Hijab

What is Hijab?
Comprehensive Definition:
Hijab is the word used in the
Islamic context for the practice of
dressing modestly, which ALL
practicing Muslims past the age of
puberty are instructed to do in
their holy book, the Qur'an.

Common Meaning:
A scarf that many Muslim women
use to cover their hair.
Male Hijab

The Kufi
 Why Do Some Ladies Wear
It?

As a Muslim woman Zaheera chooses to wear

traditional clothing in-line with the Koran. Having
recently taken on the Muslim style of dress she has
noticed many people's attitude change towards her.
Although this frustrates her she is determined to remain
true to the teachings of her faith.
 Arguments Against Hijab
• Not Mandated in Quran
Room for interpretation of “modesty” verse

• Heavy Responsibility
Especially in Western or non-Muslim societies

• Not a fundamental tenant of the religion

(less important than prayer, Shahada,charity, etc…)

• Desire to Assimilate Into Society

Can limit opportunities & ignite stereotypes
 Types of Hijab
The type most commonly
worn in the West is a
square scarf that covers
the head and neck but
leaves the face clear
Types of Hijab
• The al-amira is a two-piece veil.
It consists of a close fitting cap,
usually made from cotton or
polyester, and an accompanying
tube-like scarf.

• The shayla is a long, rectangular

scarf popular in the Gulf region.
It is wrapped around the head
and tucked or pinned in place at
the shoulders.
Types of Hijab
• The khimar is a long, cape-
like veil that hangs down to
just above the waist. It
covers the hair, neck and
shoulders completely, but
leaves the face clear.

• The chador, worn by

Iranian women when
outside the house, is a full-
body cloak. It is often
accompanied by a smaller
headscarf underneath.
Types of Hijab
• The nikab is a veil for the face
that leaves the area around the
eyes clear. However, this may be
obscured by a separate eye veil.
It is worn with an accompanying
headscarf, such as a khimar.

• The burqa is the most

concealing of all Islamic veils. It
covers the entire face and body,
leaving just a mesh screen to
see through.
How Muslims dress is largely cultural, depending
on where they live.

This Pakistani woman is covering her head.

Not all Muslims cover up in this way, while
some wear it just whenever they feel like it.
 Does this picture surprise you?
Why?

What does this picture reveal about our

expectations of people who wear hijab?
Expectations & Hijab
http://postsecret.blogspot.com
Sexy?
There has been lots of
controversy about a Muslim's
right to wear hijab. This
demonstrator in Copenhagen
is fighting back against the
decision made in France not
allowing any symbols of
religious faith to be worn in
 Your Assignment
1) Read the BBC Articles Entitled
“French Headscarf Ban Opens Rifts”
& the “Q & A: Muslim Headscarves”

2) Answer the Questions that follow each

article after reading !

Be sure you have a solid understanding about

what is being banned, the reasons why, &
affected groups

Be prepared to discuss your opinions on the

Headscarf Ban tomorrow!