What is the Hijab? Literally means “covering” Generally refers to the code of dress required of Muslim women and men A “modest” form of dress Also refers to the headscarf worn by Muslim women concealing the hair & neck This dress code has been subject to debate both in Muslim countries and the West

What’s the Koran’s dress code? No precise dress code is spelled out in the Koran “O Prophet! Tell thy wives and thy daughters and the women of the believers to draw their cloaks (veils) all over their bodies. That will be better, that they should be known (as free respectable women) so as to not be annoyed.” “Say to the believing women that they should lower their gaze and guard their modesty; that they should not display their beauty and ornaments except what must ordinarily appear thereof.” It is also believed that Mohammad stated women should only show their face and hands...

Rules for Women’s Dress Most Islamic scholars would agree that women’s dress... Must cover the entire body, with the exception of face and hands Must be loose and not eye catching Cannot be see-through or resemble men’s clothing

Requirements for Men? The Koran requires men to dress a certain way as well... “Say to the believing man that they should lower their gaze and guard their modesty; that will make for greater purity for them, and God is well acquainted with all they do.” [Quran: 24.30) Rules for Male Dress Must be covered to knees Clothing should not be tight Should not attempt to attract attention

Expression or Oppression? Critics of the hijab say that this form of dress oppresses women, violates their human rights and places them in an inferior position to men. Currently 2 nations, (Saudi Arabia and Iran) require women to wear some form of hijab. Some supporters say that the hijab is an expression of modesty, and it prevents people from judging based on appearances.