Islamic modesty in dress is a powerful statement of religion, culture, and who you are. Knowing what is a jilbab in Islam is important for women so they can have an additional covering garment in their wardrobe.
The word ‘jilbab’ has many religious and cultural meanings. It is one of the several clothes that emphasise modesty for adult women.
What is Jilbab?
Traditionally, the jilbab is a long, loose outer garment for Muslim women. The source of the term means both ‘arrival’ and ‘covering,’. It fits with the fact that it is a courteous garment that fully covers someone.
Islamic teachings discuss it, such as when women would drop their jilbab over their faces when non-mahram males came near them on pilgrimage.
Read: What is the difference between a thobe and dishdasha
Religious and Cultural Aspects
Islamic scholars look at the jilbab through the lens of Qur'anic rules on modest attire, especially texts that say women should wear ‘outer garments’ in public.
There are several views on what is a jilbab in Islam. Some experts say it means covering the whole body, including the face. Others also say it allows for greater freedom. However, its basic idea is still humility and dignity.
Jilbab vs. Other Garments
The jilbab is different from other Islamic clothing. For instance:
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A hijab is usually a head covering that goes down to the shoulders.
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A jilbab covers more of the body, sometimes including the face.
In certain cultures, the abaya is a flowing outer garment. The jilbab is typically considered better because it serves multiple purposes.
Pair your thobe with a Yemeni shemagh.
Modern Use and Cultural Differences
People still wear a jilbab nowadays. However, it has various styles. For instance, in Indonesia, jilbab refers to only a headscarf - not a full-length garment. This shows how different people in the Muslim world see and use modest clothes in various ways.
Read the differences between keffiyeh and shemagh.
The Bottom Line
Comprehending what is a jilbab in Islam shows a devotion to modesty while following Islamic beliefs. Whether you wear it in a traditional or Islamic way, its purpose is the same - covering your physicality with grace and modesty.
Al-Haq Thobe has a wide choice of modest wear for men and women of all ages in the UK. Shop now!