The way Muslim women dress is amongst the most misunderstood and misconstrued topic. It is a highly controversial discussion as it is among the most commonly discussed issues raised to show how Islam is repressive towards women.
Most people who deem the dress code prescribed in Islam for women as oppressive and forceful lack knowledge regarding Islamic directives on how women should dress. It is necessary to educate them; no better source to refute such claims than the Holy Quran.
The Holy Book is the direct word of Allah Almighty. Here is some information about women’s clothing as mentioned in the Holy Quran:
Dress Code Prescribed For Both Genders
While there is much focus on the way Muslim women dress, the reality is that Islam has prescribed a dress code for both men and women. The central focus is modesty and since men and women are biologically different, Allah in the Holy Quran has specified appropriate clothing depending on each gender.
Allah in the Holy Quran says:
“O Prophet! Tell the believing men to lower their gaze and guard their chastity. That is purer for them. Surely Allah is All-Aware of what they do.” [24:30]
The verse quoted above precedes the verse directing women to do the same and then details the type of clothing women should wear and which relation is allowed to see them without their veils.
This shows how Islam practices equality among the genders by requiring both to exercise modesty. It does not matter whether you are a man or a woman; modesty is key.
Women Must Conceal Their Bodies
Islam recognizes that women encapsulate beauty. This beauty needs to be guarded and protected. This is why clothing instructions for women are far greater than for men.
In Surah an-Nur Allah says:
“And tell the believing women to lower their gaze and guard their chastity, and not to reveal their adornments except what normally appears. Let them draw their veils over their chests, and not reveal their hidden adornments except to their husbands, their fathers, their fathers-in-law, their sons, their stepsons, their brothers, their brothers’ sons or sisters’ sons, their fellow women, those bondwomen in their possession, male attendants with no desire, or children who are still unaware of women’s nakedness. Let them not stomp their feet, drawing attention to their hidden adornments. Turn to Allah in repentance all together, O believers, so that you may be successful” [24:31]
The above verse is the most comprehensive and oft-quoted verse regarding how Muslim women should dress. It also mentions how the strict dress code can be relaxed in certain circumstances.
Command Regarding The Veil
The veil is a matter of great contention. According to the Holy Quran, women must dress in a manner that hides their beauty. This includes the prohibition of form-fitting clothing that display the figure. It also prohibits the use of transparent fabrics that conceal every little.
Hair is seen as a symbol of feminine beauty and must be covered around men not mentioned in the verse of Surah an-Nur quoted above.
The dress code prescribed for women in Islam receives much attention. The reality is that modest clothing is for the protection of women. Communicating this to people who view revealing their bodies as liberating and freeing is hard.
The truth is that most people do not recognize the social decay such attitudes have fostered. The erosion of morality is evident in places where modesty has been forgotten. In Surah Yaseen Allah says:
“By Quran, rich in wisdom.” [36:2]
Allah is swearing by the Holy Quran and highlighting how the Book is rich in knowledge and wisdom beyond human comprehension. It is hard to comprehend Allah’s wisdom; however, the best we can do is not argue against the directives in the Holy Book. Instead, we should follow them to improve our lives here and for the Hereafter.
Author Bio:
Rafia is a certified Quran scholar and Islamic content writer based in Pakistan. She is passionate about educating and inspiring others through her writing, promoting a deeper understanding of Islamic principles. She occasionally writes articles for Muslim And Quran.
