Hijab in Western Societies

Question

Assalamualaikum Warahmatullah
I do understand the description of hijab in the Quran. However due to some past and present experiences my mother has an aversion towards people who do hijab. Whenever I try to tell her that I want to put on the headscarf, she completely loses her mind. She also fears for may safety and security in the current circumstances. Another fear she has is that I may not get my desired job or it may hamper my growth in my chosen field of education i.e. Medical Sciences.
How do I convince her to let me wear a headscarf? When I try to explain, she becomes angry and says I can do whatever I like but it is clear that she is hurt.
All these things affect me because at some point it starts shaking my beliefs and I am not absolutely confident of my wishes anymore. I have forever looked for approval in my mother's eyes but even the mere discussion of this topic irritates her.
I am married. My mother in law says we should adjust according to the place of residence and if there are security issues, Allah Subhanahu Wa Ta&lsquo;ala will understand and forgive. She has clearly asked me not to wear hijab in public. My husband also has many fears and insecurities about this topic but he says he will support my decision whatever it may be.
What should I do in this situation?

Shariah Board of America · Accepted Answer

Walaikumassalam Warahmatullah
First of all we make dua for you that may Allah Subhanahu Wa Ta&lsquo;ala give you steadfastness and courage, succeed you in your aspirations and give you tawfeeq to follow the exalted teachings of Islam. As far as performing the hijab and its effect on not being able to find a job is concerned, you should remember that your protection and your rizq both are responsibilities that are with Allah Subhanahu Wa Ta&lsquo;ala. We can see in the society, there are so many people without hijab, neither their honor is safe from the evil eyes of the fussaq and adulterers, nor they are employed. If we observe carefully, true protection and safeguarding is in wearing hijab. Allah Subhanahu Wa Ta&lsquo;ala has kept the earning with respect and honor in only following the exalted teachings of Islam. Regarding this topic, we would recommend that you do not focus on the statements from your mother and mother-in-law, try and counsel them with kindness and remain steadfast on the commandments of Allah Subhanahu Wa Ta&lsquo;ala. It is a hadith of Rasulullah Sallallaho Alyhi Wasallam:
لا طاعۃ لمخلوق فی معصیۃ الخالق
Which means one cannot obey the creation by disobeying the creator.
Therefore, keep the commandments and pleasure of Allah Subhanahu Wa Ta&lsquo;ala first and foremost, you are answerable to Him and not your mother on the day of judgement. May Allah Subhanahu Wa Ta&lsquo;ala give all of us hidayat.
واللہ اعلم بالصوابFatawa ID: 100