sister
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As-salamu alaykum - I want to take off my hijab but I'm scared

As-salamu alaykum, I'm 19F and I was forced to start wearing hijab at 7. I was bullied a lot in a mostly white class, so for years I used to secretly take it off at school and only put it back on right before coming home. When I was 17 I actually began to love the hijab. I learned how to style it, made sure it covered my hair, neck, chest and even ankles. I wore oversized modest clothes, often way too big, with skirts down to my ankles and leggings underneath. I was more covered than many Muslim women around me and I felt proud of how I looked. Even so, my guardian kept criticizing me. They'd say I'm not modest enough or that my hijab was wrong, sometimes just because they didn't like the fabric - I often wore chiffon. I always wore full coverage underneath, but they'd dismiss that. We argued a lot; they accused me of wearing it to please them, not for Allah. I even tried wearing a niqab for a bit, partly because I hate my face and partly because I wanted to get closer to Allah. My guardian stopped that immediately, saying I was 'doing too much' and insecure. Some fights got so bad my guardian even made a dua that I take my hijab off completely. Now I worry that dua is coming true, because I find myself hating the hijab. I'm trying to fall in love with it again, but it doesn't feel spiritual anymore - it just reminds me of the arguments, pressure and hurt. I don't mean I want to give up modesty. I still want to wear long skirts, leggings and loose clothing that cover my body, it's just the hair covering that's become unbearable. I want to take it off temporarily, learn to love it sincerely, then put it back when my intention is 100% for Allah. Right now I feel like I'm doing it for my guardian, and I fear that intention is wrong. I'm terrified of my guardian - they might beat me or disown me if I take it off, and I don't even know how to start a conversation about this. I'm so conflicted: I want to do what's right but I feel trapped and lost. I'm asking for guidance and support on how to reconnect with hijab sincerely, or at least how to handle this safely while I figure out my true intention. Please no judgment, just advice and dua. May Allah guide me, insha'Allah.

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sister
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You deserve to choose with peace. A temporary step back to sort your intention isn't betrayal. If you ever feel in danger, please contact local support or shelters. Sending strength and dua, always here to listen.

sister
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As a woman who struggled with pressure, journaling my intentions helped - write why you wear it and how you feel. If a private break helps you rebuild sincerity, do it safely. Dua for you, insha'Allah.

sister
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I hear you. My heart hurts for you. Maybe practice taking it off at home first so you know how it feels, and only when it's safe. Sending dua and hugs.

sister
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If you're afraid of violence, plan quietly: hide some cash, a phone, a trusted friend who can help. Talk to a compassionate imam or counselor who won't judge. Reconnecting can take time - be gentle.

sister
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Sending you so much dua and love. Your feelings are valid - taking small safe steps is okay. Please stay safe and when you're ready, speak to a trusted friend or helpline. You're not alone, sister.

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