Introduction
Many Muslim women question the origin of the commandment to cover their hair and body. To address this, it is vital to explore how rulings in Islamic law are derived, using the obligation of hijab as a case study. This article examines the sources jurists rely on, clarifies the term "hijab," and delves into the methodology of deriving legal rulings.
Understanding the Term Hijab
The contemporary usage of the word "hijab" as merely a headscarf is misleading. Linguistically, hijab refers to a barrier or partition, as seen in the Qur’an’s various contexts, such as [Sūrat al-Aʿrāf, 44-46] and [Sūrat Fuṣṣilat, verse 5]. The Qur’anic mandate for the Prophet’s wives to maintain a physical barrier [Sūrat al-Aḥzāb, verse 53] illustrates that hijab historically meant more than just a headscarf.
For clarity, this article uses "hijab" to refer to covering both the hair and body, with loose and opaque clothing.
Qur’anic Exegesis and the Legal Ruling on Hijab
Understanding the Qur’an requires tafsīr (exegesis). Early Companions, like Ibn ʿAbbās, interpreted [Sūrat al-Nūr, verse 31] to mean that women must cover their bodies, excluding the face and hands. Similarly, the clause to “draw their khumur over their chests” reinforces the obligation to cover the head and chest.
The term khumur (plural of khimār) originates from the root kh-m-r, meaning to conceal. Classical dictionaries like Lisān al-ʿArab affirm that khimār refers to a head covering. Thus, the Qur’anic command adopts a pre-Islamic custom of head covering and elevates it to a divine commandment, extending it to include the chest.
Legal and Cultural Perspectives
Some argue that covering the hair is merely cultural. However, Islamic law either prohibits, reforms, or affirms cultural practices. The Qur’an affirmed the practice of head covering and made it obligatory. This differs from cultural norms, which only influence the style and color of the hijab, not its requirement.
Binding Nature of the Hijab
The binding nature of hijab is evident in the Qur’an and Sunnah, similar to other religious obligations like honoring parents. Without evidence to the contrary, the presumption is that texts on hijab are legally binding.
Why the Obligation May Seem Implicit
Some wonder why the hijab is not explicitly detailed in the Qur’an. However, foundational acts like the five daily prayers are also not fully detailed but are universally accepted due to prophetic precedent. Similarly, the obligation of hijab stems from clear Qur’anic verses and prophetic practice, leaving no room for doubt.
Conclusion
The obligation for Muslim women to cover their hair and body is rooted in both the Qur’an and prophetic tradition. It reflects a natural extension of modesty, firmly grounded in Islamic legal methodology and historical precedent. This obligation, like other core aspects of Islam, is integral to the faith and its practice.