Abstract

This research explores the veiling practices among Filipina Muslim women, scrutinizing the personal and societal dimensions of wearing the hijab - a headscarf worn by Muslim women to cover their hair, neck, and sometimes shoulders. The practice of veiling reflects adherence to Islamic dress codes that extend beyond attire to encompass expected social behaviors. Employing standpoint theory as analytical framework, the study aims to address misconceptions surrounding the veiling tradition. By examining the experiences of hijabis the paper argues that their choice to wear the hijab is a rational act of individual agency rather than mere conformity to social norms. This study presents a comparative analysis of veiling within Muslim and non-Muslim communities, highlighting the hijab's integral role in the lives of the interviewees, all of whom have practiced veiling for over a decade. By purposively selecting long-term hijabis and considering their narratives, this research provides insights into the complex reasons behind the maintenance of the veil and its significance as more than just a piece of fabric.

Keywords

  • hijab
  • Islamic tradition
  • Filipina hijabi
  • veiling
  • religious practice
  • cultural identity
  • standpoint theory

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