Title: Should I Wear the Abaya even at the Risk of Discrimination? Question: I have recently started wearing an abbaya. what I want to know is that is it an islamic dress? Secondly, since I am searching for a job, and considering to get one, do I continue wearing it, or shun it just for the reason that my employers/colleagues will discriminate against me? I don't want to stop wearing it, as it gives me a sense of security. Please reply. Nadia Siddique Pakistan Answer: Wearing an abaya , or for that matter any other particular kind of attire, is not a requirement of the Shari`ah . The Shari`ah , on the other hand, has prescribed a particular etiquette of interaction between males and females [1] . Both men and women are required to adhere to the prescribed etiquette while interacting with each other. However, the practical form and shape of an individual's attire may differ from another's even though both may be maintaining the etiquette prescribed by the Qur'an in this respect, in letter and spirit. Keeping the foregoing explanation in perspective, 'abaya' can be considered one form of attire, which is in accordance with the prescriptions of the Shari`ah . However, there can be other forms of attire which are equally appropriate for the purpose. It is not necessary for you to wear the 'abaya' . Nevertheless, whatever you wear should be in accordance with the prescriptions of the Shari`ah . I would recommend that even at the risk of being discriminated against in the case of any prospective employment, you should continue to adhere to the directives of the Shari`ah while remembering that soon you shall be taken to His court where you shall be in need of His mercy much more than you need any employment opportunity during the life of this world. I hope this helps. Regards, Moiz Amjad January 3, 2003 [1] For details, please refer to the section titled ' Etiquette of Interaction between Males and Females '.