What does the niqab represent?
For many men and women, the burqa, the niqab, or any clothing that covers the whole female body including the face, is a powerful symbol of the oppression and subjugation of Muslim women.
What are burqas and niqabs?
Burqa: Burqas and niqabs are often confused. Niqabs cover the face, but leave the eyes uncovered, while burqas cover the entire body, from the top of the head to the ground, with only a small screen allowing the wearer to see in front.
What does Islam say about niqab?
The niqab is not mentioned by the Quran – which mandates only modest clothing for both men and women more generally. The Quran (24:31) says: “And tell the believing women to lower their gaze and guard their chastity, and not to reveal their adornments except what normally appears.
What is a half niqab called?
Niqaab (2) A veil that is tied on at the bridge of the nose and falls to cover the lower face. Also called “half niqab”.
Is wearing niqab mandatory?
The most authentic ruling according to the majority of scholars is that it is not necessary and, unlike hijab, there is no sin if it is not worn. Some of these scholars state that wearing the niqab as an act of extra piety, provided they do not believe it is an obligation, will be rewarded.
Is burkha same as hijab?
The hijab is a headscarf that covers the hair, neck, and sometimes a woman’s shoulders and chest. The burqa is an enveloping garment that comes in a variety of designs, but typically covers a woman’s face and head entirely and may cover most or all of the rest of her body.
What does Quran say about burqa?
Tell the believing women to lower their eyes, guard their private parts (furuj), and not display their charms (zina) except what is apparent outwardly, and cover their bosoms with their veils (khumur, sing. khimar) and not to show their finery except to their husbands or their fathers or fathers-in-law […]
What is khimar in Islam?
The term for head covering in the Qur’an is known as ‘Khimar’. The khimar originates from the trilateral verb `khamara’, which means `ghatta’ meaning to conceal, hide, or to cover something. “Let them wear their Khimar over their juyub” which is their chest.
What is a Shayla 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. 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.