Last week a ruling by the Supreme Court that gave schools the discretion to make rules on their own dress code in relation to the wearing of hijabs by Muslim students continues to elicit sharp reactions.
Muslim leaders have come out to condemn the ruling which they term as unconstitutional.
The leaders and politicians argue that the ruling discriminates against Muslim girls and wants it reviewed.
Garissa Township MP Aden Duale is among leaders who have condemned the ruling.
Duale has asked Muslim women and especially school girls to ignore the ruling.
The Garissa MP wants the court to respect Muslims and review the decision.
As the debate on hijabs goes on, here is a look at what a hijab is and its relevance or significance among Muslims.
Hijab is an Arabic word that means ‘to cover’ or ‘modest’.
It is clothing which covers a woman's chest, head, and hair.
It is worn mostly by Muslim women.
Some countries have adopted the clothing in their legislation while others have imposed a ban on it.
Here is why it is important:
1. Religious symbol
According to Islam, hijab represents a woman’s submission to her creator and her connection to the faith.
It is believed that when a Muslim woman wears a hijab, she is obeying and submitting to ‘Allah’.
2. Liberation from selfish desire
Muslims believe that a woman who wears hijab liberates herself from selfish desire.
It is a sign of respect and good religious morals.
Early this month, Illan Omar, the 5th Representative of Minnesota District in the United States became the first Muslim woman to wear a hijab on the floor of the US House of Representatives.
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