The abaya is an essential piece of clothing in Islam. But who wears abayas, and why is it necessary for Muslims?
Muslim women wear abayas to demonstrate physical modesty. This long, flowing robe-like garment aims to cover up the body. It is usually in black.
Women wear abayas mostly in Muslim-majority nations like Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates, Qatar, and other countries in the Arabian Peninsula. However, their renown has gone far beyond these borders. Muslim women have come to wear this outfit to represent piety and modesty.
Identification of Elegant Modesty
Women opt to wear abayas primarily to uphold Islamic standards of modesty. The clothing hides body curves and conceals attractive characteristics by covering the body from neck to foot. This modesty encompasses attitude and mannerisms in addition to outward appearance.
The abaya has religious and traditional roots. Women wear it as a statement piece of clothing. Contemporary designs use a variety of materials, patterns, and accents. The abaya gives women the freedom to show their individuality while still following modest dress standards.
Is it Compulsory to Wear an Abaya in Islam?
Now that you know who wears abayas, it is essential to learn if Islam considers it an obligation.
Islam emphasises that men and women conceal their bodily characteristics. The wearing of abayas is not written in the Quran or Hadees.
Instead, it emphasises humility in attire and conduct for men and women. Therefore, wearing an abaya is more of a cultural requirement that also fulfils religious duties for women's clothing.
Islam's Modesty
Islam encourages modesty in both genders. For women, it usually means dressing in loose-fitting garments that hide the body; the headscarf, or hijab, is a popular representation of modesty. The abaya expands this idea, which offers more coverage and concealment.
For men, Islam advises to wear loose-fitting modest clothes. Most importantly, it emphasises that men lower their gaze instead of staring at the opposite gender.
Academic Explanations
Divergent views exist among Islamic scholars about the donning of abayas. While some contend that it is not required, others say it is advised to uphold the concept of humility. The choice to wear an abaya ultimately comes down to the person and how they understand Islamic beliefs.
Individual Decision-Making and Liberty
It is essential to understand that, like other clothing, donning an abaya should be a matter of personal preference. Some women prefer to wear it to represent their cultural identity and religion. In contrast, many others might choose to wear more modest clothing options.
Islam supports individual freedom of choice and urges people to dress in a way consistent with their modest values and beliefs.
The Bottom Line
The topic of who wears abayas spans a broad spectrum of women, including those in Western nations and traditional Muslim civilisations. Our butterfly abayas represent religious and cultural value. Wearing them depends on how you interpret Islamic teachings on modesty and your personal preferences.