We call ourselves Muslims but don’t want to understand Islam: Hina Bayat

In a segment of the Adnan Faisal Podcast featuring Hina Bayat, the actress delved into the concept of claiming religious identity without a thorough understanding of the guidelines and directives outlined by one’s faith. Expressing her thoughts, she remarked, “We want to call ourselves Muslims but we don’t want to understand Islam.” Hina emphasized the tendency to enforce fatwas without a deeper comprehension, adding, “Because we’ve heard this happens.”

Reflecting on a challenging period in her life following her husband’s passing, Hina recounted facing taunts about her observance of Iddat. She shared, “‘Why didn’t you sit in Iddat? This is how much you loved your husband? You didn’t even finish your Iddat? These women love putting on makeup and coming on camera,'” mimicking the taunting comments she endured during the tragic time.

Addressing misconceptions about Iddat, Hina clarified that it has specific conditions and is not mandatory. She underscored the importance of considering a woman’s responsibilities, especially if she has children to care for. Contrary to societal expectations, she pointed out instances from the Prophet Muhammad’s time, highlighting that even during wartime, women were involved in burying their husbands.

Hina challenged the belief that women are restricted from visiting graveyards, questioning its source. She emphasized that while excessive wailing is discouraged, it is not exclusive to women, as men also express grief. Additionally, she differentiated between regular and inciting music, asserting that the latter is prohibited instead of music as a whole.

When questioned about criticism regarding her work, Hina disclosed that the primary issue raised was her perceived failure to complete her Iddat. She posed a rhetorical question, asking whether it was preferable for her to stay at home and potentially harm herself or others. Addressing a specific project that was ongoing during that period, she highlighted the impact her absence would have had on the people dependent on the project, emphasizing the broader consequences of such decisions.