Do you ever get questions from non-Muslims as to why some women wear the hijab and some don't? Or why it may be important to wear a head covering? Sometimes we may not know what to say except “I wear it for Allah and a symbol of faith and submission.” Although this is a great answer, let's get a deeper understanding of what this means in order to inspire others and even ourselves to see the beauty in the hijab and modesty as a form of worship for Allah swt. 

Faith:

The hijab is beyond mere fabric; it embodies the beautiful expression of faith and respect. From an Islamic perspective, muslim women who wear the hijab have the honor to represent their religion wherever they may be. Although it is an honor, it can easily be difficult to handle the pressure of being “perfect” for others, but it's not about perfection. Rather, it is about faith in Allah and doing your best to be a servant of Allah. To make modesty easier, consider changing your perspective away from cultural emphasis on “perfection” and focus on Allah's commands by doing your best. Study the stories and quranic revelations regarding hijab to stay focused on its true purpose bounded by faith. 

“O children of Adam, We have bestowed upon you clothing to conceal your private parts and as adornment. But the clothing of righteousness - that is best. That is from the signs of Allah that perhaps they will remember.”

Submission:

Submission in Islam requires trust and alliance with Allah swt. Atheists or non-Muslims may view submission as a form of control to an entity, but as Muslims submission is the key to true freedom. We become free from the sins of the world by doing what Allah guides us to do since he is all knowing and knows what's best for us. Wearing the hijab is no different. Without modesty, the world can easily sexualize both men and women as we can clearly see in modern times. Taking control of your haya and deciding to be modest is our form of freedom from sexualization while worshiping Allah through his commands. Hence, to submit is to worship Allah and protect yourself, especially by choosing to wear the hijab. 

Our Duty: 

Whether you wear the hijab or not, male or female, we all have the duty to represent Islam in the best manner with faith and submission. As time moves on and the standard of beauty is constantly changing, we can rely on our hijab and Allah for security as his standard of beauty never changes, so neither should ours. So when we wear the hijab,  wear it with confidence and contentment knowing your pleasing Allah every second and through every hardship.