اسلام اور عیسائیت میں تصورِ حجاب کا تقابلی جائزہ

The comparative analysis of the concept of Hijab in Islam and Christianity

Authors

  • Dr. Majid Rashid Institute of Humanities and Arts, Khwaja Fareed University of Engineering and Information Technology Rahim Yar Khan
  • Amira Irshad Institute of Humanities and Arts, Khwaja Fareed University of Engineering and Information Technology Rahim Yar Khan

Keywords:

islam, christianity, veil, segregation, women's rights

Abstract

Islam gives women many social, economic, and civil rights. They can get an education, work to support themselves, invest in businesses, contribute to the advancement of knowledge and culture, and provide services for social welfare. However, Islam does not want women to be reduced to mere decorations at social gatherings. It strongly discourages unrestrained mixing of men and women, as it does not fit with its social structure. Muslim society follows the exemplary standards set by the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) during his blessed era. In this society, it is clear that men and women are kept separate. While women were allowed to attend congregational prayers in the mosque, they were encouraged to pray at home for greater reward. When women attended the mosque, they were not allowed to stand in the men's row; their rows were positioned behind the men. They were instructed not to mix with men when leaving the mosque after prayer. On the occasion of Eid, it was advised to bring children along, but even then, women's participation was separate from men's, and they received specific sermons tailored to their circumstances.

The practice of segregation, which imposes unnecessary restrictions and confinement on women, is unwarranted. The removal of unnecessary difficulties and constraints is explicitly found in the divine law revealed by the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him). Indeed, Allah, the bestower of the title of Prophethood, does not desire hardship for His servants. The 24th chapter of the Quran, Surah An-Nur (The Light), addresses the topic of sexual purity and cleanliness in Muslim society. The significance of this purity, as perceived by the Almighty, is emphasized right from the beginning of this chapter, where the severe punishment for reaching the ultimate impurity (adultery) is established. Moreover, this punishment is not secretive; it is to be publicly enforced.

In the eyes of the Church, the veil is a symbol of modesty and respect. It is seen as a way for women to show their submission to God and to their husbands. The veil is also seen as a way to protect women from temptation. There are many different reasons why women choose to wear the veil. Some women wear it because they believe it is a religious requirement. Others wear it because they believe it is a cultural tradition. Still others wear it because they feel it makes them feel more modest and comfortable. No matter because a woman chooses to wear the veil, it is important to remember that it is a personal decision. It is not something that should be forced on anyone.

Here are some additional thoughts on the veil from a human perspective:

  • The veil can be a source of comfort and strength for women. It can help them feel more confident and secure in their faith.
  • The veil can be a symbol of religious identity. It can help women feel connected to their faith community and to their heritage.
  • The veil can be a way for women to express their modesty and respect for God. It can be a way for them to show that they are not objects of sexual desire, but rather, people who are worthy of respect.

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Published

2023-06-18

How to Cite

Dr. Majid Rashid, and Amira Irshad. 2023. “اسلام اور عیسائیت میں تصورِ حجاب کا تقابلی جائزہ: The Comparative Analysis of the Concept of Hijab in Islam and Christianity”. AL- ASAR Islamic Research Journal 3 (2). https://alasr.com.pk/ojs3308/index.php/alasar/article/view/134.

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