In Islam, lowering of one’s gaze is a command given by Allah the Almighty to both males and females alike in order to promote a modest and dignified societal code of conduct. Males and females must exemplify noble speech, righteous manners and dress with modest clothing. The modest female clothing has become known as Hijab.

Allah the Almighty says in the Holy Quran {And say to the believing women that they cast down their looks and guard their private parts and do not display their ornaments except what appears thereof, and let them wear their head-coverings over their chest} (Quran 24:31)

Hijab has become characterised by the iconic female head scarf and is often translated to a ‘veil’ when spoken of in an English context. Thus, enabling the preservation of comfort and modesty, whilst seeking to minimise immorality within social settings. The Hijab worn by Muslim women enables the preservation of modesty in a public forum.

Hijab is a divine command given by Allah the Almighty to be practiced and observed by believing Muslim women. Moreover, it is a Fard (obligatory) ritual upon all female Muslims who have reached the age of puberty. Meaning a believer is considered to have fallen into sin if they choose not to observe its practice. In much the same way that leaving your prayers, or not fasting the month of Ramadan results in sin, denying its obligation can lead to one falling out of the fold of Islam.

Accordingly, the Hijab is a concept rooted in seeking the pleasure of your Maker, Allah the Almighty, by following His divine command. Not of patriarchal repression or of a man-made societal construct. Hijab is a core principle and concept of Islamic belief system and is observed as a mainstream Muslim practice globally.

Islam’s societal construct is built on a foundation of faith in Allah the Almighty and seeking to please Him by observing modesty at all public levels. Islam does not deny the instinctive desire to enjoy such beauty. Instead, offers men and women a dignified framework to do so. Living one’s life in accordance with divine instruction is a great example of personal empowerment and liberation.

When observing Hijab, like all other forms of ritual worship, you will unavoidably encounter hardships and challenges, in particular during this modern age. Just as one may find completing a month of fasting challenging and a struggle, perseverance through the hardship is possible if you hold a firm and unwavering hope in Allah’s ultimate mercy and reward. Allah Almighty is the Most-Just, and He alone will compensate and reward us for enduring the hardship for His sake.

The Australian National Imams Council (ANIC) in accordance with the traditional Quranic and Sunnah teachings of mainstream Islam, encourages Australian Muslim women to preserve their observance of Hijab and encourages any women who are experiencing hardship or harassment due to the Hijab to reach out to their local Islamic centres for support and advice. In addition to this, ANIC encourages all to be respectful, welcoming and supportive to those who are struggling with wearing the Hijab.