Why a Mother Might Let Her 5-Year-Old Daughter Wear a Hijab

Why do you have a problem with that? If the girl wants to wear the hijab, then let her. It never did any harm to anyone and actually, it's good that she starts wearing it from a very early age so that she gets used to it when it's compulsory for her. I started wearing the hijab when I was 10 years old, and now I’m so used to it since I've been wearing it for 3 years. I don't even feel comfortable taking it off.

Childhood and Muslim Girls

Often, there's a debate about whether Muslim girls should start wearing the hijab at a young age. The question arises if early adoption of hijab is appropriate and beneficial. Ignorance of Islam's rules only holds true when a girl reaches puberty as is when a hijab becomes a dietary requirement in many Muslim communities.

It's a widely known fact that girls and women are more vulnerable to rape and sexual abuse compared to boys and men. The hijab, in many interpretations, represents an attempt to combat this by suggesting that women cover themselves as a protective measure. The assumption is that without the hijab, a woman might 'ask for' or invite such situations.

There's often a perception that adhering to the hijab is a result of strict religious upbringing and lack of education or freedom of thought. However, there are also deeply rooted cultural norms and family traditions that contribute to this practice. In this context, logic and critical thinking sometimes take a back seat.

On the other hand, some argue that better wearing a hijab out of choice than dealing with the consequences of not adhering to it, such as punishment by one's husband.

The Significance of Hijab Beyond Cloth

Hijab is not just a piece of cloth; it's a symbol that encompasses a multitude of values and beliefs. It's deeply connected to the concept of haya, which is often translated as 'shyness' in Islam. The Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) said that haya is a part of faith.

Haya is more complex than just shyness. It's a quality that involves modesty and a sense of social responsibility. When a mother allows her daughter to wear a hijab at an early age, she's teaching her a virtue that can protect her in many ways. This early introduction allows the child to internalize these values naturally, ensuring they are well-protected as she grows up.

Preservation Over Cure

By introducing hijab to her daughter through a gentle and loving approach, a mother is nurturing a quality that is believed to be crucial for her daughter's development. The idea is that preservation is often better than curing issues that arise later in life. If a Muslim woman is teaching her daughter about hijab from an early age, she is fostering a sense of self-respect and social awareness.

It's also worth noting that many girls who wear hijab still exhibit the essence of haya in other aspects of their personality. Their way of speaking and carrying themselves shows an intrinsic sense of modesty that is cherished in Islamic teachings.

Conclusion

It is not unusual for some to question the wisdom of a mother allowing her 5-year-old daughter to wear a hijab, but there is a profound reasoning behind this practice. If a child wants to wear it on her own because she sees her mother and others wearing it with dignity and grace, there's no harm in supporting her decision. Shielding a young girl with the protective elements of haya is seen as a caring and responsible act.