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What are the proofs for the obligation of the hijab from the Qur'an and Sunnah, and what is the significance of the verses from Surat An-Nur and Surat Al-Ahzab regarding its obligation?

1 min readAlso available in العربية

There is abundant evidence in the Quran and the Prophetic Sunnah regarding the obligation of Hijab. From the Quran:

- The verses that call for covering adornments, wearing modest clothing, requesting items from behind a screen, and women staying in their homes and not displaying themselves like in the former days of ignorance. - The verses that explain the meaning of "jilbab" (outer garment) and "juyub" (bosoms), and command women to draw their head coverings over their bosoms to cover the neck and chest. - The story of Umm Al-Mu'minin Aisha, which indicates the swift response of the Muhajirat (female emigrants) to the command of Hijab and their covering of their faces.

And from the Prophetic Sunnah:

- The Ahadith that describe women who are "clothed yet naked," who will not enter Paradise nor even perceive its fragrance. - The Hadith of Umm Salamah, which clarifies the obligation for women to lengthen their garments to cover their feet, as they are part of the'awrah (that which must be covered).

The jurists have unanimously agreed on the obligation of a woman covering her'awrah from non-mahram men, covering her entire body except for the face and hands. Some even hold the view that the face, hands, and ears are 'awrah.

Therefore, the sacred texts are clear in their indication of the obligation of Hijab, and there should be no objection to the method of divine legislation. When the meaning of a sacred text is unclear, it must be referred back to the firm (muhkam) texts and understood through the Prophetic Sunnah and the sayings of trustworthy scholars.

Summarized from the full answer at Ftawy · reviewed Sep 2, 2026

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