Islam

This section focuses on veiling in Islam. There is a commonly-held belief among both Muslims and non-Muslims that Islam explicitly and unequivocally prescribes veiling upon Muslim women. Moreover, there is a parallel belief among both Muslims and non-Muslims that such a prescription is stated clearly in the Holy Book of Islam, that is the Quran. This section explores the central religious texts in Islam that treat the topic of veiling.

The Quran

In this section, we cite all passages from the Quran that address the topic of veiling.

The Hadith Tradition

Here, we examine key hadiths that are regularly invoked to justify veiling. The term “hadith” refers to the tradition of Reports that have preserved the Deeds and Sayings of the Prophet Mohamed. This tradition is considered foundational in Islam and viewed by Muslims as a key resource (second only to the Quran) that provides practical information on how Muslims are to behave on a daily basis.

Islamic Jurisprudence & Law

In this section, we present what Islamic Law (or Sharia) tells us about the requirement that Muslim women veil.

Interpretations

Here, we present both traditional and progressive interpretations of those passages in the Quran and Hadith that address the question of veiling.