Constructing a New Understanding of Hijab

Abstract

The veil wearing by Muslim women or known as hijab remains embedded in Islamic principles but is gradually changing from its conventional form. From traditionally plain black has transformed in different colors and design. This study focused to the evolution of understanding of hijab. In addition, it aimed to know how hijab and fashion come together to maintain the original meaning of hijab despite its new context The study collected data from the 30 participants who are Filipino Maranao Muslim women. Fifteen Muslim women were wearing traditional hijab, specifically black and the other fifteen in non-traditional way.This study focused to the evolution of understanding of hijab. In addition, it aimed to know how hijab and fashion come together to maintain the original meaning of hijab despite its new context. The study collected data from the 30 participants who are Filipino Maranao Muslim women. Fifteen Muslim women were wearing traditional hijab, specifically black and the other fifteen in non-traditional way. This study utilized semi-structured interview to obtain data. This study had found hijab still signify as a Muslim identity and religious practice. Also, the fact that most of the Muslim women in this study continue to wear hijab despite being discriminated proved that the reasons of wearing hijab is still the religion. Furthermore, the study discovered that hijab and fashion coexist as long as it adhered to the Islamic principles. In brief, the sanctity of hijab remains.