Answered by Ustadha Zaynab Ansari, SunniPath Academy Teacher
I have been doing some research on the Islamic religion and came upon your website and was wondering if you could answer a question. I am not Muslim but my fiancé is, he says because I am not Muslim I do not have to wear Hijab if we marry. He says the choice is mine but he hopes that I will. I think I should do as he wishes as I know it would please him and as a Christian woman we believe as Muslim women do that the man is the head of the household, but would it be somehow be an “insult” to Muslims if I, a non-Muslim, wore hijab?
In the Name of Allah, the Beneficent, the Merciful.
Praise be to Allah. May the peace and blessings of Allah shower upon our Beloved Messenger.
I commend you for researching your fiancé’s religion. I’m sure this will contribute to an enhanced understanding between the two of you. Your fiancé is correct–as a Christian, you are not required to observe hijab. However, if you plan on raising your children as Muslims, you will definitely want some understanding of the concept.
If you were to cover, it would not be insulting to Muslims. To the contrary, many Muslims would automatically assume that you were Muslim. Please realize that by wearing hijab, you will be perceived by Muslim and non-Muslim alike to be a Muslim woman. So be ready for some curiosity from fellow non-Muslims. Perhaps wearing the hijab will give you a unique perspective and an opportunity to empathize with Muslim women that would not be available to you if you did not choose this step.
And Allah alone gives success. And Allah knows best.
Umm Salah (Zaynab Ansari)