Muslim Body Covers

Criterion A: Rationale and Preliminary Research Hijabs, burkas, and other forms of coverings worn by Muslim women have always mystified me. Since I was raised in the Catholic faith in the United States, women in long shawls covering themselves was not a sight I saw often. However, I think their presence is interesting and regard them with curiosity, as I have questions surrounding these head and body coverings that I would like to have answered so I can better understand the faith of Islam. Mainly, why do Muslim women wear hijabs, burkas, and other forms of coverings? During my preliminary research, I began to learn basic information about head coverings in the Muslim faith. I have always been curious as to if wearing a head covering was mandatory, but I have come to understand that at least in some families in America it is not (Khalid). When Muslim girls come of age, they may choose to begin to wear the hijab, a decision
I would like to know what the difference is between the types of coverings such as a burka, niqab, and chador, and if they hold any spiritual differences. Especially for women living in the Middle East, I wonder if the body covering is mostly for their faith or if the environment plays a part in their decision to cover their full body. I also wonder how it came to be that Muslim women had to wear headscarves, and why the men never did. It will be interesting to find out the history of coverings, and how this affects why women wear them now. I am curious to see what the Qur’an says about women covering themselves, and if it says that women who wear coverings will somehow be “rewarded” in heaven or elsewhere. I understand this is very important, especially in society today, that we approach the Muslim faith with an open mind and are willing to understand and respect what Muslim women go through every day when they put on a hijab or