NiqÄ b in Pluralistic Society: An Islamic Perspective

In Sri Lanka, which is a multi-ethnic nation in religion and cultural aspects, there is an increasing number of campaigns and allegations against Muslim women’s niqÄ b (face veil). Thus, the study is based on a Qualitative Method with the aim of exploring Islamic guidelines on how Muslim women should dress in their niqÄ b in a multicultural context, which is under threat. Data was gathered using only a secondary data collection technique. Books, journals, magazines, and websites have been used as data sources. The study concludes that although wearing the niqÄ b is not an obligatory duty on Muslim women who believe piously, a certain number of Muslim women are found to be fascinated with it. Although there is a law in the country to follow particular religious principles, criticisms of the niqÄ b (face mask) have arisen for the protection of other people, the proper expression of identification, and the coordination of everyone in the country. It has been found that, in this situation Islam allows a slight evil to be committed to prevent a serious evil in the society, it guides Muslim women to give up nothing obligatory to live in harmony in a multicultural context while adhering to only the most fundamental Islamic principles.