Veiled: Perspectives 1 | Page 9

Introduction Hijab is not merely a headscarf draped around a woman’s hair covering her shoulders and chest, hijab is a concept with a greater underlying message. It is both a way of life and a belief in Islam. It is important to understand that not all Muslims chose to cover with the veil. The choice in wearing the veil exists for different reasons amongst different people engaging in the practice. The reading of the Qur’an can vary from person to person. Islam is not a religion of boundaries. Every part of the religious text can be dependent on the situation and the individual(s) involved. The practice of Islam is different for every Muslim as in every other religion. Modesty is not only represented by dress, it’s a concept that lies within personality, actions, and intentions. Note: ‘Veil’ is used in this text as the universal term to define the various forms of covering oneself, in specifically for religious reasons of modesty such as the hijāb, niqāb, chādor, etc. II