Islam for non-Muslims - Wearing Hijab as a Non Muslim

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Wearing Hijab as a Non Muslim

Printed From: IslamiCity.org
Category: Religion - Islam
Forum Name: Islam for non-Muslims
Forum Description: Non-Muslims can ask questions about Islam, discussion for the purpose of learning.
URL: https://www.islamicity.org/forum/forum_posts.asp?TID=22526
Printed Date: 22 November 2024 at 3:52am
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Topic: Wearing Hijab as a Non Muslim

Posted By: RSudan
Subject: Wearing Hijab as a Non Muslim
Date Posted: 24 January 2012 at 11:45am

I have recently moved to Sudan and, to be respectful and so as not to stand out so much, I chose to wear hijab. I enjoy wearing it and find it comfortable. I received a good response at work and answered honestly when I was asked if this is what I would wear in my country (no) and I presume that colleagues know I am not Muslim. All the other women in the office (who are all Sudanese) dress modestly but do not wear the headscarf whereas I wear a headscarf as well. However, I was speaking with some Sudanese and non Sudanese people (who I don't work with) and some of their comments have made me question whether I should continue to wear the headscarf. Some people in the group liked the fact that I was wearing the headscarf as a non Muslim but others said I should stop wearing it. They said that by wearing the headscarf people will assume that I am Muslim (which has been the case so far) and I might cause offence or confusion when I reveal that I am not. In addition they said that if in the future (I am here for at least a year) I choose to not wear the head scarf (e.g. when it gets hotter I might find it uncomfortable) this might cause confusion and offence and so it would be better to stop wearing it now as I have only been here a week.
The last thing I want to do is offend people and I do not know what to do for the best. I like that people at work are happy I am wearing a headscarf and I like that when I am outside I blend in. But I do not want to give people the wrong impression or make it seem that I am disrespectful, fake or a spy (one person said if I change between wearing the headscarf and not it could seem that I am a spy!)
Also, my plan was to wear the head scarf all the time at work, all the time on the streets but not necessarily when in ex-pat places. Could it be considered wrong to regularly change between wearing a head scarf and not? Is it something that I should either commit to doing all the time or not at all?
One compromise suggested was to wear a headscarf loosely as opposed to wearing it tight as I am doing at the moment.
Any advice on this matter would be greatly appreciated. Thank you.

Replies:

Posted By: semar
Date Posted: 24 January 2012 at 5:20pm

Salam/Peace,

In my humble opinion I think it's Ok you continue whatever you wear now, as long as you feel comfortable with. In case somebody raise question, you cal tell him/her that you respect the local custom and try to blend with the community around you.

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Salam/Peace,

Semar

"We are people who do not eat until we are hungry and do not eat to our fill." (Prophet Muhammad PBUH)

"1/3 of your stomach for food, 1/3 for water, 1/3 for air"

Posted By: Hayfa
Date Posted: 24 January 2012 at 8:25pm

Hi,

Welcome to the forum. I think "blending in" is a good thing as a foreigner. You will always stand out cause well, you are not Sudanese. I lived in Pakistan and visited before I became a Muslim and whereas I was not required to wear the local "dress" it helped a. that I respect their culture b. I was not an obvious "target" from a distance per se'.

I have not been to Sudan but I think as it is a conservative country, being as conservative as well is a good thing.

And if you like it why not? I actually found it nice to wear the dupatta (scarf in Pakistan). Nothing wrong with it.

I bet you, you will get more positive than negative responses.

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When you do things from your soul, you feel a river moving in you, a joy. Rumi

Posted By: CarysW
Date Posted: 03 April 2012 at 5:32pm

Hey,

I have spent a lot of time in DRC where it is culture to wear a headscarf and dress modestly not just an Islamic custom. So, in general wanting to fit in with local people, keep going with this custom. I would suggest you can wear your headscarf African style (I even wear it home in the UK):

http://www.123rf.com/photo_7206215_african-woman-in-headscarf.html

or

http://www.michaelfreemanphoto.com/media/fdf6d7d8-6531-11e0-823f-a31d0df77c44-18156-41-dinka-girl

It is really easy to do. Just twist it twice round the head and twist. And actually when it is hot it keeps your hair out your face, and you cool :) If you what to cover your neck wear another scarf underneath.

I think culturally, though I don't why, this style is associated as 'African' and therefore does not define between Muslim and Christian. The imported Arab style of one piece under chin and around neck has become a symbole of faith.

Hope that is helpful :)

Posted By: Sara Sultana
Date Posted: 16 April 2012 at 5:55am

Hijab shows your modesty and gives you protection and dignity.
Stay Dignified ever. Amen.
http://www.alquranclasses.com/virtues-hijab-veil/

Posted By: Ayesha.ansari
Date Posted: 25 April 2012 at 11:44pm

Islam is more than religion because it deals with all aspects of lives. Islam defined to Hijab in order to cover woman's beauty. Because it is not an ordinary thing. Allah Almighty made her with many precious features and it is most respected and honorable for the society