TO HIJAB OR NOT TO HIJAB?

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   Let me start off by saying that no, I am not Muslim. However, there are some beliefs that I agree with (as well as some I do not). I am still researching, and thus learning, so bear with me.

I agree with the wearing of the hijab (covering the hair and ears, in most cases). From what I understand of my research, the niqab (face veil) is not required.

I was raised under a Catholic father and a Baptist mother. My father began worshipping as my mother worshipped and our household became Baptist.

Wearing the hijab reminds me of the way friend and family wore /wears the tignon. In that case, historically in the Creole culture it was customary for slaves/women of color to cover their hair so that men would not be as attracted to them.

What I am wondering is, if it is acceptable to wear the Islamic style hijab without being very informed of the Islamic religion or should one be devout Muslim to do so? 

I know that my lifestyle would be frowned upon by Muslims. I am unsure if wearing the hijab will be an insult to the Islamic community. 

PLEASE PLEASE PLEASE SHED SOME LIGHT!

Thank you!

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lez.g Members Profile Send Private Message Find Members Posts Add to Buddy List Starter Joined: 05 June 2009 Status: Offline Points: 4	Post Options Post Reply Quote lez.g Report Post Thanks(0) Quote Reply Topic: TO HIJAB OR NOT TO HIJAB? Posted: 05 June 2009 at 4:26pm
	Let me start off by saying that no, I am not Muslim. However, there are some beliefs that I agree with (as well as some I do not). I am still researching, and thus learning, so bear with me. I agree with the wearing of the hijab (covering the hair and ears, in most cases). From what I understand of my research, the niqab (face veil) is not required. I was raised under a Catholic father and a Baptist mother. My father began worshipping as my mother worshipped and our household became Baptist. Wearing the hijab reminds me of the way friend and family wore /wears the tignon. In that case, historically in the Creole culture it was customary for slaves/women of color to cover their hair so that men would not be as attracted to them. What I am wondering is, if it is acceptable to wear the Islamic style hijab without being very informed of the Islamic religion or should one be devout Muslim to do so? I know that my lifestyle would be frowned upon by Muslims. I am unsure if wearing the hijab will be an insult to the Islamic community. PLEASE PLEASE PLEASE SHED SOME LIGHT! Thank you!

Chrysalis Members Profile Send Private Message Find Members Posts Add to Buddy List Senior Member Joined: 25 November 2007 Status: Offline Points: 2033	Post Options Post Reply Quote Chrysalis Report Post Thanks(0) Quote Reply Posted: 06 June 2009 at 12:53pm
	Let me start of by saying that it was really nice of you to actually consider muslim sentiments in the matter! I personally would not be offended at all. Islam teaches us that we should choose for the other, what we would choose for ourselves (if not better) - and I as a muslimah choose to wear one. Also, we as muslims cannot claim ownership or exclusive rights over aspects of our religion - saying others cannot benefit from it. If a nonmuslim sees beauty in some aspects of our religion, Alhamdulilah. Let them adopt it The Hijab is not even a 'Muslim invention' btw. There is mention of the Hijab in the bible (Corinthians) , and the Torah as well. Jewish women are supposed to be covering up as well. In Pakistan, there are christian/hindu women who cover up as well! And no, it is not required by law, nor does everyone have to cover up - its solely a choice. A little clarification about the Hijab - according Islam, Hijab is not only the headscarf per se, it is a whole package i.e. the way we walk, talk, behave, and dress i.e. dress should be modest and cover up a woman's curves. Since you care about Muslim sentiments, it may be considered offensive if you for example choose to wear the Hijab to a bar and drink or something like that, get what I mean? Btw, there is this non-muslim lady on the you-tube, called the non-muslim Hijabi, look her up - and she wears the hijab and has many tips on how to wear various styles etc. I am interested on how things go! keep us posted. . . Inshallah other sisters will join in with thier feedback (and brothers too )
	"O Lord, forgive me, my parents and Muslims in the Hereafter. O Lord, show mercy on them as they showed mercy to me when I was young."

lez.g Members Profile Send Private Message Find Members Posts Add to Buddy List Starter Joined: 05 June 2009 Status: Offline Points: 4	Post Options Post Reply Quote lez.g Report Post Thanks(0) Quote Reply Posted: 06 June 2009 at 2:13pm
	Thank you for your response! I really appreciate it!

lez.g Members Profile Send Private Message Find Members Posts Add to Buddy List Starter Joined: 05 June 2009 Status: Offline Points: 4	Post Options Post Reply Quote lez.g Report Post Thanks(0) Quote Reply Posted: 06 June 2009 at 2:20pm
	I forgot to mention this in the previous message. I am trying to learn Arabic, but honestly do not know where to start as it is so different that my current language (English). Can someone give me a few hints on where to begin, such as alphabet, writing, or learning words. I am so lost!

Hayfa Members Profile Send Private Message Find Members Posts Add to Buddy List Senior Member Female Joined: 07 June 2005 Location: United States Status: Offline Points: 2368	Post Options Post Reply Quote Hayfa Report Post Thanks(0) Quote Reply Posted: 06 June 2009 at 6:38pm
	Welcome, Hey if you want to dress i hijab, go for it! If you dress with the whole modest dress along with a distinct head covering- as you see many Muslim women wear, people very well may think you are a Muslim. Which to be honest, depedning upon where you live, can be tough. Its not just name calling, its being assaulted (i know a woman who was assaulted), maybe spat upon, property damaged etc. Not to discourage you.. at all. But giving you information so you can make an informed decision. Another group where women cover their hair and wear modestclothing are the Amish. They have their own distinct dress. If you do enjoy! And welcome! Hayfa
	When you do things from your soul, you feel a river moving in you, a joy. Rumi

lez.g Members Profile Send Private Message Find Members Posts Add to Buddy List Starter Joined: 05 June 2009 Status: Offline Points: 4	Post Options Post Reply Quote lez.g Report Post Thanks(0) Quote Reply Posted: 06 June 2009 at 7:46pm
	Thank you, Hayfa. I am grateful for the warning. You have not discouraged me with your information, but have contributed to my awareness. If anyone sees me as a Muslim, I would take no offense, but would hope that they are appreciative of a beautiful religion and group of poeple. Again, thank you.