HijabHijab

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.

Play Video Clip on Zaheera

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 schools.

Your Assignment1)Read the BBC Articles Entitled

“French Headscarf Ban Opens Rifts”& the “Q & A: Muslim Headscarves”

2)Answer the Questions that follow eacharticle 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!