The Controversial Commodity of Hijab _{Fashion Culture Encryptor Series}
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The hijab, or head cover, is a very common practice and style in Arab countries. It represents modesty, and its practice is “supposedly” based on Islamic ideology. Its widespread use is synonymous with the understanding of Islamic doctrine and the philosophy or wisdom behind the practice.
However, if one engages in a conversation with those who wear the hijab—or looks closely into their adoption of Islamic teachings—there might be a second thought about the concept of hijab itself.
Overlooked Teachings of Islam
Many people overlook the core teachings of Islam while focusing only on the appearance. The Five Pillars of Islam are:
The testimony that Allah is God and Muhammad (peace be upon him) is His Prophet.
Performing the five daily prayers.
Paying zakah (financial contribution to the community if wealth exceeds certain limits).
Fasting during Ramadan.
Pilgrimage to Makkah, if possible.
Additionally, the Islamic belief system rests on six foundations: the recognition of Allah, belief in the prophets, Allah’s heavenly creations (angels), His revealed books, fate and destiny (good or bad), and the Day of Judgment.
Yet, in my encounters in Egypt, few tend to ask or inquire about these deeper aspects of the faith. Instead, conversations often revolve around appearance—hair, hijab, or niqab/burqa. Nothing “behind the scenes” seems to be valued as much as the final look.
Hijab and Social Status
Instead of drawing closer to Allah through understanding religion, people seem to focus on adding another layer of fabric or length to a blouse. It becomes their only way to represent religious devotion.
There is a saying: “The flaws of the body can be concealed by fabric, while the flaws of the mind are revealed by discussions.”
Indeed, even those with no faith at all can wear the hijab, burqa, or long garments as a disguise. For some, appearing like a faithful Muslim seems to be achieved in just one step: wearing what a committed Muslim wears.
The True Value of Hijab
If we look more closely, however, we will find that hijab is not just a style for a good impression. It was an order from Allah that came after the fundamental practices of Islam. Hijab becomes obligatory for Muslim women after puberty.
Its purpose is to:
Honor Muslim women.
Protect them from superficial judgment and unwanted attention.
Remind them of their religion.
Protect society from infatuation.
These lessons form the essence of hijab.
Hijab as Commodity
Over time, however, hijab became a market commodity. It turned into a fashion style with competing traders. This is not necessarily wrong but reflects how something with deep spiritual essence can become entangled in business and lose its true meaning.
Hijab, once a religious obligation, is now marketed as scarves in multiple styles to suit demand. Even debates about hijab often focus on whether it looks attractive, appealing, or not—rarely on the reasons behind it or its role in Islamic teachings.
Hijab as Statement
Throughout history, hijab has carried political and social weight. Yet, what lies behind it supposedly —its religious, spiritual, and moral essence—matters far more than appearance.
Some may support hijab, others may reject it, but the question remains: why? Is it just a cover for the hair and body, or does it carry deeper meaning or an even cover-up for something else?! Is a Dress to impress ? In what way?!
Perhaps, instead of heated arguments about hijab, we should ask: What other important aspects of religion deserve more of our focus?
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