Fulfilling Our Sacred Duties as Muslimahs: Embracing the Divine Call to Purpose and Modesty

 

Despite being Muslim, we women desire freedom.

But what exactly do we seek freedom from? 

From our faith, ourselves, or Allah? 

We might achieve freedom from our faith or ourselves, but we can never attain freedom from Allah's sight. 

The freedom Islam has granted to women—if women still demand more freedom beyond that, then they are not seeking freedom but their own destruction. 

Our society has ingrained in our minds a distorted notion of freedom: that you are only free if you roam around in revealing clothes or without a hijab; otherwise, you are a prisoner.

So, let’s see what Allah Almighty says about this matter.

The Quran, in Surah Al-Ahzab, declares 

“You are not like anyone among women,” 

33:32

addressing the elevated status of Muslim women and setting a profound example for us to follow. This verse, though revealed in the context of the Mothers of the Believers (Ummahatul Mumineen), is not exclusive to them. The Quran is a universal guide, and every command within it, including those given to the Prophet’s wives, serves as a beacon for all Muslim women. To dismiss these verses as inapplicable is to overlook the divine wisdom meant for our growth and salvation. The lives of the Sahabiyat (female companions) and the Mothers of the Believers are not distant ideals but practical models for us to emulate.

Allah further commands in Surah Al-Ahzab

“O Prophet, tell your wives and your daughters and the women of the believers to bring down over themselves [part] of their outer garments. That is more suitable because they will be known and not be abused. And ever is Allah Forgiving and Merciful.”

33:59

This verse explicitly includes all Muslim women, not just the Prophet’s household, in the obligation of hijab. Yet, some argue that niqab or modest covering applies only to the Mothers of the Believers. Such interpretations risk diluting Allah’s clear guidance. The hijab is not merely a cloth but a shield of dignity and identity. When we wear it with conviction, it commands respect—first from ourselves, then from others. Without self-respect for our veil, we cannot expect the world to honor it.

Sadly, the sanctity of the hijab is sometimes undermined. Social media showcases Muslim women dancing in abayas or engaging in behaviors that mock its purpose. This is not freedom but a betrayal of the veil’s honor. During the Prophet’s time, the Sahabiyat hastened to cover themselves upon the revelation of the hijab command, prioritizing obedience over worldly desires. Today, however, some view the veil as a symbol of restriction or poverty, yearning for a misguided sense of liberation. True freedom lies in submitting to Allah’s commands. As a Muslimah, going unveiled feels like a separation of soul from body—a loss of spiritual wholeness.

As daughters of Adam and members of the Prophet Muhammad’s (peace be upon him) Ummah, our duty is to follow the path of Allah and His Messenger. The lives of Hazrat Khadija, Hazrat Aisha, and the Sahabiyat should inspire us more than fictional characters like those in novels such as Peer-e-Kamil. While stories of “Salar” and “Imama” captivate young women, the Seerah of the Prophet (peace be upon him) and the resilience of his companions offer far greater lessons. Why are we quick to admire fictional heroes but hesitant to emulate the real super woman of Islam?

The modern world, especially university and college environments, poses unique challenges for Muslim girls. Hostel life, without self-control and patience, can lead to following Satan’s whispers, clouding judgment and derailing one’s path. If we aspire to marry men of character—like the Sahaba or the Prophet himself—we must cultivate the qualities of Hazrat Khadija’s steadfastness, Hazrat Aisha’s loyalty, and Hazrat Fatima’s obedience. This requires abandoning actions that displease Allah, understanding the distinction between halal and haram, and facing trials with patience and unity rather than complaints.

Our ultimate purpose as Muslimahs is to obey Allah and spread His message. In an era where social media encourages shameless displays—such as sharing intimate life details or exposing one’s body—we must exercise caution. The Quran emphasizes modesty, yet some women disregard this in pursuit of fleeting validation. Islam does not restrict women’s education or mobility; it elevates them as the foundation of society. An educated Muslimah, grounded in Islamic knowledge, strengthens her community. However, the pursuit of worldly education must not come at the cost of faith. Many girls, sent to universities with their parents’ trust and sacrifices, stray into harmful influences, breaking hearts and futures.

To safeguard our Deen, parents and girls must prioritize safety and accountability. Education up to a bachelor’s level can often be pursued locally, with university considered later under careful supervision. In unfamiliar settings, sharing locations with family and avoiding risky companies are prudent steps, especially in challenging environments like India. Obedience to parents before marriage and to husbands afterward, as commanded by Allah, is not confinement but a path to righteousness.

As Muslimahs, we have a duty to guide our sisters who have strayed. Rather than judging, we should gently lead them back to Allah’s path, holding their hands with compassion. Our Deen is not a burden but a source of true freedom, grounding us in purpose and protecting us from the chaos of misguidance.

Let’s pray together 

O Allah, guide all Muslim women to walk steadfastly on Your straight path and fully embrace their Deen. Protect them under Your care, grant them strength to uphold their faith, and make them beacons of righteousness. 

Ameen!

Jazakumullau khairan katheera