Is the head covering (hijab) mandated for women the khimar or the niqab, and did the Messenger of Allah, peace and blessings be upon him, intend the niqab for women in two situations: either if she is beautiful and draws attention, or if she is ugly and people are repulsed by her? And does the noble verse: "And let them cast their head coverings over their bosoms" refer to the khimar?
Covering the face is obligatory for a woman, according to the more preponderant of scholarly opinions. This ruling includes both beautiful and unattractive women. The aforementioned hadith has no basis. The meaning of the verse and its indication of the niqab have been explained in previous fatwas.
Summarized from the full answer at Ftawy · reviewed Sep 2, 2026
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