Monday, September 2, 2013

Important Information About The Islamic Turban

By Amanda Baird


An Islamic turban is a common headdress in regions of the world where Islam is the predominant religion. Wrapping a turban signifies the traditions, unique personality and beliefs of the wearer. Many Muslims wear turbans for religious, cultural and customary purposes. There are numerous stereotypes and misconceptions surrounding the practice of wrapping this turban. It is commonly associated with terrorism but this does not prevent Muslims from wrapping them.

It is a long and slender piece of fabric used by Muslim men to cover their heads. The length varies from five to nine meters. These turbans are fashioned from different materials. The quality of the resulting headdress depends on the type of material used. The common materials include synthetics, fine muslin, cotton and silk.

There are various ways in which these wraps can be made. Once it has been tied on the head, it is held upright by its own tension or gravity. These styles vary according to the event at hand. Muslims are encouraged to familiarize themselves with the different wrapping techniques. This is because tight wraps may cause headaches and thus are uncomfortable to wear.

They are available in very many colors. The common colors include navy blue, orange, green, white and black. Color plays a significant role in determining the purpose for which the turban is used. Different colors symbolize wealth, prosperity and events. Those that are brightly colored are mainly worn by wealthy individuals as well as those with leadership roles in the society. During celebratory events individuals prefer brightly colored wraps which are decorated with jewelry. Dull colors are suitable for funerals and other solemn occasions.

It is widely used in areas that experience long periods of sunshine. In the Middle East for example, the daytime temperatures are extremely high throughout the year. The inhabitants of this region wrap these turbans to protect their skulls from the scorching sun. They are also suitable for the desert environment. They provide protection against dust in the windy and dusty environment.

This headdress is worn by scholars and religious leaders which forms a basis of identifying them. They mainly white ones around a special cap and a scarf. Descendants of Prophet Muhammad are often seen wearing black wraps. The colors vary from one region to another. White wraps are common in Egypt and Sudan while green wraps are mainly worn in Saudi Arabia.

In these societies, wrapping a turban is regarded as a modest way of dressing. It portrays several values that are highly regarded in Islam. These include self-respect, manhood and devotion. Green and white turbans are believed to represent the color of paradise. Some people believe that this practice has an influence on the manner prayers are answered. For this reason, they wear turbans during prayer sessions and also as a way of keeping their religious beliefs.

The Islamic turban is very important in Islam. For ages, it has been used as a basis for distinguishing Muslims from non-Muslims. It helps them to easily identify their own which in turn strengthens social ties within the Islamic religion. It is imperative for Muslim women to mask their faces and cover their heads. An equivalent of this turban worn by women is the hijab. This is worn by women when attending public places.




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