Why is hijab so misunderstood?

The hijab is one of the most misunderstood symbols of being a Muslim. The misunderstanding is a consequence of the misunderstanding about the concept of freedom. Freedom in attire is understood as the right of the woman to reveal as much of her body as she likes to, regardless of the consequences the woman herself might face or the evils it might lead to. If this is seen as freedom, then it follows that covering the body will be seen as repression or oppression. But there is more than what meets the eye. The hijab is more than just a piece of clothing; it is part of the total package of being a Muslim woman together with her demeanor, behavior, and modesty in public.
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