Abstract

Britain has, since its support for war in Iraq has tried to challenge aspects of Islam within its own borders. It has on several occasions claimed that a Hijab and Veil are a symbol of segregation within its communities. A similar discussion has taken place in France. As a result of this concern, and not understanding fully the significance behind the religious symbols such as the Veil (known as Burka in in some places) and the Hijab (a headcovering) has banned them from its schools. This was a palpable violation of the rights of 2.3 million British Muslims and 5 million French Muslims, representing no respect for freedom of religion and freedom of expression. Given the current position of many of the Muslim countries it is my wish to give examples of the modesty and humility of women in Muslim countries. The British and French position and behaviour towards Muslim women is demeaning. This paper will examine the ‘Ideal Islam’ and the resulting rationale behind the wearing of such religious symbols. It will examine the historical premise of the religious symbols and how, if such premise was administered correctly there would be a positive effect not only on British and French societies but across the world. I approach this paper as a student who will try to raise and answer all questions to reveal the real meaning of these religious symbols in ‘ideal Islam’.