Faith Column: Let’s talk modesty
Whether you choose to cover yourself minimally or fully, modesty can come from within
Maria Carbajal
Faith Columnist
Quran – Surah 24:30-31
Bible – 1 Peter 3:3, 1
Corinthians 12:23
Rig Veda – book 8, Hymn 33:19
Modesty is a topic that always stirs up conversation. Certain individuals believe that the concept of modesty represses women, while others believe it to be an empowering notion.
Some believe that in order to be modest one must cover every inch of skin, while others find a one-piece bathing suit modest. Does modesty come from within us or is it the way we present ourselves to the public?
That answer depends on each and every individual. We all have our own ideas and opinions on modesty and for many, balance is essential.
Here are four girls from varying backgrounds who share their views and show us the truth about modesty.
Demi Okuboyejo
Program: Policy Studies
Religious Identity: Non-denominational Christian
The Reflector: Views on modesty:
“It has to do with protecting your honour and valuing yourself enough to know not to share every part of yourself with everyone.”
TR: Is modesty more internal or external?
“Both — the external part is cultural, and internal is more of your personal beliefs.” These personal beliefs, she says, are something you may pick up from your parents.
TR: Can you be both modest and fashionable?
“Oh definitely! You can still be stylish and modest — you don’t have to forfeit one for another. With fashion, the focus is on your clothes, not on your body.”
TR: Final comments on modesty:
“It is not a list of ‘Do’s and Don’ts’; it’s more about knowing what you stand for.”
Sandra Grenier
Program: Education
Religious Identity: Roman Catholic
TR: Views on modesty:
“I think modesty is highly misunderstood today. I don’t believe it’s about being ashamed of the human body. I see modesty more as having respect for the beauty of the body and celebrating it by not showing everything.”
TR:Is modesty more internal or external?
“External modesty would be the way you present yourself aesthetically. I think they’re both equally important; the way we behave says a lot about us. That being said, we live in a world where people make first impressions based on appearance.”
TR: Can you be both modest and fashionable?
“Of course. It’s possible to look modest and respectable without looking weird or outdated. If you go to trendier stores like Aritzia, there are turtlenecks and midi-skirts. Being immodest doesn’t seem to be the most popular option right now!”
TR: Final comments on modesty:
“Modesty not only reflects my personal beliefs for respecting the body, it’s also a way for me to feel comfortable and honestly, it doesn’t feel like a big deal. I don’t feel like I dress differently than any of the girls who I see at university or out in my city.”
Sanjana Kathuria
Program: Business
Religious Identity: Hindu
TR: Views on modesty: “Modesty means being reserved when it comes to exposing skin and being humble and nice to everyone. Not showing off at all.”
TR: Is modesty more internal or external?
“It’s more internal,” Kathuria says. She adds that inner beauty is more important than outer appearances.
TR: Can you be both modest and fashionable?
“Yes, of course we can be both. You can still be fashionable while being modest. You just don’t have to reveal your skin that much.”
TR: Final comments on modesty:
“You may not be the hottest or sexiest according to others but like I said modesty is more internal and the inner beauty matters more.”
Feyza Erol
Program: Open Studies
Religious Identity: Muslim
TR: Views on modesty:
“I see myself as valuable. Being women, we have to cover ourselves, which gives us extra value. We’re not giving an advertisement of ourselves. People are interested in my ideas, not my body. I feel confident.”
TR: Is modesty more internal or external?
“Both. Everything is my own [beliefs], so people can just see me for myself. I feel beautiful with all the things Islam gives me.”
TR: Can you be both modest and fashionable?
“Sure, because clothes are really important. When I look in the mirror, I see a person who has feelings, emotions, thoughts, but my style does not prevent me expressing these ideas.”
TR: Final comments on modesty:
“In this age, modesty is being shown as changing who people are, but that’s not how it’s supposed to be. Everyone has beauty, but the focus of modesty is on feelings and ideas rather than clothes.”
Modesty is something that many women choose, not something that is imposed on them. It is a way of allowing your inner beauty to shine. Thankfully, here in Calgary, it’s not so hard to be modest. It’s winter half of the year, so modesty isn’t only suitable to fit your religious beliefs, but practical reasons as well! Not to mention that flannel shirts and jeans are always great for summer months! Remember, aside from just clothes, modesty has an emphasis on who you are on the inside. In the words of Boonaa Mohammed, a Muslim poet and speaker, “If the whole world was blind, how many people would you impress?”
