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Women wearing the niqaab

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Q. I am to be married in a few months, insha Allah. I presently wear hijab, covering my head and bosom area. However, I am trying to understand clearly, why should I wear a niqab rather than a hijab? Which is proper or correct, with regards to the sunnah? What causes Muslim women in our country (Trinidad) to lean toward that decision for niqab, as opposed to hijab?

Please, can you explain, since I want to do the correct thing with regards to the sunnah, for fear that Allah might be displeased with me for doing a halfway job. My soon-to-be husband says that in time I will make the decision myself when I realise how important concealment is for women, and I am happy with his patience for me to make my decision. I want your guidance on the matter though, please.


A. The law of Niqaab has been given in the Holy Quran and the wives of the Prophet (SAS) as well as the women during his time used to wear it. However, along with this, an allowance has been given in the Holy Quran for a woman to leave her face and hands up to the wrists uncovered.

Based on this, you will find that some women wear Niqaab, which is indeed the best, while others chose to practice the allowance of wearing a ‘hijab’ where the face remains uncovered.

Once you are ready to wear the Niqaab, then you should go ahead and do it, since this is the best, which is more rewarding and virtuous.

And Allah knows best.

Mufti Waseem Khan

This answer was collected from DarulUloomTT.net, which is operated under the supervision of Mufti Waseem Khan from Darul Uloom Trinidad and Tobago.

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