Hijab

In modern usage, hijab (Arabic: حجاب, romanized: ḥijāb, pronounced [ħɪˈdʒaːb]) generally refers to variety of head coverings conventionally worn by many religious Muslim women as an expression of faith.^[1][2] Such women may be called "hijabi". Similar to the mitpaḥat/tichel or snood worn by religious married Jewish women, certain headcoverings worn by some Christian women, such as the hanging veil, apostolnik and kapp,^[3][4] and the dupatta favored by many Hindu and Sikh women,^[5][6][7] the hijab comes in various forms. Often, it specifically describes a scarf that is wrapped around the head, covering the hair, neck, and ears while leaving the face visible.^[8][9] The use of the hijab has grown globally since the 1970s, with many Muslims viewing it as a symbol of modesty and faith; it is also worn as a form of adornment.^[8][10] There is consensus among Islamic religious scholars that covering the head is either required or preferred.^{[11][12][13][14]} In practice, most Muslim women choose to wear it.^{[15][16][12][17]}

The term ḥijāb was originally used to denote a partition or a curtain and was sometimes used for Islamic rules of modesty.^[8][18] In the verses of the Qur'an, the term refers to a curtain separating visitors to Muhammad's main house from his wives' lodgings. This has led some to claim that the mandate of the Qur'an applied only to the wives of Muhammad and not to all women.^[19][20] Another interpretation can also refer to the seclusion of women from men in the public sphere, whereas a metaphysical dimension may refer to "the veil which separates man, or the world, from God".^[21] The Qur'an never uses the word hijab (lit. 'barrier') to refer to women's clothing, but rather discusses the attire of women using other terms Jilbāb and khimār (generic headscarf).^{[22][8][23][18][24][25]}

There is variation in interpretations regarding the extent of covering required. Some legal systems accept the hijab as an order to cover everything except the face and hands,^[26][21] whilst others accept it as an order to cover the whole body, including the face and hands.^[27] These guidelines are found in texts of hadith and fiqh developed after the revelation of the Qur'an. Some state that these guidelines are aligned with Qur'anic verses (ayahs) about hijab,^[14][28] while others interpret them differently and argue that its not mandated.^[29][30] Reformist groups claim that veiling is a recommendation rooted in historical context rather than an absolute mandate.^[30][31]

Islamic veiling practices vary globally based on local laws and customs. In some regions, the hijab is mandated by law, while in others, its use is subject to restrictions or bans in both Europe and some Muslim countries.^[32][33] Additionally, women face informal pressure regarding their choice to wear or not wear the hijab.^[34][35] Discrimination against Muslims often affects women more due to the hijab making them more visible, leading to workplace prejudice, particularly after the rise of Islamophobia post-9/11.^[36] Hijab-wearing Muslim women face both overt and covert discrimination in job applications and workplace environments, with covert bias often resulting in more hostile treatment.^[37] Perceived discrimination can harm well-being,^[38] but may also be overcome by religious pride and community; studies show hijab-wearing women often find greater strength and belonging despite challenges.^[39]