Hijab: A Comprehensive Term

thereof, and they should fold their shawls over their bosoms.” (24:31) At the end of the above verse, believers are asked to ‘turn to God, every one of you, so that you may prosper. There are two other verses of the Quran in this regard: “Do not flaunt your charms as in the former times of ignorance.” (33: 33) “men and women who guard their chastity, men and women who are ever mindful of God—God is ready with forgiveness and an immense reward.” (33:35) There are broad principles for a modest dress code for both men and women in Islam. Additionally, there is practical advice regarding those actions that threaten the quality of modesty among people. Islam is strict about the free mixing of men and women in an atmosphere of partying and entertainment, as it is a cause of promiscuity that leads to permissiveness. In such a society, one’s loyalties keep changing. Hijab is pivotal to this. Hijab in Islam extends to our character and thinking, which no one can know except God. The Prophet Muhammad said, “Only a man of noble character will honour women, and only a man of base intentions will dishonour them.” (Ibn Asakir, Tarikh Dimashq, Vol. 13, p. 313) In another of his teachings, the Prophet encouraged believers to select their spouses based on piety. Simplicity, dignified behaviour,