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Contrary to widespread erroneous belief, and contrary to regrettable
practices in most Islamic societies where myths, traditions and anti-Islamic
cultures have won over Islamic teachings and where women are subdued and
oppressed for the sake of the male dominated society, God has enjoyed equality
for both men and women. Please
We will try, by God's will, to show you the true Islamic teaching about Woman and their position in today's Muslim society solely according to God's only source, Holy Qur'an.
The word "hijab" comes from the Arabic word "hajaba" meaning to hide from view or conceal. In the present time, the context of hijab is the modest covering of a Muslim woman. The question now is what is the extent of the covering? The Qur'an says:
"O Prophet, tell your wives and daughters and the believing women that they shall lengthen their uter garments (when they go out or are among men). That is better in order that they may be known (to be Muslims) and not annoyed..." (Qur'an 33:59)
"Say to the believing man that they should lower their gaze and guard their modesty; that will make for greater purity for them; and Allah is well acquainted with all that they do. And say to the believing women that they should lower their gaze and guard their modesty; and that they should not display their beauty and ornaments except what must ordinarily appear thereof; that they should cover their bosoms and not display their beauty except to their husbands..." (Qur'an 24:30-31)
According to the above verses, Women are required only to cover their chests and lengthen their garments or dresses. These are the only Quranic criteria for modesty in Women. Anything else beyond these points such as traditional Hijab, Chador, and veils are not sanction by God and are anti-Quranic. Off course these could be weared if only by personal preference but not as a religious observance.