What Is a Burqa?

To the Western mind, the burqa has often been and continues to be a source of mystery and intrigue. Many ask questions about this dress code, for example why women from the East wear these garments. The history of the burqa can be traced back to Islamic tradition. While it has consequently elicited mixed reactions from both Western and Eastern nations, the burqa continues to hold an important place in modern society.

Identification

A burqa (burka or burkha, according to some transliterations) is a loose cloak-like garment worn by Muslim women. The burqa is made of either light cotton or crepe and most often comes in black. It covers the woman's entire body, with the exception of her hands, feet and eyes. A panel of veil-like or mesh material situated on the top portion of the face reveals the woman's eyes, allowing her to see and breathe. The cap that holds the fabric is often embellished with stitching.

Purpose

The tradition of wearing burqas is explained by Islamic law, which states that women must wear modest clothing. Modesty of dress ensures that a woman's body and beauty are kept private. In addition, clothing should not attract attention or used as a symbol of wealth or social status. As a result, burqas are made of material that is thick enough to prevent others from seeing through it. Worn over a long dress or other clothing, the loose fabric of the burqa ensures that the shape of the body remains hidden.

Geography

The burqa is primarily worn by women in Pakistan, India and Afghanistan. Under the Taliban regime in Aghanistan, all women--including foreign visitors--were required to wear burqas. Today, it is no longer a necessity but still the preferred choice of many women, who wear the burqa as a safety measure given their country's volatile political regime. Burqas are sometimes also seen in Europe, where they are worn by women who are married to Muslim men and choose to respect Islamic tradition.

Limitations

Some women complain that the burqa significantly restricts their freedom of movement and comfort. According to some women, it blocks the senses, particularly peripheral vision. In addition, the countries in which the burqa is typically worn tend to experience very hot temperatures, causing some to complain that the hot and stuffy garment is unbearable, particularly during the summer. Others say that the long layers of fabric often get caught on doorknobs or under the feet, making walking difficult.

Considerations

More and more the burqa finds itself at the center of controversy. Some see the burqa as an obstacle to social progress, interpreting it as an imposition of second class status on female citizens. In France, display of any religion symbols, including Islamic face covering, has been banned and similar debate over this issue has taken place in the UK. Muslim groups, meanwhile, have voiced outrage and opposition to such actions, accusing Western governments of intolerance towards the Muslim faith and its followers.