Jilbabs

The meaning of Jilbab

The term jilbāb or jilbaab (Arabic جلباب) is the plural of the word jilaabah which refers to any long and loose-fit coat or garment worn by some Muslim women. They believe that this definition of jilbab fulfills the Quranic demand for a Hijab. Jilbab or Jilaabah is also known as Jubbah or Manteau (which is the French word for coat or mantle).

The modern jilbāb covers the entire body, except for hands, face, and head. The head and neck are then covered by a scarf or wrap (khimar). Some women will also cover the hands and face (niqab).

The usage of the term Jilbab refers to any long and loose-fit coat or garment worn by Muslim women, other terms which have same meaning are jelbab, galabeya, caftan and Djellaba.

Many Muslim countries have the restriction of wearing Jilbab / Abaya. However, there is not any restriction to wear Hijab or Abaya / Jilbab in many Islamic countries but Muslim women wear Julbab / Abaya and Hijabs to practice Islamic Clothing.

Saudi Arabia requires women to cover in public. Covering is enforced by the religious police. In Iran the cover is often referred to as a Chador. In South Asia, it is known as a Burqa.

In Indonesia, the word jilbab is used for a headscarf rather than a long baggy overgarment (Geertz). In recent years, a short visor is often included to protect the face from the tropical sun.

In Canada, United States of America and in many European countries, Muslims and New Muslims are wearing these Jilbabs, Abayas, Hijabs or Muslim Veils to practice Islamic Clothing. In some European contrirs, these Muslims or New Muslims women are facing banes, terror and opposition for wearing Hijabs, Islamic Veils in public places. But they want to keep practicing this Islamic Clothing.

Abayat are known by various names like "Abata", "Jilbab", "Burqa" but serve the same purpose, which is to cover. Contemporary models are usually caftans, cut from light, flowing fabrics like crepe, georgette, and chiffon. Styles differ from region to region: some abayat have embroidery on black material while others are brightly coloured and have different forms of artwork across them.