Q 4: Is it permissible for under-aged girls to go out without wearing Hijab (veil) or to offer Salah (Prayer) without putting on Khimar (veil covering to the waist)?

A: It is Wajib (obligatory) on their Waliy (a legally responsible person for bringing up children i.e. their father, mother, grandfather and so on) to educate them about the etiquettes of Islam. They have to be enjoined to cover their `Awrah (parts of the body that must be covered in public) whenever they go out. The foregoing is a means of avoiding temptation and acquainting the under-aged girls with good manners so that they do not become a reason for the spread of corruption. Besides, the Waliy of the under-aged girls should enjoin them to put on Khimar whenever they perform Salah. However, if they do not do so; their Salah is still valid. Proof of the foregoing is a Hadith in which the Prophet (peace be upon him) said: Allah does not accept the prayer of a menstruant (i.e., an adult woman) unless (she covers her head) with a Khimar. (Related by Al-Tirmidhy) (Part No. 17; Page No. 221) May Allah grant us success. May peace and blessings be upon our Prophet Muhammad, his family, and Companions.