—owing to their short-sightedness and their deficiency in reason and religion—see something that appeals to them, and their desire dictates: “I want one just like this.” Sometimes she even goes straight to the tailor so he can make her the same revealing outfit, and thus the Muslim people begin to dress like the disbelieving people—Allah’s refuge is sought. This is a grave matter, for the Prophet, peace and blessings be upon him, said, “Whoever imitates a people is counted among them.”

A clear example today is what women do with their hair. Not long ago a woman rejoiced when her hair grew long, and a suitor, when proposing, would inquire, “Is her hair long or short?” Now the situation has flipped: the woman cuts her hair until it is nearly—or exactly—the length of a man’s. We ask Allah for well-being.

They have even started using what is called the khunfasa style: a woman shaves the sideburns and the front of her head, leaving the remainder cropped short yet sticking up. All of this is imitation, born of men’s heedlessness toward their womenfolk. Your duty is to be a man in your own home—truly a man, not a lifeless piece of wood before your family.

If you see your family falling short in a duty toward Allah, command them to fulfill it; and if the law permits you to strike, then strike. If you notice them violating the shariʿah in any other matter, compel them to comply, for you are responsible. The Prophet, peace and blessings be upon him, has placed you in charge of your family: “A man is a shepherd over his household and is responsible for his flock.” It was neither the local chief, nor the minister, nor the king who appointed you; it was Muhammad, the Messenger of Allah, peace and blessings be upon him.