How can I talk to my parents about wanting to wear the niqab?
Assalamu alaikum - I’ve been thinking a lot about wearing the niqab and I’m looking for ways to discuss it with my parents without causing too much upset. When I first mentioned it, my mum brought up several concerns: she worries I might have a harder time getting married, that it would limit activities I enjoy (like swimming), that it could make finding work tougher, that I’m not “pretty enough” so it’s unnecessary, and that I should enjoy my youth and femininity. My dad was more short and said, “If you wear it, you won’t be able to take it off later.” I already wear the hijab and follow the opinion that face and hands are not awrah, but I’ve always felt drawn to the niqab. Mum even opposed a black jilbab because she thinks it looks like Shia dress, and she’s more comfortable if I wear a dress or something colourful. I really want to wear the niqab, but I don’t want to hurt her or create big family tension. Any practical advice on how to bring this up calmly, reassure her about marriage, work, and activities, and explain my reasons in a gentle way? Tips for compromises, timing of the conversation, or things to say from an Islamic perspective would be so helpful. JazakAllah khair for any suggestions. ♡