My understanding is that extremism is when you go to extremes in one recommended act to the extent that you neglect other religious obligations. For example, if one fasts forty consecutive days without iftâr, one becomes so weak that one cannot even perform his daily prayers. Or when a man prays voluntary prayers all day and does not go to work to support his family, he is neglecting his religious obligation in order to do something that is not an obligation. This is how I define an extreme practice. Now, when it comes to the issue of the niqab, there are different scenarios:
If I follow the opinion that covering the face is obligatory (fard), I must cover my face – except when covering the face will lead to a greater harm such as harassment or persecution.
If I follow the opinion that covering the face is not obligatory, I should ask myself the following question: Will wearing the niqab prevent me from fulfilling my religious obligations?
If no, it is better to wear the niqab.
If ‘yes’, it is better not to wear the niqab.
I know that many sisters (especially those living in the West) will answer ‘yes’ to the question; not only because the niqab can act as an impediment to da’wah, but also because wearing it can lead to persecution. Even some of the scholars who consider the niqab to be obligatory, have said that women can choose not to wear the niqab in the West.
The situation in the Islamic world varies from region to region. In some countries, such as Saudi Arabia, the majority of women cover their faces and the niqab is very much accepted in the society. There are many women-only schools, colleges, universities, offices and even restaurants; women can easily remove their veils in these areas. Therefore, it is easier to wear the veil in Saudi Arabia. In many other Muslim countries, the niqab is less common but it is still accepted in the society and women who wear the veil do not face much difficulty. In some other Muslim countries, the niqab is banned and women are not allowed to wear the niqab to school or university. It was like this in Turkey and Tunisia; I’m not sure if this situation has changed or not.
All in all, I think this decision depends on our attitude and also on our situation. Sometimes, by wearing the niqab, we can be better Muslimahs. Sometimes, by not wearing the niqab, we can be a better Muslimah. What is important is to serve Allah and the Islamic community. Allah does not expect us to do what we are not able to do. Allah wants from us a pure intention and a sincere effort: an intention to serve and love Allah in the best manner possible. Insha’ Allah.