Imaamah and Topi
Q: I read the hadith "The difference between us and the pagans is that we wear the 'imama on top of the qalansuwa" (Abu Dawud). Does this mean that the mere wearing of a topi resembles the practise of the pagans and that it is better for us to wear imamas? The only problem for me wearing an imama is that it is uncommon amongst the Muslims where I live, most people including elders and teachers wear topi, and I am afraid that I give myself a higher rank than I am worth if I wear an imama. Is this a valid excuse not to wear an imama?