Main Topic
An in-depth explanation of the third degree of Islamic hijab, examining scholarly differences regarding uncovering the face and hands, the concept of fitnah in modern times, and the definition of the Jilbab.
Key Lessons
- Jurists differ on the interpretation of "illa ma zahara minha" (Surah An-Nur: 31). Sayyidina Abdullah bin Mas'ud (Radhiyallahu Anhu) explained it refers to the outer garment/cloak itself.
- Imams Malik, Al-Shafi'i, and Ahmad bin Hanbal (Rahimahumullah) held that a woman must conceal her face and hands when appearing in public.
- Imam Abu Hanifa (Rahimahullah) permitted uncovering the face and hands strictly on the condition of absolute freedom from fitnah (apprehension of desire). Later Hanafi jurists, such as Allama Shami (Rahimahullah), ruled that given the corruption of modern times, it is impermissible for young women to leave their faces uncovered in public.
- The beauty of a woman is centered in her face; exposing the face while wearing tight or fashionable clothing misuses juristic rulings and contradicts true hijab.
- Women are encouraged to observe proper purdah and remain in the home, while mahrams should take full responsibility for public errands to protect their family's modesty.
Quranic/Hadith References
- Surah An-Nur (24:31): Reference to lowering the gaze, guarding chastity, and the exception "except that which is apparent" (illa ma zahara minha).
- Surah Al-Ahzab (33:59): Command for believing women to draw their outer garments (jalabeeb) over themselves.
- Incident of Fadl bin Abbas (Radhiyallahu Anhu) during Hajj: Rasulullah (Sallallahu Alayhi Wasallam) turned Fadl's face away from looking at a handsome woman, demonstrating the necessity of guarding the gaze even during sacred rites.
Practical Advice
- Avoid using juristic concessions as an excuse to adopt fashionable, body-conforming attire under the label of hijab.
- Husbands and male family members must fulfill outside errands (groceries, bank, transportation) rather than burdening women and causing them to compromise their purdah.
- Move towards higher levels of modesty and sharam-haya in personal dress and daily lifestyle.
Hazrat Moulana Dawood Seedat Saheb