life even in west, that is because of their firm believe unlike other religious groups or systems. Muslims know they are here to stay and will change the world Inshallah.
If in secularism personal freedom of people will be taken away by force of law, what is good about it ?
You did a right thing & we all ar proud of you.
I personally appreciate your step & loved the way you showed others "how to do right for oneself & for Islam".
May ALLAH ALMIGHTY BLESS YOU.
Fareeha Afzal
Lahore
Pakistan
"The hair is a symbol of sex and sensuality, and in our religion it's considered improper to reveal or flaunt it before men." Now, why exactly is a woman supposed to hide her sexuality from men?
As for Syed, what do you mean by "end up with". Why do people like you always assume that you are only ones who know correct Islam? In India, there are countless Muslims who wear the hijab but practice racist customs such as caste stratifications, which is a much bigger issue than what a woman wears. Muslim men need to get over their obsession with controlling their women's sexuality and start solving some real problems for a change.
The thing I find most objectionable, whether in Europe or in here in the US, is this idea that I must be "protected" against myself if I choose to align myself with Islam.
I am a free muslim woman, and my choice to wear the hijab or not is my choice, not my father's or my husband's or the state's.
There are those who would advocate that Muslim States should impose hijab in retaliation. Do you not realize that 2 wrongs will never make a right. Why would you, who suffer injustice, inflict it on others.
Strength sister!
L. Alahem
Your comments for support of the French law really shows your lack of understanding of Islam and the purpose for the hijab. It is interesting how ignorance of the hijab still prevails.
we need more muslims like her, more people to fight for whats right
I wonder if these people are in the wrong country; after all, France and just about all of Europe, US and Canada are decadent and every muslim knows it, but they still keep on coming to their shores. Why do they want to come to these decadent countries? Personally, I just ignore decadent parts of these societies and enjoy the rest. After all, societies in India, Pakistan, and other muslim countries are decadent, but in their own ways. So, folks, decadence is the norm, not the exception.
Is religion only about head-scarves or beards or turbans or is it lot more than that? What is the real religion about and is anybody really practising it? I think the practises are outwardly and superficial.
dont be shy or anything , walk tall infront of people cause you opposite to every person have principles and the respect of every person.
It is with people like you our spirit grows and morals rise to the sky , i might not be in france to give you my support , ill just pray to you and say " allah is the great , greater than the whole universe ".
mahmoud al-halabi
(mechanical eng.)
the HIJAB is not the issue, it is you, our presence and your dedication wich is the propagation through example that is being feared. France is not afraid of any reprecusion from any muslim Gov. because they indeed know whom they have installed in order to rule and prolonge the occupation. and when all fails, we can alwys see the true face come up with arms, embargo, >>>>.ALLAH has decreed it upon, us the muslims, to regaine our self respect through our affiliation with God and not our country or region. Unity is the solution.
May Allah bless, support, enrich her Iemaan, for she is an example for us all.
thank you sister
thank you.
they live in, they can always leave. I know many a French
professional living in USA for good, as they are fed up with 40%
taxes that go to support liberal social programs back home.
These programs benefit the new immigrants. In return, it is a
simple thing to obey the laws of the land. If the Muslims get
integrated with the French, and study hard and become great
scientists and engineers, that will bring pride to their adopted
country as well as to Islam. Shaving off the head is a rather silly
notion. In Saudi Arabia, even Western non-Muslim women are
required to hide their hair. Why is that? Because that is the law of
the land. All the Muslim men who are protesting the French
Laws, why can't you first change the laws in some of the Islamic
countries? It is best to get integrated with the country's customs
and laws. I was in Norway last year, most Norwegians are
unhappy with the Muslim immigrants in their country- because
the Muslims are not getting integrated. One can see in Oslo,
Muslim men running around in flowing robes, not speaking any
Norwegian at all. Local people look at them with suspicion. Why
can't one be a god Muslim without scarf on the head? I am proud
of Sameena- proud to call her a sister from India. On the other
hand, my fellow Indian, Syed, who lives in a secular country,
Canada, seems to think Secularism is a disease. I do not
understand what his comment is meant to convey- 'Muslim on
the outside, and Hindu on the inside'. Perhaps he has forgotten
that his ancestors were Hindus at one time. I hope there are
more people like Sameena among Muslims- will be a definite
improvement. Then we will all be, despite what religion one
belongs, truly humans on the inside and out.
"WA Qarna Fee Buyootikunna" meaning stay in your homes (check n Tafseer for correct meaning). The verse for niqab is also in Surah Ahzab.
Have you considered the option of studying to become an Aalima. You will acquire the knowledge left by Prophet Mohammed SAS and teach this knowledge to other women. According to Ahadith, an Aalim/Aalima is like a Full Moon giving light to others whereas worshippers are like stars. The birds in the sky & the fish in the waters seek forgiveness for an Aalim. Also, Ahadith tell us: Whoever walks on a road to seek knowledge ('Ilm), Allah SWT makes him/her walk on the road to Jannah. Being an Aalim is like doing the job of Prophets-the best job because you then become a Musleh. And Muslihoon are very dear to Allah SWT. I love to be an Aalim myself if the circumstances allow me. You will live a very peaceful life MaShaAllah. There is a DarulUloom in Buffalo N.Y. where students go to become Aalim. You get to study UloomulQuran (sciences od the Holy Quran), learn Arabic and study all aspects of our Deen. You never have to shave you head. The DarulUloom will not ask you to pay if you are unable. They also teach basic skils that you learn in school. (in other words they have studies upto high school). Your dad can find a job in USA or another country of his choice. On the day of Judgment, Allah SWT InshaAllah will make you wear a Crown of Honor and you parents will be granted a dress of honor. They will say why we are given a dress of honor? They will be told this is because of your daughter who studied and acted on the Holy Quran. According to Islam, you should leave the country that is oppressive & go elsewhere.
they also should ban wearing all the western clothes especially the lady clothes, which uncover all their SEX things
Secularism in itself is become a religion and by forcing others to follow secular ideas the French government is contradicting what it's trying to preach.
So much for the sake of freedom and democracy the west is killing thousands of innocent people only to let few teachers in schools to take away individuals freedom. Stop the hypocrisy west we will never accept you as civilized.
Mashallah, blessed is this sister cennete and her parents.
Inshallah French will be humiliated for their actions.
I doubt you muslims would like my views on Islam, but I certainly stand with all muslims on their right to practice all aspects of their religion that do not infringe upon non-believers (including those that used to be muslim!).
sister i am with you and may allah replace each one of your hair with a house in heaven.
Assalamoulikoum i admire your courageous decision.It isn't fair of the French government to ban the headscarf in the first place.Where is the freedom of expression in that?
I really sad to hear that your father lost your job as a result.But don't worry Allah will open a way for your father which will be better for him and you,Incha Allah.You've shown that you've a stong character and sincere people will only admire you for it don't worry about the rest Allah is the best of planners.May Allah bless you and your family and all the muslims to be sincere in our actions and deeds,amin.
Keep up the good work!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Fi amanillah.
Yours sincerely,
Meriam Bakker.
As a muslim I cover my head as well,but if we are not allowed to practice our relegion we dont have to shave our head. This is never done before and doing so would be an exaggeration in the relegion.
As-Salaamu Alaikum
This article is touching because it is a testiment to the will of Allah. No matter what laws man create these laws should not supercede the laws of the Quran, or islamic customs. This is a paramount flaw that exist within the Christian world their religion revolves around their lifestyle. We as Muslims are taught that our world, life and mere being revolves around Islam. There is a place for man's laws as long as they do not outright contradict or attempt to supercede Allah's laws as he has set forth for us as Muslims.
Salaam,
Bro. Abu Sadiki
This whole world is open to Muslim, it all belongs to one God. Who knows what is store for this girl if she goes to a muslim country? Turkey and I believe Tunisia there is some kind of ban on hijab. In malaysia you can't wear niqab (with only eyes exposed). Unfortunately there is no true justice in muslim countries either.
Anyway, French Muslims should fight this using the European law. The clothes a Muslim wears (man or woman) are NOT religious symbols. We dress according to a commandment. It 's the same reason we don't eat pig. So this French law could also be used to force French Muslim students to eat pig at school, in their warped logic, not eating pig could be construed as a religious symbol. Stupid isn't it! The law goes against any definition of the freedom that's supposed to be around in Europe.
Being someone who adorns the hijab, I can relate to how she felt when the new law was imposed.I already feel an emotional attachment to her, even though I have not met her.
I understand the importance of separation of church and state. It's worked well for us here in the U.S., but this is not the seperation of relgion from politics. On the contrary it is the seperation of Muslims from their traditions. If it were not so directly aimed at Muslims it could be considered fair, but not as it is.
I applaud this young girls' efforts. May Allah bring her a happy future that include long, luxurious hair!
?? ????? ????? ???????? ? ???????? ?? ?? ?????? ???? ???? ???? ? ??? ???? ??????
Those who persecute (or draw into temptation) the Believers,
men and women, and do not turn in repentance, will have the
Penalty of Hell: They will have the Penalty of the Burning Fire.
May Allah make it easy for all muslims around the world who are
being persecuted for their adherence to the deen. Ameen.
The Islamic countries should ban the westerners wearing western dresses (suits & ties), shaving beard and impose decent or muslim culture things in response to French action.
They call STATE & RELIGION. It is ridiculous & we see state & religion are not seperate.All politicians go & take advice of their preists, and many times they are puppets of one religion section(Evangelists).
The western countries are scared to see Islam growing and they are doing their best to wipe the Islam, institutions and its values by wars, media, invasions, holocast/genocide of muslims, spreading chistianity and so on. Some hypocrite muslim leaders are going with them.
What u did was to succeed in committing three bad things instead of one. All in an effort to do the right thing? Do u know that u can even denounce ur belief under compulsion and later revert back again? Or u can eat haram meat in the absence of halal and still be ok? Why go to the extent of seeing ur father out of work? Or worse changing ur physical appearance to appear like man, something which Islam prohibits?
No Cennet, u are wrong. You should have consult ur parents or the ulamah before taken this decision, and 'm sure will have advised u wisely on what to do. At ur age and considering the fact that u are a woman ur parents have a large say in what u do (after due investigation). After all they are much wiser than u.
So my advise for u is to grow ur hair, go back to school and may be when the time comes u may be able to change the obnocious law or at least be part of the vanguard to do so. No hurry. The law of Allah shall be the ultimate no matter how long it takes. It could be now, or the time of our great grand children or beyond. Who knows? The knowledge and power is with Allah, the supreme, the wise.
I shaved my beards when I was going to the west, but I will never do that again, even if a band is put on growing beards.
May Allah grant cennet the life of this world and the life of the hereafter in abundance.
BRAVO!!Cennet Doganay! for her bravery and courage!!Being only 15 years old and making a choice like this for the love of God is indeed very great.
yr skills and expertise can help undeveloped muslim countries develop....why stay in france...get out, u are not welcome there...come and live in a place where u are welomed.
Firing this girls father demonstrates a country unable to handle it's own embarrassment over what it forced a young woman to do.
Her courage should inspire others, muslim and not, to stand up for a woman's rights.