The Veil is not Mandatory in Islam

Over the years many scholars have argued on the interpretation of the Qur’an on the verses that relate to the hijab (veil). A few debated that is not fard (mandatory) and only Sunnah (choice). The majority though won and it was decided that the hijab is mandatory in Islam based on verses in the Qur’an and hadeeths said by the prophet and passed on by others. Misinterpretations can be made, although by the majority at times, and I think they made an incorrect assumption in this matter. Nowhere in the Qur’an is it stated that a woman should cover her hair.

Some may say that the hijab is clearly stated in Surat noor and that there is no question about it. The verse most people refer to is the one that says: " And say to the believing women that they should lower their gaze and guard their modesty; that they should not display their beauty and ornaments except what appear thereof; that they should draw veils over their bosoms…” [Al-Qur'an 24:31]. Modesty, respect, in those I believe in and I understand that was the meaning sent to us. Cover yourself, wear loose clothes, so you can be respected and not annoyed by men that are weak in their faith, and that are easily tempted and as a result disrespect women instead of lowering their gaze as they were told in the Qur’an to do so. The message is to cover yourself, just like the meaning of hijab is “to cover”, pull a “curtain”. It is to cover your body and be respectful. If you go out wearing respectful clothes and not seeking attention then men would most likely lower their gaze and show some respect. Most girls and women these days speak of men as “animals” (disgusting) as they flirt and act vulgarly, which is true at times. I have to say that I agree but at the same time disagree. Th...

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...ry attractive to the opposite sex and thus it should not be revealed as if is has no value. One should look at a person’s beauty from the inside, the heart, not only from the outside. One should be liked and judged not by what they chose to wear but by their personality.

Hijab is a choice that some women or girls make for their own security, for more privacy, or because it makes them feel comfortable and confident about themselves. It should be a choice though, and as it is not proven to us that it is obligatory, countries such as Saudi Arabia, Iran, and Pakistan should remove their laws that insist every girl puts the veil on. Freedom of choice should be given in these countries. It is not required in Islam so it shouldn’t be forced on anyone anywhere. In addition to this, Islam’s beauty is it’s freedom, the choice it provides you with, let it not be ruined.