There are many different coverings and veiling that have changed following the changes in societies and ideals. The burqa is a controversial covering that many countries have banned but it is hard to differentiate the different coverings. Through my own experiences, I realize that a lot of people actually do not completely understand nor able to differentiate between the style of different coverings. What is a burqa and how does it differ from a hijab or a niqab? The burqa is a full face and body covering, associated with Afghanistan. The hijab, a general term for modest dress code, also refers specifically to a scarf that covers the hair. It is the most popular veil worn in the West. A niqab is a veil that covers the face and showing only the eyes. The chador is a fully-body-length shawl
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This idea of the burqa is misleading because the meaning of a burqa has changed drastically after the rule of the Taliban. In 1996 when the Taliban ruled Afghanistan, the burqa was forced upon women under the law. During the period of Taliban regime, the burqa was indeed a representation of authority and oppression towards women and their freedom of movement. The burqa was used as a classification and identification of women from different groups and classes. As time progressed and ideals changed, the burqa now represents piety and educated urban sophistication. It is important to note that the burqa is not a part of Islamic teaching but rather it is a part of Muslim culture. Islamic teaching comes from the Quran, the Book of God as revealed to the Prophet Muhammad while the Muslim culture is a social phenomenon, akin to popular opinion. The wearing of the burqa is not mandated through the Quran – nor is the word mentioned – but instead it grew out from hadith, a collection of traditions based on the daily life and practices of the prophet
This idea of the burqa is misleading because the meaning of a burqa has changed drastically after the rule of the Taliban. In 1996 when the Taliban ruled Afghanistan, the burqa was forced upon women under the law. During the period of Taliban regime, the burqa was indeed a representation of authority and oppression towards women and their freedom of movement. The burqa was used as a classification and identification of women from different groups and classes. As time progressed and ideals changed, the burqa now represents piety and educated urban sophistication. It is important to note that the burqa is not a part of Islamic teaching but rather it is a part of Muslim culture. Islamic teaching comes from the Quran, the Book of God as revealed to the Prophet Muhammad while the Muslim culture is a social phenomenon, akin to popular opinion. The wearing of the burqa is not mandated through the Quran – nor is the word mentioned – but instead it grew out from hadith, a collection of traditions based on the daily life and practices of the prophet