Voice of British Muslim Women

Sameea Jonnud, Aldershot, UK

One of the questions that most often get asked of Muslim women is why they wear the headscarf; those who disagree with it claim it is forced on women and unnecessary in the modern world. Another is why in Islam women can’t shake the hand of men in greeting; here accusations of disrespecting Western culture are laid. Similarly segregation is a topic that often arises with claims that Muslim women are shut away and Islam is a backward religion for enforcing it. Many a time just because women are not shown in photographs with men, reports of segregated events have been greeted with the demand “where are the women?” as if women are locked away at home not allowed to venture forth into the world.

The Holy Qur’an is filled with wise guidelines for men and women, designed to lead to a pure and happy society. It says to men in Chapter 24, verse 31:

“Say to the believing men that they restrain their eyes and guard their private parts. That is purer for them. Surely, Allah is well aware of what they do.”

Islam advocates the separation of men and women outside immediate family members unless necessary, for example for education, medical attention or in the workplace etc; in these cases men are required to lower their gaze and women to dress modestly and cover their heads. While following these requirements women are able to excel in their studies and jobs as well as leading full lives. If women themselves are asked about sitting separately from men they will tell you they feel a sense of comfort, safety and freedom in an area men are restricted from entering and so can relax and enjoy time with other women.

On the topic of segregation Hadhrat Mirza Masroor Ahmad, worldwide spiritual leader of the Ahmadiyya Muslim Community has said:

“If you do not wish to mingle freely with men or to sit alongside them it is your own choice, made of your own volition, in order to preserve your honour and dignity. If you do not choose to shake the hands of men, it is because your heart demands that you follow Islam’s teachings, which provide true dignity for women. Such conduct is not based on the demands of men but is the result of your freedom to make your own decisions and is a symbol of true independence.”
(Address at Lajna Ima’illah UK Ijtema, 24th September 2017)

Last year evidence emerged in the U.S. of allegations of assault and misogynistic behaviour in high political echelons including derogatory comments regarding women which were dismissed as “locker room banter”. In the past few weeks the media has been filled with new stories emerging regularly of assault and inappropriate behaviour by men. This torrent began with allegations concerning Hollywood figures and have quickly escalated to include many other men including politicians in the UK. What has become of respect and the dignity of women when men feel it acceptable to behave inappropriately towards women they mix with?

In the world today, as is currently being shown in recent news stories, it has become clear that women are often finding themselves in working or social situations ranging from uncomfortable to dangerous. Women need to feel safe which is not always the case. Does all this not illustrate that criticism of Islamic principles is wholly unfounded and that there is great wisdom behind the teachings of Islam?