Defending Islam

Why do women have to cover more?

Why Do Muslim Women Cover More?

Introduction: Yes, Women Cover More—But Let's Discover Why

Modesty is at the heart of Islam. It's more than just clothing—it’s a mindset, a way of behaving, and a reflection of dignity and respect. In Arabic, this beautiful concept is called ḥayāʾ (حَياء). It’s the quality that makes a person humble, respectful, and aware of their actions. Both Muslim men and women are encouraged to embrace modesty, yet it’s noticeable that Muslim women often visibly cover more, wearing hijab, for instance. But why?

Islamic modesty isn't simply about appearance; it’s a deeper value emphasizing self-respect, dignity, and respect for others. Dressing modestly is a reflection of one's inner humility and commitment to God. Yes, women are asked to cover more visibly—but there's profound wisdom and beauty behind this.

In Islam, the clothes we choose reflect our inner beliefs. Allah, who created us, knows best what safeguards our dignity, protects our honor, and strengthens our communities. Rather than restricting women, these guidelines elevate their status and ensure respect in society.

In this article, we'll uncover the deeper reasons behind why Muslim women cover more. We'll dive into powerful insights from the Qur’an, authentic Hadith, and historical contexts to see how modesty evolved. We’ll explore what respected scholars, both classical and modern, say about these teachings. Additionally, we'll boldly tackle common misconceptions and criticisms, highlighting how the Islamic view of modesty offers clarity, wisdom, and empowerment for women and men alike. By the end, you’ll understand how modesty in Islam beautifully protects, dignifies, and honors individuals and society as a whole.

Women’s Nobility: Why Islam Shields Rather Than Displays

In Islam, women are honored as noble, precious individuals—worthy of respect, protection, and dignity. Think of how societies treat something valuable, like precious jewelry or treasured possessions. These valuable things aren't placed openly where anyone can see or take them; they’re carefully protected and displayed respectfully.

Similarly, in Islam, women’s dignity and nobility are considered precious. Thus, guidelines on modesty and covering, such as wearing hijab or even niqab, reflect respect and honor rather than oppression. These coverings ensure that women are respected, valued for their character, intellect, and faith, rather than being judged solely on their appearance.

Islam’s modesty standards elevate women’s status, emphasizing their worth beyond mere physical appearance. Covering empowers Muslim women, reinforcing their honor and reminding everyone that their true value lies in their hearts, minds, and character.

Challenges Faced by Women Without Modest Covering

In societies where modesty isn’t prioritized, women often experience uncomfortable and even harmful situations regularly. Let’s consider some common issues faced by women who don't follow modest dress practices, particularly in the West:

Catcalling and Harassment

Sadly, many women experience catcalling—unwanted comments, whistling, and inappropriate gestures from strangers. This kind of harassment can be humiliating, frightening, and degrading. It makes women feel unsafe and disrespected, reducing their sense of security and dignity.

Unwanted Attention

Women dressing immodestly can unintentionally invite unwanted attention. While it’s crucial to clarify that harassment is always the fault of the harasser, dressing immodestly can sometimes unintentionally signal openness or availability, leading certain men to approach them disrespectfully or aggressively.

Objectification and Pressure

Western media often promotes the idea that a woman’s value comes from how attractive she looks or how appealing she appears to men. As a result, many women feel intense societal pressure to always look attractive, causing emotional stress, low self-esteem, and anxiety. This pressure also encourages women to wear revealing clothing, feeding the cycle of being treated primarily as objects rather than respected as human beings with intellect, dignity, and personality.

Loss of Privacy and Safety

Women who dress revealingly or immodestly are sometimes perceived by others as inviting attention, even when that's not their intention. This can unfortunately lead to dangerous situations, making them vulnerable to stalking, unwanted advances, or worse. Again, while no one should ever be blamed for being targeted, modesty can serve as a preventative measure against certain types of unwanted attention.

Islam provides guidelines on modesty precisely to protect women from such situations, aiming to create a safer, more respectful social environment. While the responsibility always lies with the individual committing wrongdoing, Islamic modesty guidelines provide an additional safeguard that supports women's safety, dignity, and empowerment, helping create a safer, more respectful community overall.

Is Hijab or Niqab Required? Understanding the Islamic Position

One of the most common questions Muslims—and those curious about Islam—often ask is: Is wearing hijab or niqab required? Let’s explore the answer clearly.

Hijab (Headscarf): Is it Required?

Yes. According to clear evidence from the Qur’an, Hadith, and the consensus of Islamic scholars throughout history, the hijab (covering the hair, neck, and body except the face and hands) is required for Muslim women. This is unanimously agreed upon by scholars from all major schools of Islamic thought. The Qur’an explicitly instructs women to cover their adornments:

“Tell the believing women to lower their gaze and guard their chastity, and not to reveal their adornments except what normally appears. Let them draw their veils (khimar) over their chests…”
(Qur’an 24:31)

This verse is clear evidence that covering the hair, chest, and the overall body is mandatory.

What About Niqab (Face Veiling)?

The issue of covering the face (niqab) is more nuanced. Scholars have historically had different opinions:

Ultimately, while the hijab (covering the hair and body except face and hands) is unquestionably required, the niqab (covering the face) remains a matter of legitimate scholarly debate. Thus, niqab is a choice of personal conviction and extra devotion, rather than an obligation agreed upon by all scholars.

In summary:

Regardless of whether a woman chooses to wear hijab or go further by adopting niqab, her intention to obey and please Allah is what truly matters.

Key Terms: Hijab, Haya, and More

Before diving in, let’s clarify a few key Arabic terms that often come up when talking about modesty and covering in Islam:

Now that we have these terms down, let’s look at what the Qur’an and hadith actually say about modesty and covering.

Quranic Verses about Modesty and Covering

The Qur’an contains clear guidance about modesty for both men and women. It addresses behavior (like lowering the gaze and guarding one’s chastity) and dress (covering one’s body properly). Here are some key verses:

Qur’an 7:26 – “O children of Adam! We have provided for you clothing to cover your nakedness and as an adornment. However, the best clothing is righteousness. This is one of Allah’s signs, so perhaps you will be mindful.”
(This verse teaches that God gave people clothing for a good reason – to cover our private parts and to look dignified. But it reminds us that the “clothing” of piety – being a good, moral person – is the most important adornment.)

Qur’an 24:30 – “Tell the believing men to lower their gaze and guard their chastity. That is purer for them. Surely Allah is All-Aware of what they do.”
(Before talking about women’s dress, the Qur’an first instructs men: a man should control his eyes and not stare at women lustfully, and he must guard his own modesty. In Islam, modesty is a two-way street – it’s not just on women to cover; men have responsibilities too. Men are expected to dress modestly as well (covering at least from navel to knee, and not wearing tight or transparent clothes), and just as importantly, men must show modest behavior by lowering their gaze and respecting women.)

Qur’an 24:31 – “And tell the believing women to lower their gaze and guard their chastity, and not to reveal their adornments except what normally appears. Let them draw their veils over their chests, and not reveal their hidden adornments except to their husbands, their fathers, their fathers-in-law, their sons, their step-sons, their brothers, their brothers’ sons or sisters’ sons, their female (friends), those (bondwomen) in their possession, male attendants with no desire, or children who are still unaware of women’s nakedness. And let them not stamp their feet, drawing attention to their hidden adornments. Turn to Allah in repentance all together, O believers, so that you may be successful.”
(This is the main verse about women’s dress. It mirrors the command to men but adds specific instructions for women: Women should also lower their eyes and be modest. They shouldn’t show their “adornments” (beauty/attractions) except what is naturally apparent. According to many scholars, “what appears naturally” can mean the face and hands, since those are usually visible, or it can mean any part that might show unintentionally like outer clothes . In any case, the verse then says women should use their khimār (headcover) to cover their chest area (implying the hair, neck, and chest should be covered by the scarf). Women are not required to cover in front of certain male relatives (like their father, brothers, sons, uncles, etc.) or other women and children – these are people with whom there’s no risk of improper attraction. Finally, it tells women not to strike their feet in a way that draws attention to hidden adornments (imagine a woman wearing ankle bracelets under her skirt – she shouldn’t stomp her foot so that the jingling sound intentionally attracts attention). All Muslims, male and female, are urged to repent to God and strive for purity.)

Qur’an 33:59 – “O Prophet! Tell your wives and your daughters and the women of the believers to draw their cloaks (jalabīb) over their bodies. In this way it is more likely that they will be recognized (as virtuous women) and not harassed. And Allah is Ever-Forgiving, Most Merciful.”
(This verse introduced the practice of wearing an outer garment (jilbāb) when women go out. By covering themselves with a loose cloak or covering, the free believing women would be recognized in society as modest, respectable women, so lewd men would know not to bother them. It was both a physical protection against harassment and a sign of identity – an act of faith. Allah says He is forgiving and merciful, hinting that this command is for the benefit of women and society, not to make things hard. It shows care for women’s safety and dignity.)

There is also a verse specifically about the wives of the Prophet ﷺ which established hijab (in the meaning of a curtain or complete seclusion) for them:

Qur’an 33:53 – “…And when you (O companions) ask [the Prophet’s wives] for anything, ask them from behind a screen. That is purer for your hearts and their hearts.”
(This verse was revealed to protect the privacy of Prophet Muhammad’s wives, who had a special status as “Mothers of the Believers.” It required that no man should see them directly (hence, a physical barrier or curtain between them and male visitors). While this instruction was specifically addressing the Prophet’s household, the idea of a woman being behind a screen or veil became a principle that influenced Muslim society in emphasizing female modesty. Many scholars note that although the verse’s words were for the Prophet’s wives, its wisdom of maintaining respectful distance applies to all Muslim women to some extent .)

From these verses, we learn that modesty is commanded to everyone, but women have some additional physical covering requirements. Islam teaches that a woman’s body is precious and private, and covering it is a way of honoring her, not oppressing her. It shifts focus from a woman’s appearance to her character and actions.

The Qur’an’s modesty guidelines came to a society (7th-century Arabia) where practices were quite different. For example, before Islam, women might go bare-headed or wear low-cut garments in public, and men were free to ogle. Islam changed that culture by gradually introducing these rules – first telling men to behave respectfully, then telling women to cover more. The idea was to create an environment of mutual respect and safety. Let’s see how the Prophet Muhammad ﷺ reinforced these teachings in his sayings and how the early Muslims reacted.

Prophetic Teachings (Hadith) on Modesty and Hijab

Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) was known for his own modesty and for encouraging modest behavior in the community. In fact, he said that modesty is a part of faith, and that nothing but good comes from having modesty. The following authentic hadiths (recorded sayings of the Prophet) shed light on the importance of modesty and specific guidelines about covering:

“Modesty is a part of faith.”
– Prophet Muhammad ﷺ (Reported by Bukhari and Muslim)
(This short but powerful statement shows how important ḥayāʾ (modesty) is in Islam – it’s tied to one’s very faith. Being modest in how we dress and act is considered a sign of piety.)

“Every religion has its distinct characteristic, and the distinct characteristic of Islam is modesty.”
– Prophet Muhammad ﷺ (Reported by Ibn Mājah)
(This emphasizes that modesty is the hallmark of a Muslim’s identity. Just as you might associate certain values with other faiths, the signature value of Islam is haya, or modesty. This covers both humility in behavior and decency in dress.)

“Modesty does not bring anything except good.”
– Prophet Muhammad ﷺ (Sahih Muslim)
(The Prophet debunked the idea that being modest or shy is something to be embarrassed about. In some cultures today, modesty or shyness is seen as a weakness, but the Prophet ﷺ said it is purely good. It makes a person courteous, gentle, and virtuous.)

There are many hadiths describing how the Prophet taught men to be respectful and women to be modest. For example, one narration says the Prophet advised one of his companions: “O Ali, do not stare at a woman after the first (accidental) glance”, meaning a quick unintentional look is one thing, but one should not continue looking again intentionally . Another hadith mentions that the Prophet physically turned his cousin’s face away when he was gazing too long at a woman, to teach him to lower his gaze . This shows the Prophet was very serious about eliminating lustful behavior from men.

The Prophet ﷺ also taught that both men and women should dress modestly. He cursed the practice of men wearing very thin or see-through clothes that don’t properly cover, and he forbade women from wearing tight or revealing clothes that show their bodies. In one prophetic saying, he described future people and said: “There will be women who are clothed yet appear naked.” (Sahih Muslim 2128) This means their clothing might be so tight or transparent that it’s as if they aren’t covered – a prophecy that many Muslims believe describes the way some fashion is today. (We’ll revisit this as a miracle later on.)

Here are two very important hadiths that directly relate to the hijab (covering) for women:

Aisha (the Prophet’s wife) said: “When the verse ‘They should draw their veils over their necks and bosoms’ was revealed, the women of the Ansar (the Muslim women of Medina) tore parts of their waist sheets and covered their heads and faces with them.” (Sahih al-Bukhari 4759)
(This hadith is in Sahih Bukhari. It describes the immediate reaction of Muslim women when verse 24:31 (mentioned above) came down. They didn’t delay or argue – they promptly took cloth and made coverings for themselves. This shows how the earliest Muslim women understood the command: it wasn’t just about covering the chest; it meant covering the head, neck, and chest (hijab as we know it). Their devotion and quick obedience is really inspiring – it shows they saw this as something good for them, an act of faith.)

Narrated Aisha (may Allah be pleased with her): “Umar bin Al-Khattab used to say to the Prophet, ‘Let your wives be veiled.’ But the Prophet did not do so (immediately). Then one night Sawda bint Zam’a (one of the Prophet’s wives) went out for a need, and Umar saw her from a distance. He exclaimed, ‘I have recognized you, O Sawda!’ (He said this hoping that hijab (veiling) would be ordered by Allah). Soon after, Allah revealed the verse of hijab.” (Sahih al-Bukhari 6240)
(This is another account from Sahih Bukhari. It gives the historical context of how the order for hijab (here, “hijab” means full covering/separation for the Prophet’s wives) was revealed. Umar, a close companion of the Prophet, was very protective and concerned about the Prophet’s wives. He wanted them to veil for their privacy and safety. He respectfully pushed for it, and when Sawda was recognizable at night, it triggered his concern. God accepted Umar’s suggestion and revealed the verse we saw (33:59) telling women to draw their cloaks. This story is sometimes cited as one of the instances where Umar’s intuition aligned with divine revelation – a remarkable incident indeed. It also shows that even in the Prophet’s time, people were thinking about how to best implement modesty.)

Additionally, the Prophet ﷺ said that once a girl reaches puberty, she should cover her body properly. There is a narration (though weak in chain, its meaning is echoed by scholars) that he pointed to his face and hands and said everything else should be covered. While the specific narration has some issues , the consensus of Muslim scholars is that a woman’s entire body (aside from the face and hands, and according to some scholars even those) is considered ‘awrah and should be covered in public. We’ll detail the scholarly viewpoints soon.

Another hadith relevant here is about prayer: The Prophet ﷺ said, “Allah does not accept the prayer of a woman who has reached puberty unless she wears a khimār (head covering).” This means when a Muslim woman prays (even in private), she should cover her hair and body during the prayer. This underscores how important the covering is as an act of worship. If it’s required even when alone in prayer, it shows that hijab is about honoring God’s command first and foremost, not merely about social situations. (Of course, if she’s alone at home not praying, she doesn’t have to cover, but the prayer example shows it’s an obligation from God just like prayer itself.)

Finally, there is a famous hadith in Jami’ al-Tirmidhi where the Prophet ﷺ said:

“The woman is ‘awrah. When she goes out, the devil looks up to her (hoping to misguide her).”
(This means that a woman’s body is private (‘awrah) and when she goes out unveiled, Satan takes the opportunity to incite evil thoughts in people. This hadith is often cited to encourage women to cover themselves when in public, to minimize the chances of ill-intentioned men being tempted and also to protect the woman from harm. It’s important to understand “woman is ‘awrah” properly – it does not mean a woman is something shameful; rather it highlights that her body is precious and private, to be shielded from lewd gazes. Just as we cover something valuable to protect it, Islam asks women to cover not because they are bad, but because they are valuable. The mention of the devil is a reminder that whenever we disobey God’s commands (like if a society ignores modesty), it opens the door for immoral behavior which Satan loves to encourage.)

These Quranic verses and hadiths make it clear that Muslim women are told to cover more as part of maintaining a modest society and as a sign of obedience to God. Muslim men are told to observe modesty in behavior (and in dress, to a lesser extent) while women are told to observe modesty in behavior and dress. This difference often raises questions, which we will address. But first, let’s look at how these rules played out historically and what scholars have said about them.

Modesty for Men: What Do Men Have to Cover?

In Islam, modesty isn’t just for women—it's equally important for men. Just as women have guidelines for covering, men also have clear rules about how to dress modestly. So, what exactly are men required to cover?

Basic Requirements for Men (‘Awrah)

The minimum area a man must cover—his ‘awrah—is clearly defined. Islamic scholars unanimously agree that, at the very least, a man must cover the area from his navel to his knees. This means:

Beyond this basic requirement, men are also encouraged to dress modestly overall—avoiding clothing that excessively highlights their bodies or invites undue attention.

Modesty Beyond Clothing

Importantly, modesty for men isn't only about covering physically. Men are explicitly commanded in the Qur’an to lower their gaze, control their desires, and treat women with respect:

“Tell the believing men to lower their gaze and guard their chastity. That is purer for them. Surely Allah is All-Aware of what they do.”
(Qur’an 24:30)

Thus, Islamic modesty for men involves both outward dress and inward discipline—covering their bodies modestly while also behaving with respect, honor, and humility toward women and society at large.

So, while men do have less extensive covering requirements compared to women, they bear a significant responsibility to uphold modesty through their behavior, speech, and interactions. Both physical covering and respectful conduct are equally important parts of modesty for men in Islam.

Historical Context of Islamic Modesty Guidelines

To really appreciate the wisdom of hijab, it helps to know the historical context in which these guidelines were revealed:

Pre-Islamic Arabia (Jāhiliyya): In the society before Islam, women’s status and behavior varied. Some women of high rank did wear veils as a sign of status (veiling was also known in the Byzantine and Persian societies of that era, usually among noblewomen). However, it was not a universal practice. In Mecca and Medina, women commonly went out without a veil over their hair or chest. In fact, the Qur’an hints that women would sometimes display their “adornments” publicly and that their necklines were uncovered. When Islam came, it aimed to uplift moral standards. At first, there was no dress code revealed, and women and men mingled relatively freely (with the normal customs of that time).

Gradual Revelation: Islamic rules came gradually, not all at once. After the Muslims migrated to Medina, there were incidents that prompted guidance. For example, the incident of Sawda and Umar (mentioned above) led to the verse of the cloak (jilbab) to prevent women from being harassed at night. Another incident involved some troublemakers in Medina annoying women (not distinguishing between free Muslim women and others), which also was remedied by the command of the jilbab so that the respectable believing women would be clearly identified and left alone .

There was also an unfortunate event involving a Muslim woman and some non-Muslim townsfolk: A Muslim woman was in a marketplace when some fool pranked her by pinning her skirt so that part of her leg showed, leading to a scuffle. This incident (with the Banu Qaynuqa’ tribe) angered the Muslims and even led to a conflict, underlining how seriously the Muslims took the protection of their women’s dignity. It’s clear that as Islam spread, Muslim women themselves wanted to distinguish themselves through modest dress. When the verses of hijab came down, the women raced to comply. As Aisha praised them, “May Allah have mercy on the women of the early emigrants; when the verse ‘let them draw their veils over their bosoms’ was revealed, they tore their cloth and covered themselves.” These women saw covering not as a burden, but as an honor and an obedience to their Lord.

Modesty of the Prophet’s Wives: The wives of Prophet Muhammad had even stricter rules because of their unique position. They were not allowed to remarry after the Prophet, and as mentioned, people had to speak to them from behind a curtain. This established a very high standard of privacy and purity in the Prophet’s household, which served as an example for others. If they needed such privacy, it made other Muslim women feel that observing hijab was definitely important for them as well.

Other Cultures and Faiths: It’s worth noting that the idea of women covering their hair and dressing modestly wasn’t unique to Islam. In the Christian and Jewish traditions, women also covered their hair and wore modest clothing for many centuries. For instance, in the Bible (1 Corinthians 11:5-6), women are told to cover their heads, and up until the last few hundred years, it was common for Christian women in many places to wear bonnets or veils. Nuns today still cover themselves similar to Muslim women. Traditional Jewish women (especially in Orthodox communities) cover their hair (some with wigs, some with scarves) after marriage. So, Islam continued and refined a tradition of modest dress that has been part of many God-inspired cultures. The difference is that Islam made it a clear command from God and part of daily religious practice, whereas in the modern world, many other groups have relaxed those standards.

Protection and Dignity: Historically, the hijab also functioned as a protection in a rough environment. In Arabia and elsewhere, if a woman was visibly identifiable as “honorable and off-limits,” bad-intentioned men would face consequences if they tried to harm her. The Qur’an explicitly says the cloak makes women “less likely to be harassed.” In societies where law enforcement was primitive, visible signals of a woman’s protected status were important. The hijab thus served to tell society: these women are under Allah’s command and the community’s protection.

Of course, the ultimate reason Muslim women observe hijab is because it’s a command from Allah, not merely a cultural custom. But knowing the history helps us see Allah’s wisdom – He instituted these rules at the best time and in the best way, gradually and for clear reasons that people could appreciate.

What Do Scholars Say? (Classical and Modern Commentary)

Islamic scholars throughout history have discussed the specifics of modesty and hijab at length. On the core issue, they all agree: Modest dress for women (covering the body and hair) is obligatory in Islam, based on the Qur’an and hadith we saw. This has been the consensus from the earliest generations of Muslims.

Let’s look at a few classical scholarly interpretations and comments:

In summary, classical scholars were unanimous that women must cover their hair, chest, and entire body. The majority allowed the face and hands to be left uncovered, especially in normal day-to-day situations – this was the position of imams like Abu Hanifa, Malik, and Shafi’i. However, they also said if there is danger of temptation (fitna), such as very lewd societal conditions or a woman noted for great beauty, then covering the face could become necessary. A sizeable group of scholars (particularly many in the Hanbali school and some Shafi’is) held that covering the face and hands is also required by the texts, viewing the face as part of the ‘awrah in front of non-mahram men. They pointed to the prophetic women covering their faces as evidence.

Differences in the Four Schools of Thought

All four major madhhabs (schools of jurisprudence) agree on the basics: A Muslim woman’s entire body (except for at least her face and hands) must be covered around unrelated men. None of them say hijab is “optional” – they only differ on the extent:

To put it simply: Covering the hair, neck, arms, and everything down to the ankles is agreed upon by all. Covering the face and hands has been encouraged by many scholars but considered obligatory by some (especially in more conservative interpretations, or when societal conditions make it necessary).

It’s important to note that even those scholars who said face-veiling is obligatory would agree that the basic hijab (covering hair and body) is a more pressing requirement. Face-veiling is often seen as an extension or perfection of hijab, not as fundamental as covering the hair and body. That’s why across the Muslim world, the majority of women through history have worn the headscarf and modest clothing, while a subset also wore the face veil depending on local practice and personal piety.

Scholarly reasoning: The scholars always tie their rulings back to the Qur’an and hadith. For instance, they explain that Allah in Qur’an 24:31 said women shouldn’t show their “zeenah” (adornments/beauty) except what by necessity shows. Early Muslim authorities like the Prophet’s companion Ibn Mas’ud interpreted “what is apparent” to mean the outer garments (that nothing of the body should show) , whereas Ibn Abbas (in one interpretation) said it meant the face and hands can show. So scholars took these different narrations and formed their legal opinions.

All scholars agree that the reason behind hijab is not because a woman is inferior – rather, it’s to uphold dignity, privacy, and purity in society. Imam Al-Ghazali (11th century) once noted that flirtation, fornication, and societal corruption are fueled when men and women freely look at each other and dress immodestly. Thus, the laws of separation and covering cut the problem at its root, preserving the moral fabric of society.

Modern Scholars: Contemporary reputable scholars (across the world, from Egypt to India to America) continue to uphold hijab as mandatory for Muslim women. Scholars like Sheikh Yusuf Al-Qaradawi, Mufti Taqi Usmani, Sheikh Ibn Baz, and many others have written that while minor details differ, the obligation of a woman covering her hair and body in non-family mixed settings is established by consensus. Modern scholars also address new issues – for example, what fabrics or styles are acceptable (as long as it’s not see-through or extremely tight, there is a lot of cultural flexibility), whether exceptions can be made in cases of hardship, etc. But the ideal remains that a Muslim woman should proudly observe hijab as an act of faith.

One modern scholar, Dr. Haifa Jawad, said: “The hijab is not about hiding women; it’s about revealing their honor.” It’s a nice way to put it – by covering certain things, a Muslim woman reveals her true honor and intellect, forcing people to judge her by her character, not her looks or body shape.

In essence, scholars past and present see the hijab as a means to achieve a society where interactions are based on respect and not desire. It elevates spiritual and intellectual bonds over physical and sexual ones in public life. It’s a constant reminder of higher values.

Modesty in the Modern World: Relevance and Benefits

How do these teachings apply to Muslims today? Very much so! Even in the modern world (perhaps especially in the modern world), the Islamic principles of modesty are extremely relevant:

However, living with hijab today isn’t without challenges. In some places, people have misunderstandings about it. There may be prejudice or even discrimination. On the flip side, in a few countries, women are forced by law or pressure to wear hijab, which goes against the Islamic principle that modest dress should be chosen freely as an act of faith (forced worship is not true worship). It’s important to remember that the Qur’an says “Let there be no compulsion in religion”, so forcing someone to wear hijab isn’t right – it must come from one’s own belief and love of God.

Despite challenges, millions of Muslim women proudly maintain hijab. They have also shown that hijab does not prevent them from engaging in society. You’ll find hijabi women as doctors, engineers, teachers, athletes (even Olympians!), journalists, entrepreneurs, and more. They might style their hijab in ways suited for work or sports (there are sports hijabs now that are streamlined for exercise). This proves hijab is not a hindrance; it’s just part of one’s wardrobe and doesn’t stop one from achievement. In fact, it often motivates women to achieve more, to break stereotypes and show the world the strength and intelligence of Muslim women.

In the age of what some call “hyper-sexualized” media, where from billboards to music videos women’s bodies are often objectified, the Islamic stance provides a healthy contrast. It says a woman is to be valued for more than her sexuality. Many non-Muslims have begun to admire this. Some even adopt modest fashion trends (there’s a whole modest fashion movement now, and not just among Muslims). The idea that modesty is “outdated” is being challenged by both Muslims and non-Muslims who see its benefits for mental health and societal respect.

So, the teaching of covering and modesty is very much important today. It’s a means of preserving self-worth and family values. It also ties into lowering temptations in society – potentially reducing problems like casual cheating, sexual harassment, etc., though of course those issues are complex and require moral commitment from everyone, not just women’s clothing. But every bit of modesty helps create a safer social atmosphere.

Common Questions and Criticisms (And Their Answers)

It’s natural that people – including some Muslims and many non-Muslims – have questions or objections about the Islamic dress code, especially why it focuses on women. Let’s address some of the most common criticisms about hijab and modesty rules, and provide answers grounded in Islamic teachings and reason:

Objection 1: “Isn’t it unfair that women have to cover more than men? Why the double standard?”
Response: It might look that way at first, but consider that Islam gives different rules to men and women in line with their different natures and roles – not because one is superior to the other. Men don’t have to cover their hair, but they have other obligations (for example, men have stricter financial duties like paying dowry, full responsibility to provide for the family, etc., which women don’t have). When it comes to modesty, men are actually commanded first to control themselves. A man lowering his gaze and avoiding any inappropriate interaction is just as important as a woman covering. Islam recognizes that generally, men are more visually stimulated, and women’s bodies can attract men’s attention more strongly than vice versa. Modern science and psychology support this – men are often wired to be drawn by visual cues. So, Allah in His wisdom put a few extra safeguards on women’s dress to block that path of temptation. It’s not because women are less trustworthy or more responsible for lust (each person is responsible for their own behavior), but it’s an act of collective cooperation: men guard their eyes and behavior, women guard their appearance and behavior, both helping each other stay pure.

Also, think of it this way: if a society only told women “cover up” and let men behave badly, that would be unjust. But Islam never says that. The Qur’an literally, in adjacent verses, tells men and women to be modest . Both have to make changes: men, change your gaze and interaction; women, change your dress and interaction. These two complementary sets of rules achieve a balance. Women cover more physically; men cover more with their eyes and also must cover their bodies at least modestly. Both genders have dress codes in Islam, just that men’s is less extensive due to their generally different physique and role.

Objection 2: “Forcing women to wear hijab is oppressive. Women should have freedom to dress as they please.”
Response: We absolutely agree that no one should be forced by people to wear hijab. True hijab is a choice made for God. If a family or government forces it, the spirit is lost. However, saying the concept of hijab is oppressive is a misunderstanding. Muslim women who wear hijab by choice often feel it is empowering. It’s an act of obedience to God – a Muslim woman chooses God’s command over societal pressure to dress in a revealing way. That’s actually a very independent, courageous decision!

In societies where showing more skin is considered “freedom,” a hijabi woman swims against the current to assert a different kind of freedom: the freedom not to be pressured into dressing for others’ desires. Many hijab-wearing women will tell you they feel more valued for who they are, not how sexy they look. Far from a shackle, the hijab liberates them from the objectification and unrealistic beauty standards. As one Muslim author wrote, “Hijab lets me put my inner beauty in the spotlight, rather than my outer beauty.”

Additionally, the idea that a modest dress code is oppressive is ironic because almost every society has some dress code. We all accept that complete public nudity, for example, is inappropriate. Schools, workplaces, and formal events have dress expectations. The question is only where the line is drawn. Islam draws the line in a conservative place for a higher moral goal. It’s not about male domination; it’s about God’s guidance. A believing Muslim woman wears hijab for Allah, as a proud act of faith. And if she doesn’t feel ready, that’s between her and Allah – no other human being should bully or harass her.

It’s also worth noting, Muslim women weren’t passive recipients of the hijab rule – historically, as we saw, they embraced it eagerly. Even today, many girls decide to start hijab against the wishes of secular-minded family or despite society’s stares. That’s not oppression – that’s devotion.

Objection 3: “Why focus on what women wear? Shouldn’t we teach men to control themselves instead of telling women to cover?”
Response: Islam does both – it teaches men self-control and teaches women to cover. It’s not an either/or. Unfortunately, in some cultures, people emphasize women’s dress and neglect the men’s duty – that’s a cultural imbalance, not Islam. The Prophet Muhammad ﷺ taught men very strongly to be respectful. He said, “The best of men are those best to their women.” He never blamed a woman’s outfit for a man’s sin; rather, he said a man’s lustful look is a “zina (adultery) of the eyes” on his part . So, Islamically, a man has zero excuse to misbehave, no matter how a woman is dressed. Men are accountable for their gaze and actions.

Now, because humans can be weak, Allah in His mercy put extra precaution by prescribing hijab, to make it easier for men and women to interact without constant temptation. Think of it like traffic laws: Yes, we should teach people to drive carefully, but we still put guardrails on sharp turns just in case. Hijab is like a guardrail – it helps reduce the opportunities for mistakes. But it doesn’t absolve a man from lowering his gaze. Both measures work together.

Moreover, women themselves benefit from the “guardrail” – it’s not just about protecting men from temptation, it’s about protecting women from unwanted advances. In societies with less modesty, women often face the burden of being sexualized. Hijab relieves that burden to a large extent. It’s a relief for women, not just for men.

Objection 4: “Isn’t hijab a symbol of female oppression or backwardness? It’s old-fashioned – women today are empowered enough not to need covering.”
Response: What constitutes “empowerment” or “backwardness” is defined by culture, but from the Muslim perspective, true empowerment is following divine guidance. There are countless empowered, educated Muslim women who wear hijab today – professors, politicians, CEOs, you name it. They certainly don’t view themselves as oppressed. In fact, many find strength through hijab. It connects them to a legacy of great women in Islamic history (scholars, poets, spiritual leaders, etc.) who were modest and respected.

As for being old-fashioned: Truth doesn’t become obsolete. Just because a practice is ancient doesn’t make it irrelevant – for example, honesty or charity are ancient virtues, but still necessary. The world has changed in technology, but human nature hasn’t changed completely. We still have issues of harassment, infidelity, body image problems, etc. Islamic modesty provides timeless wisdom to navigate these issues.

In many ways, hijab is progressive in what it achieves: it forces people to judge women by intellect, not looks – something feminists have long struggled to have society do. It also gives women control over who gets to see their beauty – it’s like reclaiming ownership of one’s body from the public eye. These are empowering ideas even by modern standards. That’s why some non-Muslim women even experiment with hijab out of curiosity about that feeling of not being judged by appearance.

Objection 5: “What about hot weather or sports or other situations? Isn’t hijab impractical?”
Response: Muslim women have shown tremendous creativity in adapting hijab to all climates and activities. In hot countries, people traditionally wear loose, light-colored clothing – which aligns well with hijab. A flowy cotton scarf and loose outfit can actually keep one cooler than tight jeans and a tank top (because it shields from the sun and allows airflow). For sports, as mentioned, there are breathable athletic hijabs now. We see hijabi Olympians in track, fencing, taekwondo, etc. So it’s definitely doable. Where there’s a will, there’s a way. It might take adjustment, but with intention to please Allah, women find solutions. Early Muslim women rode horses and camels in hijab through the desert – modern women drive cars and go to gyms in hijab. It’s manageable with some modifications. And remember, hijab doesn’t mean you can’t dress nicely or be stylish – there are many ways to be fashionable and modest at the same time (there’s a whole modest fashion industry with beautiful designs). So one can fulfill the obligation and still have personal expression.

Objection 6: “Covering the face (niqab) seems extreme and isolating. Is that really required?”
Response: As discussed, covering the face is not universally required by all scholars. It falls under a woman’s personal choice or specific scholarly interpretation she follows. Many Muslim women do not cover the face and are fully observing hijab by covering hair and body. Those who do wear niqab often choose it because they want an extra level of privacy or they deeply believe it’s part of religious duty. It is not one of the Five Pillars of Islam or something as fundamental as prayer or fasting, but it is an act of extra devotion for some. It’s important not to vilify niqab as “extreme” – in contexts where women choose it freely, they usually still lead normal lives (shop, work, etc., just with their faces covered). It might seem unusual to others, but for them it can be a source of spiritual comfort. Islamically, no woman should be forced to cover her face – it should come from her own piety if at all.

In public communication, most niqabi women can still talk and be heard, and they often uncover among other women or in female-friendly spaces, so it’s not like they never show their faces at all. Historically, many noble and scholarly women in Islam wore niqab and still contributed to society (for instance, teaching other women or even teaching men from behind a curtain). So while niqab is beyond the basic requirement, it has its place for those who sincerely adopt it. For the majority who don’t, that’s fine too – they are not doing anything wrong by not covering the face according to strong scholarly opinions.

Objection 7: “I know some women who wear hijab but don’t behave modestly, and some who don’t wear hijab but are very decent. So isn’t hijab just superficial?”
Response: It’s true that a cloth on the head isn’t a magic halo that makes someone perfect. People are individuals with their own strengths and weaknesses. Some hijab-wearing women might still have to work on other aspects of character (as we all do). And indeed, there are women without hijab who have wonderful manners and chastity. Islam doesn’t say that without hijab a woman can’t be good or that with hijab a woman is automatically good. Hijab is one important part of being a Muslim woman, just as praying or telling the truth or being kind are other parts. We shouldn’t neglect one duty just because we fulfill another, and we shouldn’t do one good deed and ignore others.

For a well-rounded Muslim, the goal is to have both internal modesty (in behavior, intentions) and external modesty (in dress). The Prophet ﷺ said: “Allah does not look at your appearance or wealth, but at your hearts and deeds.” So intention is key. A sincere woman might be struggling with hijab but still earning reward for her good deeds; another might wear hijab due to family pressure but not really act upon Islam’s morals. We can’t judge someone’s piety just by their clothing. That said, the rules of hijab remain God’s command – a Muslim woman who doesn’t wear it isn’t “off the hook” just because she’s nice; it’s something she should aim to do as part of complete submission to Allah. Likewise, a woman who wears hijab should remember to embody the values behind it (like humility, chastity, kindness).

In short, hijab is not the only measure of a person’s faith, but it is a visible act of obedience. We encourage both the inner and outer modesty together. One analogy: a student might attend all classes (external) but not study in private (internal), or vice versa. To succeed, they should do both. Similarly, to truly succeed in modesty, doing both the external action (hijab) and internal work (character) is the goal.

By addressing these concerns, we see that most criticisms come from either misunderstandings of Islamic intent or observing cultural misuse of hijab (like compulsion or hypocrisy). When practiced as intended, Islamic modesty is balanced and filled with wisdom. It protects society while honoring the individual, and it places responsibility on everyone to uphold virtue.

Remarkable Aspects and Miracles Related to Hijab

Islam is a religion of wisdom, and sometimes we even see miraculous or extraordinary aspects in its teachings on modesty. Here are a few noteworthy points often highlighted by scholars and observers as almost “miraculous” insights of Islam:

In summary, the concept of hijab, though often seen as just a simple rule, carries layers of wisdom and even elements of the extraordinary. The prophecy of “clothed yet naked” coming true in our times serves as a sign for those who reflect. The enduring practice of hijab across 15 centuries, without the Qur’an being altered or its message diminishing, is itself miraculous – how many other ancient religious commands are still practiced so widely? It shows Allah’s protection of this religion.

For many Muslims, every time they see a modest sister or brother, it’s a reminder of the “miracle” of guidance – how Allah guides hearts to do things that aren’t always easy, but bring about so much good.

Conclusion

In Islam, the reason why women have to cover more comes down to trust in Allah’s wisdom and a deep understanding of human nature. Far from being a tool of female suppression, the Islamic dress code for women is meant to honor women, to protect society’s moral values, and to allow spiritual virtues to flourish. Modesty (ḥayāʾ) is like a treasure – when both men and women uphold it, the whole community shines with decency, respect, and safety.

We have seen that the Qur’an explicitly instructs both genders towards modesty, giving women a special role in manifesting this virtue through hijab. We have read the hadith that praises modesty as part of faith and gives examples of the first Muslim women enthusiastically observing hijab. Historically, hijab was never about men vs. women – it was about Islam vs. ignorance (jāhiliyya). It distinguished a believing society from the chaotic norms before it.

Classical scholars agreed on the necessity of covering and provided insight into its rationale: to block the paths to immorality and to distinguish the dignified. Differences among them were minor and reflect flexibility – a mercy of Islam that within modest dress, there is room for cultural expression and personal conviction (for example, the face veil being optional). All four schools of law uphold the virtue and obligation of modesty, proving that this has been a unanimous part of the religion.

In the modern day, hijab remains highly relevant – perhaps as a counter-cultural beacon of truth. It helps Muslim women and men stay God-conscious in a time of great temptation. It’s a source of identity and solidarity. Many Muslim women feel that through hijab, they assert control over their own bodies and demand to be judged for who they are, not what they look like – a narrative that aligns with feminist calls for ending objectification. Thus, Islamic modesty showcases its superiority over alternative viewpoints that reduce women to objects or that swing to the other extreme of cloistering women solely because of men’s whims. Islam strikes a balance: women are neither sexual objects nor erased beings; they are righteous servants of God who take active roles in society with their dignity intact.

We tackled various criticisms and found that when properly understood, hijab stands on solid logical and moral ground. The common objections often stem from cultural baggage or incomplete information. By clarifying that Islam holds men 100% accountable for their behavior (no blaming women) and that hijab is one part of a larger ethical system, many criticisms are answered. Importantly, Muslim women’s voices today strongly refute the claim that hijab oppresses – for them, it’s a personal spiritual choice that brings peace and confidence. And Islam never asks society to police women harshly; rather it appeals to their conscience and faith.

We also mentioned some miraculous aspects – like the Prophet’s foresight of immodesty in the future – which reaffirm that these rules are divinely guided, not man-made biases. The consistency of modest dress among righteous women historically and the positive experiences of women who practice hijab all point to the beautiful truth in this teaching.

In the end, modesty in Islam is holistic. It’s about clothing our hearts with godliness, and as a result, clothing our bodies in a way that reflects that godliness. A society where women are valued for their intellect and piety, and men and women interact with modesty and respect, is a society that truly upholds women’s honor (and men’s honor too).

Islam presents this vision in a straightforward, actionable way: a dress code paired with moral etiquette. This is far superior to a society with no boundaries, which often leads to confusion, exploitation, and broken relationships – as we see in many places where the hookup culture or pervasive pornography have harmed the fabric of family life. Islam says: honor each other, respect privacy, channel sexual desires into marriage, and let modesty be your guard. This is how Islam protects the family and soul, which is ultimately far more liberating and progressive for humanity.

For those who want to learn more or delve deeper, we recommend some excellent books (by scholars) below. They cover the philosophy of hijab, its legal aspects, and inspiring stories of modesty. We pray that this article has shed light on the wisdom and beauty behind why Muslim women cover more. May it increase understanding and respect, and may it be a means of da‘wah – inviting hearts to appreciate the truth of Islam. In a world that often commodifies women, Islam says women are to be cherished. That is the true liberation that hijab symbolizes.

Recommended Books on Modesty and Hijab (Further Reading)