Hijab

Hijab is an Arabic term originally meaning 'barrier' or 'screen'. It now commonly refers to the head covering worn by Muslim women that conceals the hair, ears, and neck while leaving the face visible. The term is also used more broadly to describe a system of modest dress and gender interaction norms between men and women.

Its form, name, and prevalence vary across Muslim regions. In Turkey it is called 'tesettür' or 'başörtüsü'; in Iran, 'ruusari' and 'caadar'; in the Indian subcontinent, 'dupatta' or 'burqa'; in Somalia and East Africa, 'hijab', 'shaash', and 'jilbaab'. These variations reflect differences in custom, climate, and religious interpretation.

Religious foundations

Islamic scholars base their arguments on Quranic verses in Sura an-Nur (the Light) and Sura al-Ahzab (the Confederates), which instruct women to lower their gaze, not display their beauty, and draw their clothing around them. The verses do not specify a particular form of dress, which has led to differing interpretations. Most scholars view covering the hair as obligatory, though a minority of modern scholars argue that the command applies to general modesty rather than the head specifically.

History

Before Islam, head covering existed among Middle Eastern, Jewish, Christian, and Persian societies, often as a marker of social status or honor. After Islam's emergence, it became integrated into Muslim dress codes. In the 19th and 20th centuries, hijab became a political issue: some modernizing states restricted it, while Islamic movements promoted it.

Law and policy

Some countries, such as Iran and Taliban-controlled Afghanistan, have mandated modest dress with legal penalties for non-compliance. Conversely, some European states, including France, have restricted religious dress symbols in public schools and banned face coverings in public spaces. The debate centers on religious freedom, gender equality, and individual choice, with both sides appealing to these principles.

Types of dress

Hijab commonly refers to a head scarf. Khimar is a longer scarf covering to the waist. Jilbaab is a full-body garment. Niqab covers the face and leaves only the eyes visible, while the Afghan burqa covers the entire body with a mesh screen for the eyes. Caadar is a black wrap worn in Iran without fastening.