By Arooj Farooq Akhoon
Modesty is not just a personal trait; it is a branch of faith and an essence unmatched in the world. In Islam, modesty is described as “the domain of faith”—a foundational element of a believer’s character. It is through modesty that a person preserves their humanity. When modesty is lost, so too is the distinction between human values and animal instincts.
Many assume modesty is solely defined by clothing, particularly for women. However, true modesty emanates from the heart. It is not about fabric alone, but about intentions, behavior, and awareness of one’s inner self. Unfortunately, in today’s society, modest dressing is sometimes misused as a shield to hide inappropriate behavior, thus distorting the true meaning of modesty.
A truly modest girl—or boy—is one who has a pure heart, a conscious soul, and a sincere concern for themselves and those around them. Once modesty is cultivated within, outward appearances become secondary. Modesty teaches us how to carry ourselves with dignity and how to recognize the boundaries of respect in all interactions.
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In earlier times, modesty was taken very seriously. It was considered the foundation of a dignified life. Children would not even raise their eyes to look directly at their parents, out of profound respect and humility. This internalized modesty fostered deep respect for elders and compassion for the young.
The key to developing such modesty lies in the teachings of Islam and the Quran. The deeper we immerse ourselves in the divine guidance of Islam, the more we come to understand the purity and power of modesty. Islam purifies the soul and removes negative influences from the mind and heart. Through modesty, we nurture humility, kindness, and respect within ourselves and our communities.
Modesty is a blessing that cultivates reverence for parents and gentleness with teachers. A modest person—whether man or woman—is loved by people and favored by Allah. In Islamic tradition, the modest child, boy or girl, is among Allah’s most beloved creations.
The Quran beautifully captures this concept. In Surah Al-Ahzab (33:35), it praises those—both men and women—who possess the quality of Haya (modesty, humility, and bashfulness). In Surah An-Nur (24:30), believers are advised to lower their gaze and guard their modesty, highlighting the deep respect and boundaries required in relationships between men and women.
As one profound saying reflects:
A woman should not be like the moon, which everyone sees uncovered, but like the sun, whose brilliance demands humility even in sight.
Modesty is not a burden; it is a jewel. Adorn it with pride and let it guide your soul.
Note: This is an opinion piece authored by the writer. Asian News Hub does not necessarily endorse the views expressed. The author can be reached at akhoonarooj@gmail.com
