The issue of women covering their faces, modesty, and interaction with non-Mahram (those outside the close family circle) is rooted in the Quran, Sunnah, and the principles of Islamic jurisprudence. Let’s break down the background, reasoning, and implications of this ruling.

1. Historical Context and Wisdom Behind Covering the Face

In early Islamic society, modesty was a key element in distinguishing Muslim women and protecting them from harm. As you mentioned, some non-Muslims would taunt Muslim women when they went out. The covering of the face (commonly referred to as niqab) served several purposes:

   •   Anonymity and Protection: It ensured that women could go out without being identified or harassed.
   •   Preserving Modesty and Honor: The veil became a means of shielding women’s beauty from the gaze of those outside their immediate family (non-Mahram).
   •   Social Identity and Religious Expression: Muslim women covering themselves signaled their submission to Allah’s commandments, marking their commitment to modesty as prescribed in Islam.

2. The Role of the Curtain (Hijab) for the Wives of the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH)

The wives of the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) were held to the highest standards of modesty, as they were known as the Mothers of the Believers (Ummahat al-Mu’mineen). Allah commanded a curtain (hijab) to separate them from non-Mahram men to preserve their dignity and ensure respect.

This command is based on the following verse:

“And when you ask [his wives] for something, ask them from behind a partition. That is purer for your hearts and their hearts.” (Quran, 33:53)

This instruction is specific to the wives of the Prophet (PBUH) but carries general guidance for all Muslim men and women regarding modest interaction. The principle of minimizing unnecessary interaction with non-Mahram individuals is derived from this verse.

3. The Purpose and Requirement of a Partition (Curtain)

   •   Purity of Intentions: The curtain or barrier between men and women was introduced to safeguard both parties from any inappropriate thoughts or desires.
   •   Reducing Fitnah (Temptation): Islam seeks to limit situations that could lead to temptation or wrongdoing. The curtain serves as a preventive measure.
   •   Maintaining Boundaries in Communication: The wives of the Prophet (PBUH) would interact with non-Mahram men only when necessary, and always from behind a partition. This practice underscores the importance of maintaining clear boundaries in public and private interactions.

4. Does This Requirement Apply to All Muslims Until the Last Day?

Islamic rulings derived from the Quran and Sunnah are timeless and cannot be changed to accommodate modern social norms. However, scholars have identified two types of rulings in Islam:

   •   Fixed Rulings (Ahkam Thabitah): These are unchangeable, such as the obligations of prayer, fasting, and hijab.
   •   Contextual Rulings (Ahkam Mutaghayyirah): These rulings may vary based on circumstances, provided they do not contradict the core principles of Islam.

The ruling on modest interaction, including the hijab and maintaining a barrier between men and women, is considered a fixed ruling. While some aspects of its application (e.g., using physical partitions) may depend on context, the core principle of modesty and boundary maintenance remains applicable until the Last Day. Modern changes in culture or lifestyle do not alter the fundamental requirements of modesty in Islam, as Allah’s laws are eternal and perfect.

5. Is Face Covering (Niqab) Required for All Muslim Women?

There is a scholarly difference of opinion on whether the niqab (face covering) is obligatory or recommended:

   •   Obligatory View: Some scholars argue that since the wives of the Prophet (PBUH) covered their faces, it becomes a general obligation for all Muslim women. This view also emphasizes the need for extra protection in times of moral decay.
   •   Recommended View: Other scholars maintain that the niqab is highly recommended but not mandatory. They argue that the essential obligation is to cover the body except for the face and hands, as derived from the hadith of Asma bint Abu Bakr, who showed only her hands and face in front of the Prophet (PBUH).

6. Conclusion: Applying the Ruling in Modern Times

The requirement for modest behavior, including the use of a partition or curtain in certain interactions, remains relevant today. While the exact practice (like using a physical curtain) may vary, the underlying principle of maintaining modesty and boundaries applies universally.

The laws of Allah are not subject to change with societal trends. Modesty, including wearing the hijab and maintaining appropriate boundaries with non-Mahram individuals, remains essential for Muslims today, just as it was at the time of the Prophet (PBUH). Muslims are encouraged to uphold these values, trusting in the wisdom and perfection of Allah’s guidance.

Verse 33:59
“O Prophet, tell your wives and your daughters and the women of the believers to draw their outer garments over themselves. That is more suitable so that they will be recognized and not abused. And ever is Allah Forgiving and Merciful.”

1. Context of the Verse

This verse was revealed in Medina when Muslim society was becoming more organized, and new ethical and social rules were established. At that time, Muslim women were subjected to harassment by some individuals who aimed to harm or mock them. This verse provides guidance on how women can protect themselves from such mistreatment while publicly maintaining their identity as believing women.

2. Breakdown and Meaning of the Verse

a. “O Prophet, tell your wives and your daughters and the women of the believers…”

The instruction is directed to the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) to address not only his household but also all believing women. This establishes that the command applies universally to all Muslim women, ensuring that it is not restricted to the Prophet’s family. It emphasizes that every believing woman is included in this guidance, regardless of her status or relation to the Prophet.

b. “To draw their outer garments over themselves…”

The phrase refers to the command for women to wear an outer garment, such as a cloak or large covering, when they are in public. This garment serves to conceal their bodies and appearance, minimizing attention from non-related men (non-Mahram). The goal is to protect a woman’s modesty and prevent any inappropriate interaction or objectification.

The outer garment mentioned here is intended to cover a woman’s beauty and prevent her from drawing unnecessary attention. While the specific type of garment may vary by culture, the essence remains that it should ensure modesty by concealing the shape and adornments of the body.

c. “That is more suitable so that they will be recognized and not abused…”

This part of the verse highlights the dual purpose of the outer garment:

   •   Recognition: By dressing modestly, believing women are identified as followers of Islamic teachings. This public display of faith serves as a marker of their identity and commitment to Allah’s commands.
   •   Protection from Abuse: The verse acknowledges a social reality where women might face harassment. Dressing in a modest and dignified manner helps reduce unwanted attention, serving as a deterrent against those who may wish to harm or harass.

This guidance reflects the wisdom of protecting women in public spaces and ensuring that their safety and dignity are upheld.

d. “And ever is Allah Forgiving and Merciful.”

The verse concludes with a reminder that Allah is Forgiving and Merciful. This indicates that even if someone has previously fallen short of observing these guidelines, they can seek forgiveness and start anew by adhering to Allah’s commandments.

3. Key Lessons and Principles from the Verse

1. Modesty as a Universal Principle:
The command for women to wear an outer garment reflects the importance of modesty in Islam, not only for spiritual reasons but also for practical social benefits.
2. Public Identity as a Believing Woman:
The verse encourages Muslim women to be proud of their faith and identity, using modest dress as a means to represent their commitment to Islamic values.
3. Protection and Safety:
Islam recognizes the need for practical measures to ensure women’s safety in society. Dressing modestly is part of the larger framework of maintaining dignity and avoiding situations that could lead to harm or harassment.
4. Timeless Application:
While the style of clothing may differ across cultures and contexts, the principle of modesty remains applicable for all times and places. The goal is to fulfill the spirit of the command by dressing in a way that maintains modesty and reduces exposure to inappropriate behavior.

4. Practical Implications for Today

   •   Flexibility in Attire: The verse provides the general command to wear an outer garment, but it does not prescribe a specific style or fabric. Muslim women can adopt clothing appropriate to their culture as long as it ensures modesty and covers the required parts of the body.
   •   Addressing Modern Challenges: The principle of modesty remains relevant, even in modern societies where social norms may differ. Muslim women are encouraged to adhere to Islamic guidelines and avoid compromising their values under societal pressure.
   •   Recognition and Empowerment: Wearing modest attire is not just a form of protection but also a way for Muslim women to proudly express their faith and identity, challenging societal expectations that focus on physical appearance.

5. Conclusion

Surah Al-Ahzab, verse 59, provides clear guidance on modesty and protection for Muslim women. The verse emphasizes the importance of covering the body with an outer garment to safeguard dignity, prevent harassment, and publicly identify oneself as a believer. The command remains relevant for all times, reminding Muslims that Allah’s laws are timeless and beneficial. While specific styles of modest clothing may vary, the underlying principle of modesty and protection remains essential for Muslim women in every era. This verse reflects Allah’s care and mercy, guiding believers toward a life of honor, safety, and spiritual fulfillment.