” approached Hazrat Moses(as) with Haya and hesitancy.Pertaining to the importance of the role of mothers in the moral training of Ahmadi girls, Huzoor Anwar(aba) brought the attention of mothers towards inculcating Haya (modesty) in girls from a young age, so that consequently, they are encouraged to adopt modest attire. Therefore, Huzoor Anwar(aba) remarked:
“Living in this society, we should try to instill the concept of Hijab, Purda and Haya in our women and girls. If there is a hesitancy in any girl to wear a modest Hijab, mothers should reassure her or she should try to remove the hesitancy herself if she is of such age. If mothers do not inculcate the awareness of Haya in girls aged eleven or twelve, then they will not have this awareness when they grow older.
Hence, in this society where each nude and shameless thing is taught at school, more than ever before, Ahmadi mothers need to educate their children in light of Islamic teachings and the Holy Quran. They should inculcate the importance of modesty (Haya) in them from the very beginning. It should be inculcated starting from the ages around five, six, and seven. In these countries in grade four and five, children are taught things which disturb them, as I have mentioned earlier.
It is at this age, at which the element of Haya needs to be instilled in their minds. Some women or girls might think that there are other commandments of Islam as well to act upon. Will Islam be victorious by only following this one command? Remember, that no commandment of Islam is petty.” (Address to Ladies, Jalsa Salana Canada, October 8, 2016, Al-Fazl International, March 17, 2017)
In his Germany tour, Huzoor Anwar(aba) presented essential guidelines in his meeting with National Majlis ‘Amila Lajna Ima’illah Germany, pertaining to moral training and Purda. Huzoor Anwar(aba) said: “I mentioned in America how to encourage 12-year-old girls towards wearing a Hijab. I told them that a child’s moral training begins at birth. Adhan is recited in the child’s ears after birth. So, dress your child from three years of age in a manner that she feels her clothes cover her up. Then this type of attire will go along with her as she grows older and she will continue to use clothes that conceal the whole body as you had instilled this habit in her from her childhood. If you have dressed them in clothes that do not cover up their body, then the girl will continue to wear such clothes that do not completely conceal her body and at age 11-12, she will say that this is how I want to dress.”
Huzoor Anwar(aba) said: “I am asked about jeans. I always reply that it is not forbidden to wear jeans, provided the shirts are long enough to conceal your nakedness. Wearing a short shirt with jeans is not permitted.”
He further said: “One should have a sense of shame and Haya (modesty) to wear a dress which is complete and is not revealing.”
Huzoor Anwar(aba) spoke of the incident of Hazrat Moses(as) which has been mentioned in Surah Al-Qasas of the Holy Quran and related that when he(as) reached the Midian’s water-well, he watered the flock of two women and later one of them “” approached Hazrat Moses(as) with Haya and hesitancy.
Huzoor Anwar(aba) said this is true modesty. It is the duty of mothers to train their girls and ingrain this in their minds, explaining to them the pros and cons.” (Meeting National Majlis ‘Amila Lajna Ima’illah Germany, December 18, 2009, Al-Fazl International, January 29, 2010)
While guiding Ahmadi mothers towards their important responsibility of the good upbringing of their children, Syedna Hazrat Khalifatul Masih V (may Allah be his Helper) said that they need to train their daughters to observe Purda.
Huzoor Anwar(aba) stated: “Mothers who are not mindful of their children’s dress from early childhood will not be able to control them when they have grown up. Some girls have such a physique that even at ten or eleven years of age, they appear to be fourteen or fifteen years old. If mothers do not teach such girls about Haya and dignity of dress, it will never develop after they have grown up. As a matter of fact, even if a girl does not appear physically mature, if you instill the seed of Haya in them from an early age, teach them that they are Ahmadis and cannot emulate the skimpy dress of people in this society—that they have to guide the world, act upon Divine teachings bestowed upon us—and that it is against the dignity of an Ahmadi girl to wear tight jeans with a short blouse, then slowly but surely this teaching instilled in their minds from an early age will start to take effect. Therefore, by the time they reach the age of maturity, they will automatically be drawn towards wearing the Hijab or scarf and a long coat. Otherwise, they will end up in the same condition as some girls regarding whom I receive complaints, both from here and other parts of the world, that they cover their heads and dress very appropriately when they come to the mosque and attend Jama‘at events; but, when they go out elsewhere, they do not even have a Dupatta on their heads, much less a scarf. Hence, if mothers persistently draw attention of their girls—both through their own example and advice—and create awareness that our dress must be modest and that we possess a certain dignity, they and their girls will be saved from many difficulties. If we are not willing to make these minor sacrifices of our emotions, how can we offer major sacrifices?” (Address to Ladies, Jalsa Salana Canada, June 28, 2008, Al-Fazl International, July 15, 2011)
As mentioned in a blessed Hadith, there is a glad tiding that a reward of paradise lies under the feet of mothers; however, in relation to this, mothers have been assigned the duty of the proper upbringing of their children. Hence, Huzoor Anwar(aba) says:
“It is also the duty of Ahmadi mothers to raise their children in such a manner that they have firm conviction in God Almighty and to make every effort to gain His pleasure, as their first priority. And this cannot be achieved unless mothers also try their utmost to attain high standards of faith.
The heaven which has been laid under the feet of mothers is to heighten them in fear of Allah the Almighty and in faith on one hand, and on the other hand, to let their children progress in faith through their pious training. Otherwise, every mother cannot be given glad tidings of paradise. Thus, always remember the phrase of the Promised Messiah(as) that ‘I have come to strengthen faith.’” (Address to Ladies, Jalsa Salana UK, July 25, 2009, Al-Fazl International, June 21, 2013)
In one of his addresses, Hazrat Khalifatul Masih V(aba) elaborated on the close connection between fashion and immodesty and their negative impact and advised parents to instill Haya in their children and teach them to observe Purda. He(aba) said:
“Wearing revealing dress desensitizes a person towards a sense of absurdity and nudity. Parents say it is alright, they are only little girls. They are fond of fashion, let them do it, there is no harm. Fashion is fine, but fashion in clothing must be checked when it extends to nudity. If in fashion, the coat which is worn as a Burqa is so tight that it is inappropriate to go in front of men, then such fashion is not allowed. It will not be fashion anymore. It will actually be immodesty, which will gradually discard the Hijab. To observe Haya is a commandment of Islam. Thus, be mindful of your Haya and Hijab and adopt the kind of fashion that falls under these limits. Fashion is not prohibited but it has limits associated with it, so be careful. Display your fashion only at home and at women’s gatherings. Fashion must not be exhibited at markets and outdoors where one faces men, which can possibly lead to immorality without realization.” (Address to Ladies, Jalsa Salana Germany, June 11, 2006, Al-Fazl International, June 19, 2015)
Huzoor Anwar(aba) stated that following the injunctions of Allah the Almighty and His Messengersa is the only way to guarantee that future generations will be saved from useless pursuits and said:
“So, it is also the responsibility of Ahmadi mothers to monitor their children, educate them lovingly, and inculcate a sense in them from a young age that you are an Ahmadi girl or boy whose goal is to do jihad against all evil, in this day and age. And Ahmadi girls who have reached the age of awareness need to realize that they belong to the Jama‘at of the Promised Messiah(as) and their mission is to restore the pristine teachings of Islam in this world. If you are abiding by the commandments of Allah the Almighty and His Prophet(sa), then it is good. Otherwise, there is no use in belonging to the Jama‘at of the Promised Messiah(as). The girls of today are mothers of tomorrow. If these girls realize their responsibility, future generations of Ahmadiyyat will continue to be safe.” (Address to Ladies, Jalsa Salana Mauritius, December 3, 2005, Al-Fazl International, May 29, 2015)
A variety of evils happen as a result of free interactions between girls and boys. In this regard, Huzoor Anwar(aba) advised mothers to undertake their responsibilities and stated, “After a certain age, girls ought to be reserved with their male class and school mates. Whenever needed, they should talk to them while staying within limits. Girls themselves should pay attention to this and their parents, especially mothers, should watch that after a certain age, their girl is accompanied by a Mahram while going to anyone’s house, especially to a friend’s house who has a brother at home. Visiting a friend’s house when her brothers are at home should be avoided.
And at times, if not pointed out, male classmates keep visiting their homes even when they are grown up. By the grace of God, such evils are rarely seen in Ahmadi society. Majority are being safeguarded, but if left unattended, there is a possibility of escalation in evil. There is a possibility of relationships being ruined. If girls are interested in recreation, then it is the responsibility of Lajna to arrange such recreational activities everywhere. Arrangements ought to be made with a mosque or a Namaz center where Ahmadi girls can gather and organize their programs. It should be inculcated in the minds of girls from a younger age that you have honour, and society is full of sexual misconduct and you have now reached an age of awareness; therefore, you need to inculcate modesty within yourself, which will give you, your family, and the Jama‘at a good name. Then with the blessings of Allah the Exalted and seeking His pleasure, all girls will understand this and will march on the path of piety.” (Address to Ladies, Annual Ijtima‘ Lajna Ima’illah Germany, June 11, 2006, Al-Fazl International, June 19, 2015)
Similarly, Huzoor Anwar(aba) guided Ahmadi boys and girls and encouraged them to improve the level of the declining state of modesty in today’s world and said:
“The immoralities that we witness in the current society are a testament of truth to each and every word of the Promised Messiah(as). Thus, every Ahmadi boy, girl, man and woman must raise their standard of Haya in an attempt to safeguard themselves from the filth of this society rather than questioning or suffering from an inferiority complex about why is the observance of Purda necessary? And why can’t we wear tight jeans and blouses?
It is the duty of parents, particularly mothers to tell their children about Islamic teachings and the evils of society from a young age. Only then, our generations can keep their faith and be saved from the venom of this so-called progressive society. Residing in these countries, there is a dire need of Jihad by parents to keep their children close to faith and preserve their Haya. They need to be role models in this regard.” (Friday Sermon, delivered January 13, 2017 at Baitul Futuh, London, Al-Fazl International, February 3, 2017)
In order to make women successful spiritually and practically in the world, Islam has provided equal opportunities for women depending on their physical and mental faculties.
Therefore, Huzoor Anwar(aba) elucidated upon the freedom of an Ahmadi girl along with Purda and modest attire. He said:
“Similarly, I would like to talk to young girls as well since some of them may think, why are we not free in certain matters? You must always remember, you are free, but you must contain your freedom within the boundaries that Allah Almighty has specified for you. If freedom refers to unrestrained conduct of this society, then undoubtedly an Ahmadi girl is not free, nor should she chase after such freedom.
As it appears from the word of God, every action of yours is accepted by Allah the Almighty if it is within the bounds set by Him. It is narrated in a Hadith that modesty (Haya) is a part of faith. (Sahih Bukhari, Kitabul Iman, Baab Al Hayau Minal Iman; Hadith #24)
And Allah the Almighty says that each and every virtuous deed of yours is recompensed by Allah the Almighty provided you are a believer and you have faith.
Thus, every Ahmadi girl who professes love for Allah the Almighty and wishes a good recompense for her deeds must preserve her chastity. The attire of an Ahmadi girl should be modest and not such that it draws the attention of others. Your fashion must not attract strangers and other men towards you. I have come to know that some women have started wearing Burqas which have beautiful embroidery on them and some words are written on the back. Now tell me, what kind of Purda is this? Purda is to repel other’s attention from you and send a message that we have Haya. However, if Burqas are embellished with braids and fringes and words are written to draw the attention of others, then this is not Purda and such Burqas are useless.
As far as makeup is concerned, if you wish to apply makeup, you should completely conceal your face while going outside. In such a case, covering the forehead and chin is not sufficient. Full Niqab (face covering) should be worn. The coat ought to be below knee length. This is also an aspect of modesty. If you are wearing trousers or jeans, you should wear a long shirt. Some girls have misconceptions that there is no harm in wearing jeans with a t-shirt or a short blouse while at home and putting on a long coat while going outside their home. Even at home, one should wear modest and appropriate clothes in the presence of fathers and brothers.
Although Allah the Almighty has not prescribed Purda from them, He has declared that Haya is a part of faith. At times relatives drop by without prior notice. Sometimes they visit in the presence of your fathers and brothers and you may have to meet them. Thus, such attire is not appropriate for meeting them. Therefore, your clothes at home too should be modest. Although Hijab is not required and you can stay bareheaded, still your apparel must be modest. Thus, always remember that you have to safeguard your chastity so that you can safeguard the faith and you can prove the truthfulness of your claim of love for Allah the Almighty. Allah the Almighty has said that the sign of a believer is that they love Allah the most. Love of Allah demands that His commandments are obeyed and modest clothing is worn inside as well as outside of the house. This is the commandment of Allah the Almighty. After you fulfill the requirement of Haya, no one will stop you from becoming a doctor or an engineer or a teacher or any other profession which serves humanity. By fulfilling this, you are absolutely free.
Thus, every Ahmadi girl has an honour which must be taken care of. Taking care of your honour and demonstrating Haya will enable you to enjoin what is right and forbid what is reprehensible. Your own exemplary model will draw the attention of your friends towards you, thus the doors of Tabligh will open.” (Address to Ladies, Jalsa Salana Germany, June 2, 2012, Al-Fazl International, October 26, 2012)
In this regard, Huzoor Anwar(aba) elaborated to Ahmadi women that one is deprived of the reward and bounties of Allah the Almighty if one gives in to societal pressures and consequently slacks in faith and does not abide by the Quranic commandments. He said:
“No Ahmadi girl should be fearful of what people (this society) say. Nor should you be shy. The Holy Quran is the perfect Book and each of its injunctions are in accordance with human nature. It still being in its original state is a proof that it is from Allah the Almighty... But if you are not abiding by its commandments, fearing that people will laugh at you, or you do not observe Purda thinking that people will stare or tease you, then this is neither fear of God nor love for Allah the Almighty. If you have adopted some fashion because these are liked in society, such as tight and above knee length coats, then it is useless.
They promote immodesty and reveal your bodies. Thus, this is slackness of faith and deficiency in love of Allah the Almighty. Allah wants to reward His people tenfold or even greater for every virtue one does. And we are depriving ourselves of this reward by not complying with His commandments due to fear or love of the world. If this is the situation, then it is a lost bargain.
If we analyze, we come to conclude that it is certainly man himself who defies the injunctions of Allah the Almighty and thus deprives himself from the rewards which God Almighty desires to bless him with. All of this is happening under the influence of the western mindset.” (Address to Ladies, Jalsa Salana Germany, August 15, 2009, Al-Fazl International, May 2, 2014)
While addressing Ahmadi women, Huzoor Anwar(aba) advised them to shun their inferiority complex and act upon the Islamic commandments with courage.
He stated: “Now here, the excuses are being fabricated that it is very difficult to observe Purda in Europe. This is absolutely wrong. I think this is a sort of complex which men also have, along with women. You are trying to look for excuses to abandon your own teachings and please society instead of Allah the Exalted. Even in this society there are hundreds and thousands of those who observe Purda and they are looked upon with greater dignity and respect as compared to those who do not observe Purda. The societal evils are also on an increase among the non-Purda observing and their children. May Allah save us from this (predicament). Sometimes, as a result, a really deplorable situation is encountered.” (Address at Annual Ijtima‘ Lajna Ima’illah UK , October 19, 2003, Al-Fazl International, April 17, 2015)
In the same context, Huzoor Anwar(aba) addressed and advised those Ahmadi women who have recently migrated to Western countries, specifically from Pakistan and India that they should shun any types of an inferiority complex and safeguard their Purda. He said:
“I have observed that these days some asylum-seeking women from Pakistan, some of whom are coming for Jalsa, take off their Hijab soon after they exit the airport, perhaps due to some unknown complex. And the Dupatta and scarf worn by them does not, in anyway, qualify for proper Purda. It keeps coming off the head over and over. Then they have applied make up too. If, for example, a woman is a doctor or is in another profession where the traditional Niqab is impractical because of professional hindrances, she may use a scarf that covers her face as much as possible to an extent that it does not hinder her work. But In such cases, the face should not be heavily made up. Whereas when a woman, who is a housewife, and has been observing Purda in Pakistan, takes off her Niqab after coming here and applies make up too, her action cannot be called a righteous action. Such a woman may be considered to have prioritized the world over her faith instead of prioritizing her faith over the world. She is getting influenced by her environment. At times, it is shameful to see that girls and women raised in Europe observe better Purda than those who have come here from Pakistan. Most of them have more appropriate clothing than those who have come from Pakistan or India. Those who used to wear a Burqa are doing wrong if they are shunning it now under pressure from their men, as there is no need to give in to any demand of men that is contrary to the explicit commandments of Allah the Almighty. If these women are doing it of their own accord, even then it is shameful for their men who should have advised them that as an Ahmadi woman, they have dignity which should be safeguarded rather than taking her Purda off.
Thus, both men and women, having purged all sorts of complexes, should adopt this practice in purity and must safeguard their Purda. Such women and men should learn from the precedents of the women of other religions who are adopting modest clothing after embracing Ahmadiyyat. Those who were nearly bare are now in modest clothing and are trying to comply with the commandments, whereas you are taking off your modest dress and reverting to short dresses, which gradually will lead to total unveiling. With the understanding of faith, to retreat rather than to make spiritual advancement and excel in the practice of Allah’s commandments, will only mire us again into the pit of ignorance. Then one commandment after another will be ignored and generations will drift away from faith. And thus, as I have already said, generations gradually abandon religion and then are doomed to destruction.” (Address to Ladies at Jalsa Salana UK held on July 29, 2006, Al-Fazl International, June 26, 2015)
At another occasion, while advising Ahmadi women in the same context, Huzoor Anwar(aba) stated:
“Those who cast off Purda are in some sort of an inferiority complex. An Ahmadi woman should be devoid of all forms of inferiority complex. Rather, she should not have a complex at all. Be open if someone questions and let them know that expression of Purda and Haya is a fundamental divine commandment for us. I have witnessed that even in this Western environment, Purda observing women who do not have any complex are impacting the society positively due to their Purda. They are being considered as dignified. Therefore, cleanse your heart of the inferiority complex that someone is pointing a finger at you because of Purda. Maintain your identity. I have observed in Africa where clothing was not customary, they donned clothes and wore fully covered clothes, and some of them also observe Purda. A few have even started wearing the Niqab (face covering).
Here too, we have African-American sisters who are mostly visiting from the USA and some of them have such a high standard of Purda that it is worth being followed. It is exemplary. In fact, yesterday I told them in a meeting that ‘It seems that you are the ones who will establish examples of Purda for the Pakistanis or for those who are coming from India. The way they laughed and said ‘Yes, it will be so’ had me even more concerned that the examples of the lack of Purda being set by the older Ahmadis are indeed being witnessed by the new Ahmadis; this is why they responded in this manner... Let me also tell you that younger girls will not observe Purda until you set your own examples before them; until the mothers set their own examples before them. Thus, if you want to become the best assets for the Jama‘at—and bring yourself and your children under the protection of Allah the Almighty by following His commandments; make Him your Guardian and Friend; want to see the blessings of Allah the Almighty being showered upon you; want to save your sons and daughters from the filth of this society—then you will also have to observe this commandment of Allah the Almighty. May Allah enable you all to do so and may you establish (exemplary) models in everything Allah the Almighty has commanded us.” (Address to Ladies at Jalsa Salana Canada held on June 25, 2005, Al-Fazl International, March 2, 2007)
Highlighting the important aspect of maintaining a sense of Haya, Huzoor Anwar(aba) said:
“I will give an example for the women too. Purda and Haya is a state which once discarded will go beyond limits. I have come to know that when some elderly women who had newly come from Pakistan to join their children in Australia, saw that their girls are not observing Purda, they advised them to at least wear modest clothing and a scarf. To this these girls replied that it is illegal to observe Purda here, and you also have to take it off. So, being scared of the law, these elderly women who had observed Purda all their lives had to remove it, as they were scared that it is a crime. While in fact there is no such law over there, nor is it a crime. There is no restriction and neither does anyone pay attention to it. Only for the sake of fashion, some young girls and women have abandoned Purda.
A young woman from Pakistan who came to Australia after getting married wrote to me that she was also forcibly made to give up Purda or perhaps she was also influenced by the surroundings and gave it up. When I was there on a visit, she wrote that when she listened to my address to the ladies, she had her Burqa (outerwear coat) on and since then she is continuing to wear it and is firm on it and is making efforts and praying that she remains steadfast. She also requested prayers. So, Purda is being abandoned because repeated reminders are not given about this Quranic injunction, nor is it talked about in the homes. For practical reformation, it is essential to talk about vice and virtue repeatedly.” (Friday Sermon, December 20, 2013 at Baitul Futuh mosque London, Al-Fazl International, January 10, 2014)
Through his addresses and sermons, Huzoor Anwar(aba) has drawn the attention of women to his guidance about attaining the pleasure of Allah the Almighty by maintaining the spirit of Purda. At one occasion, he wrote:
“If a woman does not care about Purda and in the footsteps of Europe wears dresses similar to their attire and adopts an identical fashion, and in doing so portrays herself as enlightened and progressive, then it is a misconception. Remember that Islam is the real guarantor of your welfare and safety. It has not prescribed Purda for women to get them into any difficulty or to give them an inferiority complex. It aims to establish a woman’s dignity and respect through it. Thus, do not consider it a burden nor think that people will take you to be illiterate because of it. You have to please Allah the Almighty. Do not focus on worldly fashions and take care of Purda in accordance with all its preconditions.” (Message at Annual Ijtima‘ Lajna Ima’illah Germany 2017, Annual Report 2016-2017 Lajna Ima’illah Germany)
Prayer is very important to stay safe from satanic influences of all sorts and to spend our lives treading steadfastly on the path of piety. Therefore, Huzoor Anwar(aba) described the topic while addressing Ahmadi women, ‘to follow the commandments of Allah the Almighty with the help of prayers’ and said:
“Allah the Almighty listens to prayers and is aware of the state of hearts. Therefore, with honest intentions of achieving this objective, every Ahmadi man and woman is directed to pray to Allah the Almighty to safeguard the guidance which He bestowed upon us and to prevent satanic thoughts from overpowering us. If this (protection) is in place, then the worldly enjoyments, worldly fashions, or the inferiority complex that what will people say if we do not conform to the norms of the world, will become insignificant. Faith and Jama‘at will be of significance. The Ahmadi girl will be mindful of her Haya. She will not think casually about posting her picture on social media. Instead, the injunction of Purda from Allah the Almighty will prevent her from doing so. It will cross her mind that there is some kind of wisdom in every commandment of Allah the Almighty and the command of Purda and Haya is also one of the commandments of the Holy Quran. Therefore, I must protect my Purda and Haya by all means. I have to act upon all those commandments or make an effort to do so, which Allah the Almighty has ordained. I have to pray to Allah the Almighty to make me tread the paths which He likes. I have to obey all the orders from the Khalifa of the time to accomplish my pledge to abide by all his justified decisions as given in the Holy Quran. When every woman and every man makes an effort to lead his or her life with this mindset then the handle which he or she has grasped will be the guarantee to save him or her from all satanic and material thoughts. This has been explained by Allah the Almighty in the following verses, after the one I have recited: 
(Surah Al-Baqarah, 2:258) meaning that Allah is the Friend of those who accepted Faith. Therefore, it is out of the question that Satan invades the one whose Friend is Allah the Almighty.” (Address to Ladies at Jalsa Salana, UK held on September 8, 2012 at Hadiqatul Mahdi, Al-Fazl International, November 30, 2012)
Hazrat Khalifatul Masih V(aba) specifically addressed the women who have newly embraced Jama‘at Ahmadiyya, and while advising them to be role models for others, he stated:
“I say to the Ahmadi sisters who are new converts that you have accepted the teaching of Ahmadiyyat and Islam with understanding. You need not look to your husbands or other women as to what sort of Ahmadis they are. Instead, you should establish your own exemplary model based on the pristine teachings of Islam. Make your husbands live by their faith as well. Train your children according to Islamic teachings, and also those who are Ahmadis of long standing or were born Ahmadis. Lead and train them by your example. Sometimes those who join later surpass the earlier ones in piety and righteousness. I have witnessed in Africa too, that there are many women who can be taken as an example for observing Purda and practicing the teachings of Islam. There are a number of women native to the USA and Germany too who established exemplary characters after Bai‘at. Such women can be found here in your countries too. There are many good examples of Purda in these countries and examples of those who act upon other teachings of Islam. Therefore, the new converts must remember not to be pushed away by seeing any vice in any Pakistani woman. For a few bad ones there is a large majority of those who, by the grace of Allah Almighty, are the good ones. Besides, you have not taken Bai‘at of any man or woman but of the Promised Messiah(as). So, as I have said before, establish your examples which can be the source of training for the older Ahmadis. By doing so, you will be earning a double reward.”(Address to Ladies at Jalsa Salana Sweden, held on September 17, 2005, Al-Fazl International, May 15, 2015)
During the visit to Germany, Huzoor Anwar(aba) held a meeting with female students and answered their questions. In the meeting, a student mentioned that at times there are recreational school trips to the UK. If the parents do not send their girls, they are asked to switch schools. She asked Huzoor Anwar(aba), what should be done in such a situation?
Huzoor Anwar(aba) replied: “If it is a dire situation, then seek permission for parents to accompany their daughters. If they do not agree, then change the school.” He stated: “Actually, you must train your daughters in a way that they themselves tell the school that they opt not to go, not because of parents, but of their own personal choice as they do not think it is appropriate. When a girl is grown up, people around are responsible to be watchful of her. Even for Hajj, Islam commands a woman to be accompanied by a Mahram man... Private schools usually do not enforce such trips, however they are expensive. In any case, you need to make your girls realize what is wrong and must be avoided.” (Student class Germany, Held on June 10, 2006, Al-Fazl International, July 7, 2006)
Similarly, regarding permission to study in out-of-town educational institutions, Huzoor Anwar(aba) stated, “If parents give permission, then you may think about it. Over there, who will you live with? There should be a separate hostel for girls. If there is one, then it is fine, but you must take care of your honour and purity while studying over there.”
Huzoor Anwar(aba) further stated: “When girls from Rabwah used to go out of town for education, every one of them would first seek my permission through Nazarat Talim (Department of Education). The same applies to studying in co-education. Then they also give in writing that they will observe Purda during their studies.”
Huzoor Anwar(aba) said to the girls, “If parents are not satisfied, then it is better to live and study closer to home.” (Waqfaat-e-Nau class Germany, held on October 8, 2011, Al-Fazl International, January 6, 2012)
In another meeting, Huzoor Anwar(aba) was asked if one can go to a foreign country for post-secondary education. Answering this question, Huzoor Anwar(aba) stated:
“If you wish to proceed for higher education and the resources are not available in your own country, then you may go with the permission of your parents. However, you must take care of your honour and dignity. You must also take care of your purity and follow the teachings of Islam while over there. You should avoid having friendships and stay focused on your education.” (Students Class Germany held on June 10, 2006, Al-Fazl International, July 7, 2006)
In a meeting held during Huzoor Anwar’s(aba) visit to Canada, students asked questions with his permission. A student asked, “How should we make our non-Muslim friends understand why Purda is essential?”
Huzoor Anwar(aba) said: “Firstly, let them know that you have taken a pledge to act upon the faith which Allah the Almighty has chosen for us. Allah the Almighty has commanded in the Holy Quran to observe Purda so that your honour is maintained and you realize that in society you are not to mix up too much with boys, and must keep a barrier between yourself and the boys.”
Huzoor Anwar(aba) further stated: “In universities, there is coeducation and boys and girls sometimes do have interactions, but that should be limited for academics only. Other than that, there should be no free relationships or friendships. Girls should only be friends with girls.”
Referencing the Purda commandments, Huzoor Anwar(aba) stated: “There is a background to the commandments of Purda and the related Ahadith of the Holy Prophet(sa). In olden times when Purda was not yet common, a Muslim woman went to a Jew’s shop for an errand. In those days it was not common to wear clothes with undergarments. That Jew mischievously tied her clothes so that when the woman stood up, her clothes came off, and as a result, a fight broke out and even a murder took place. Hence, Purda was commanded for Muslim women to safeguard their honour and chastity. So, it is best to maintain a distance between you and other boys.
Secondly, the Holy Quran commands men to lower their gazes in the first place and not to stare at women, and then commands women to lower their gazes and not to stare. Even then men are not trustworthy, therefore, cover yourself up.
The Promised Messiah(as) has written that if you provide a guarantee to me that men have cleansed their brains and minds, then I would say not to be very strict in Purda. But this has not happened. Even though all men are not alike, many are like that. Thus, if the majority or a significant number of people can cause harm in society, then it is best to take preventative measures; therefore, Purda is essential to avoid unrestricted relationships.
Huzoor Anwar(aba) further stated:
“All religions have the commandments about Purda. In ancient times, noble Christian families used to observe Purda. The old dresses were like a long maxi with sleeves up to the wrists and a scarf to cover the head. The Bible says that if a woman is seen bareheaded, chop off all her hair. Islam has not applied such strictness, but it requires women to safeguard their Haya, and the concept of Haya (moral restraint) is ubiquitous in every nation.”
Huzoor Anwar(aba) stated: “In the Holy Quran there is the incident of Hazrat Moses(as) where two girls in Midian wanted to water their flocks. They stayed back since men were watering their flocks first, as they did not want to have direct interaction with men. So Hazrat Moses(as) asked them, what is the matter? They related their story to him. Once they narrated the incident, Hazrat Moses(as) watered their flock for them. After this, the Holy Quran mentions that once they had left, one of them returned and with Haya (modesty) and great care, not openly, said that my father has called you. The whole story is written in the Holy Quran and you should read it. So, Hazrat Moses(as) went to see the father who acted wisely. He did not say that he would keep a stranger in his house while both of his daughters were living with him. Again, here is the question of the honour of a woman. Instead, the father told Hazrat Moses(as) that he will provide him a place to live if Hazrat Moses(as) married one of his two daughters. Marrying one of his daughters became the reason for Hazrat Moses(as) to live there.
So, in fact, Purda is a protection for women, and men have also been sanctioned in this regard. However, in view of men being untrustworthy, you need to take care of yourselves.” (Students Class, Canada held on July 14, 2012, Published Al-Fazl International, October 12, 2012)
During his visit to Holland, Hazrat Khalifatul Masih(aba) V held a meeting with students in which girls asked him questions. One student asked how far a woman is allowed to build her career?
At this Huzoor Anwar(aba) stated: “All those careers in which a woman does not have to compromise her Haya are permitted. ‘Haya is a part of faith’ should always be kept in mind.”
Huzoor Anwar(aba) said that if you wish to be an air hostess with KLM, who wear a skirt and a tiny cap on their head, then it is not permitted by Islam and neither any Ahmadi girl can be allowed to do so. You can become a doctor, teacher, engineer, scientist, professor or lawyer, etc., provided your attire is appropriate and your Hijab does not come off. The appropriate attire is the modest one. With reference to law, Huzoor Anwar(aba) stated that you should not take up criminal cases. (Student Class Holland held on May 16, 2012 at Baitun Nur, Nunspeet, Published Al-Fazl International, June 15, 2012)
In one Friday sermon, while guiding in detail regarding girls doing jobs and Purda, Huzoor Anwar(aba) stated:
“A girl has recently written a letter to me that she has achieved higher education and is expected to get a good position in a bank. She asked that if they have a restriction on Hijab, Purda and wearing a coat, can she still work over there? After leaving the workplace, I will wear the Hijab. She said, ‘I have heard that you have allowed working women to take off their Burqa and Hijab at their workplace.’ This girl has at least the decency to add that she will not work if I do not allow it. I am relating this because this is a question not from one, but many girls. So, the first thing is that I said so with reference to doctors in specific situations, such as working in an operation theater where they cannot work in a traditional Burqa or Hijab. Their dress over there consists of a head cap, a mask and a loose gown. Outside this, doctors too can work in Purda. In Rabwah we had such doctors. We have always witnessed Dr. Fehmeeda in Purda. Dr. Nusrat Jahan was also very strict in Purda. She received an education from the UK and used to visit here every year to upgrade her skills according to the latest research. She always observed Purda. She was strict in observance of Purda even when it was not required. But no one raised any objection on her or her work. Nor were her professional duties affected by her Purda. She performed major surgeries. So, if intentions are good, one is able to find ways to practice the teachings of one’s faith.
Similarly, I told researchers that if a girl is so capable that she is doing research and has to wear a special laboratory dress, they are allowed to wear the dress as required by their environment and do not need to wear a Hijab since they do wear a cap over there. However, as they exit their work place, their Purda must be according to what Islam has prescribed.
Bank employment is not aimed to serve humanity. So, taking off the Hijab for common jobs cannot be permitted, especially the job where a girl is in regular clothes and makeup and a specific dress is not the requirement.
Hence, it should always be remembered that Haya requires a modest dress, and the Purda attire which is currently followed is part of modest clothing. If leniency is adopted in Purda, they will alter the modest dress too by making many excuses. And then they will be camouflaged in society where immodesty is already on an increase. The world already is chasing after those who practice their faith and especially Muslims, so that they can pull them away from religion.” (Friday Sermon, January 13, 2017 at Baitul Futuh mosque London, Published Al-Fazl International, February 3, 2017)
Answering a question from a Lajna member—Can women work in the police force?—Huzoor Anwar(aba) stated:
In my view, some professions are such that a religious woman who observes Purda and wears the Hijab should not opt for them. There, you have to wear a police uniform and the Hijab is not a part of the police uniform. Instead, you will have to wear trousers, a t-shirt and a jacket. Sometimes they also wear only a peaked cap. Therefore, Ahmadi women should not join the police service; leave that alone for men. In my view, there are many other professions which an Ahmadi woman can opt for.”
Replying to a question from the same Lajna member, Huzoor Anwar(aba) stated:
“You can become a social worker. For in this, you serve deprived and needy people. You can join Humanity First. We need girls who can help the poor living in some areas of Africa.” (Students Class, Germany held on June 2, 2012, Published Al-Fazl International, August 24, 2012)
One girl asked that if a law is implemented here that women can only work without Purda, then what is the opinion of Huzoor Anwar(aba) in this regard? Huzoor Anwar(aba) stated:
“Firstly, pray. InshaAllah such a law will not be implemented. However, if it does, give priority to your faith over the world.” (Students Class Germany held on June 10, 2006, Published Al-Fazl International, July 7, 2006)
On one hand, Huzoor Anwar(aba) made efforts to promote Purda among Ahmadi women and on the other hand, he commendably defended the allegations of non-Muslims against Purda. While advising in this regard in one of his Friday sermons, Huzoor Anwar(aba) stated:
“I also speak to those Ahmadi girls who are in some kind of complex that if you take off your Hijab and Niqab because of the comments from society or to follow the fashion trends, then there is no guarantee of your honour. Your honour lies in honouring your faith.
I have previously also mentioned an incident, and there are many similar incidents, where an Ahmadi girl was served a notice of a month from her boss to take off her Hijab at work or else she would be fired from her job. That girl prayed, ‘O Allah, I only follow Your commandment and observe Purda to follow Your faith, so help me. And if this employment is not good for me, give me a better one.’ Anyway, for one month that officer kept reminding her about the number of days left before she would be fired and the girl kept on praying. After one month, the girl stayed at her work, but the officer was fired or transferred to another place by his boss for some mistake he made and so she was relieved. If the intentions are good, Allah the Almighty creates means. If there is a link with Allah the Almighty, He helps in ways that astonish a man and the words of praise flow spontaneously from the heart.” (Friday Sermon, April 23, 2010 in Switzerland, Published Al-Fazl International, May 14, 2010)
Answering a question related to Tabligh, Huzoor Anwar(aba) advised Ahmadi girls about presenting their practical examples and said: “You will have to find ways to create your own opportunities for Tabligh. Other girls will be inclined to you if you are good at studies, have proper appearance, attitude and character. Proper scarf and Purda, and disinclination to developing relationships with boys will make them question as to who you are (your identity). Then you tell them that you are an Ahmadi and believe in the Messiah of the time. This will facilitate further conversation and open the pathway for Tabligh.” (Waqfaat-e-Nau Class held on October 8, 2011 at Baitul Rashid, Germany, Al-Fazl International, January 6, 2012)
During his tour in Germany, Huzoor Anwar(aba), advised National Majlis ‘Amila in a meeting about Tabligh activities. Some of these advices were related to Purda. As quoted in the report:
“In regard to holding Tabligh events, Huzoor Anwar(aba) stated that you must do so. It would be better to hold Tabligh events for women by women and for men by men. If a Lajna member is accompanied by a guest who prefers to sit in the men’s section, then only the member accompanying the guest can sit on the men’s side with her and no other lady. Even the members accompanying the guests will not dine with men. Women must observe Purda. In this regard, Huzoor Anwar(aba) mentioned the tour of Mubarak mosque in The Hague by the Queen of Holland, who observed Islamic traditions while touring the mosque. Huzoor Anwar(aba) stated that you should stay firm on your traditions and not make any compromise on Purda. At this occasion, a presentation was to be made to the queen and I gave special permission to Lajna to present it. But I clearly instructed them that this permission was only for this particular ceremony and not for every event.” (Meeting National Majlis ‘Amila Germany held on June 7, 2006 in Al-Fazl International, July 7, 2006)
Similarly, Huzoor Anwar(aba) advised Ahmadi students to follow the commandment of Purda during their Tabligh activities. He stated: “Let university students know that if they are not fluent in the languages of their contacts, they should acquire relevant literature. If Tabligh connections are developed on the Internet, then women should only connect with female contacts.”
Huzoor Anwar(aba) also explained the importance of Purda and stated that if you happen to come across men (in online forums), give them contact information of male members (of the Jama‘at) and only invite females in your forum. If on an occasion, women are not capable of giving satisfactory answers, move to a secluded side of the mixed gathering, along with your accompanying guest, and be mindful of your Purda. Do not join in with the mixed gathering when food is served; instead, proceed to the women’s area. Obtain contact information of the women you meet in mixed gatherings and invite them to your female-only events. In such situations, they might deliberate and question you as to why you do not attend mixed gatherings. This will give you the opportunity to clarify their misconceptions regarding Islamic Purda (at this point Huzoor Anwar(aba) inquired if these mixed gatherings and open days are synonymous. The reply was in the affirmative). Huzoor Anwar(aba) said “University students may have separate gathering with their contacts.” (Meeting National Majlis ‘Amila Lajna Ima’illah Germany held on June 9, 2006, Al-Fazl International, July 7, 2006)
Once, in a meeting with National Majlis ‘Amila Lajna Ima’illah Germany, Huzoor Anwar(aba) gave many important instructions, out of which some are also related to Purda. Huzoor Anwar(aba) stated: “Prepare an MTA talk show on the subject of Purda by involving educated girls and explain the purpose of this Islamic commandment. Have a discussion with reference to the Bible and explain that Christianity has given the commandment for Purda because it considers women to be of a lesser status, whereas Islam prescribes Purda for women to elevate their dignity and status. Tell those who oppose Purda that you have discarded your religion because you consider it to be impractical. You thought that it is unworkable in the prevalent conditions, but Islam is a practical religion and we can carry out all of our activities with the Hijab and Purda. Work on such programs and send them to MTA. Lajna programs aired on MTA are produced under my instructions and supervision. Although they are meant for the entire world, but keeping in view the local environment, they are especially produced for the European countries.”
Huzoor Anwar(aba) further stated that as I mentioned at the Lajna UK Ijtima‘, it should be explained to Ahmadi girls who raise objections to Purda that every club they join has some sort of rules and regulations. If these rules and regulations are not followed, the membership of the club is cancelled. Thus, Islam also has a code of conduct which includes obligatory prayer, recitation of the Holy Quran and to act upon all its commandments. By taking Bai‘at of the Promised Messiah(as) of the time, you have taken allegiance to abide by everything he says. Keeping these aspects in view, you can assess your own position. Then ask, do you consider yourself an Ahmadi? And if so, do you believe in the fundamental commandments of Islam? If you do believe, do you make an effort to abide by them? Then, keep in mind that the commandment of Purda is also one of them. Following this strategy, ask them what they wish to do now? Do they wish to stay with the Jama‘at in hypocrisy and pretence, or have good intentions to reform themselves by bringing about a change from within?” (Meeting National Majlis ‘Amila Lajna Ima’illah Germany held on December 25, 2006, Al-Fazl International, January 19, 2007)
The instructions on Purda which Huzoor Anwar(aba) gave in a meeting with National Majlis ‘Amila Germany are as follows:
“German and African women have made (good) progress in the observance of Purda whereas you are on the decline. Only a few days ago, a German girl came for a meeting and she had a very good level of Purda. An English girl, who is a PhD student at the University of Oxford in the UK, observes excellent Purda and is not embarrassed to do so.”
Huzoor Anwar(aba) stated: “Ahmadi girls in the universities should take care not to talk with boys in seclusion. This promotes friendships, which then lead to going out together here and there in the malls. At university, there is no restriction on taking help for one’s studies from a fellow student. As far as individual Tabligh is concerned, it has already been instructed that girls should address girls and vice versa.” (Meeting National Majlis ‘Amila Lajna Germany held on December 18, 2009, Al-Fazl International, January 29, 2010)
In an address, Huzoor Anwar(aba) said while reminding Ahmadi women about improving their Purda and being a role model for Tabligh:
“Purda is the fundamental commandment of the Holy Quran. Diverse nations belonging to Muslim countries have devised different ways to comply with it, according to their suitability. Hazrat Musleh Mau‘ud(ra) used to say that Purda of the Turkish woman is of the highest degree. She wears the Niqab and Hijab, which protects her and allows her to perform her tasks as well, as she can move about freely without compromising her modesty.
A Missionary told me that he does Tabligh to the Turkish community. He says that when I propagate, the Turks question me: ‘Which Islam should we accept, the proper Islam to which you invite or the Islam your women exhibit? Islam enjoins observing of Purda and they (Ahmadi women) disregard it. Many women among our acquaintances do not observe Purda.’
Once, I stated that for Tabligh one needs to present one’s own model as well. Personal model is a great means of doing Tabligh. Take note that your example has given other people a chance to raise objections. So, these women are not just defying a command of Allah, but are also becoming the cause of stumbling of others. Thus, they are committing a two-fold sin, as Allah the Almighty has stated in the next verse, ‘Whoso disobeys Allah and His Messenger surely strays away in manifest error’ (Surah Al-Ahzab, 33:37).” (Address to ladies at Jalsa Salana Switzerland held on September 4, 2004, Published Al-Fazl International, January 7, 2005)
Huzoor Anwar(aba) advised Ahmadi women: “Some Arab women have told me that they have observed in the mosque in the UK, and at other places too, that Ahmadi women do not observe proper Purda. Arab women are very particular about Purda of their hair. Their heads are fully covered and therefore, they find it strange that Ahmadi women do not observe Purda (of hair). Instead, they cover their heads with a small scarf. This matter needs to be attended to earnestly, lest you become the cause of the faltering of others.” (Address at Annual Ijtima‘, Lajna Ima’illah Germany held on September 17, 2011, Al-Fazl International, November, 16, 2012)
In a meeting with National Majlis ‘Amila Germany, Huzoor Anwar(aba) referenced their magazine Khadija and said:
“A picture was published in your magazine where men and women were seated together, which is not appropriate. Huzoor Anwar(aba) advised creating an editorial board which would make a policy to raise the standards of the magazine. Emphasizing once again on the need of Purda, Huzoor Anwar(aba) stated, instill in the minds of the girls the notion that you have to observe Purda because it is Allah’s command. They will not have complexes if they hold firm to the traditions of the Jama‘at and this will open the way for Tabligh.
Some girls come here after getting married in Pakistan. They wear Burqa over there but discard it upon arriving here. This is immodesty. This could be due to personal complexes or even on the demand of the husband. If a German woman can adopt decent attire on converting to Ahmadiyyat, then why are they hesitant to observe proper Purda? Then he said that text messages are the latest trend now. These should only be exchanged with acquaintances. Sometimes friends pass on telephone numbers and there is a need to draw attention to this matter”. (Meeting National Majlis ‘Amila, Germany, held on June 9, 2006, in Al-Fazl International, July 7, 2006)