Question:

In recent times, there have been incidents of Muslim females being banned from soccer games because they wear headscarves. The reason stated by authorities is that it is a safety issue in that if a headscarf is pulled during play it may choke the wearer. I'm confused as to how we should view this. I agree that there definitely are bad non-Muslims out there who are always after Islam and its signs, May Allah(SWT) guide them.

But in this particular case, wouldn't it be correct to say that Muslim Females shouldn't be playing soccer in an environment which requires wearing Hijab and if they're playing soccer in an all-female environment there is no need to wear it, right?

I just feel that sometimes our Muslims behave irresponsibly (stemming from a misunderstanding from Islam's own teachings) which causes Islaam to be in the media for all the wrong reasons.

In this particular case, looking at it from a higher-level I think the only reason Hijab is attracting criticism (i.e. safety/choking issues)is because it is being practiced in the wrong way(perhaps against Shariah itself)by muslim sisters who have the misconception that if they have a headscarf on they can participate in all kinds of activities which is not true because there are a lot of other things to be weighed.

Answer:

I agree wth much of what you have written, and there is a great need for sisters and brothers to be educated about the basic teachings of Islam. On the issue of games, there is a need for all Muslims to keep themselves fit and healthy as the body we have is not ours and is a trust from Allah taala, thus we must look after it and give its due right. It follows that sisters should participate in such games, but it must be ensured that the area is secure from the view of people from whom Hijab is necessary. Thus provided the latter requirement is meant and those playing football etc. are all Muslim females, then there is no sin in removing the Hijab.

Mufti Mohammed Sajjad

Wallahu Aalam bis-sawab

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The answer to this question is the opinion of the scholar and does not reflect the opinion of other scholars of As-Suffa Institute and As-Suffa Institute as an organisation.