Exactly what is a Hijab?
There is quite a bit of controversy about exactly what a hijab is. If one looks towards tradition only, the word can mean a garment that covers a woman’s entire body, leaving only the face uncovered. But in more modern terms, it has come to mean a large scarf used to drape the head and neck, covering the hair entirely but leaving the face uncovered.
There is also great controversy as to whether this head covering is mandatory or a choice on the woman’s part. Some critics of the practice say that wearing it subjugates a woman, makes her a target for hate crimes and is just demeaning in general. But it seems that just as many Muslim women feel strongly that wearing this scarf is a sign of modesty and adherence to Muslim law. They say it actually protects them by forcing people to look at their face and not concentrate too much on their over-all appearance.
No matter what the critics may say, it is a popular practice among devout Muslim women. And there are many modern styles for women to choose from. The hijab has come a long way from the simple black scarf. It is now available in hundreds of different materials and styles. Many are adorned with beading, decorative stones and other beautiful and trendy additions. There is hijabs for every outfit and occasion.
While there doesn’t seem to be a consensus concerning the wearing of the scarves, there is no doubt that the tradition will continue, and that it has become a fashion accessory for many Muslim women.
