Muslim dress

Ivy Susanti's writing on facts about Islam gives readers a brief overview about the religion. But, why did she take so much space just to discuss Muslim dress, especially Muslim women's clothes, in this case: jilbab? (The Jakarta Post, Oct. 14, 2001: What is it all about? Islam).

In fact there are many other aspects of the religion reflecting its contribution to the modern sciences, literature, philosophy, mysticism, etc. which should have been touched on briefly.

The instruction to wear a head scarf for women is not only found in the Koran, but also in the New Testament (1 Corinthians, 11:5-6).

The restriction on Muslim dress is referred to in the Prophet's directions in the Hadith (Prophet Muhammad's expressions, deeds, and his silence over his companions's actions and remarks) -- called aurat, namely all parts of the female body, except the face and hands should be covered, while for the male, from navel to knee.

Muslim women who wear the chador (veil) in the Middle East are generally also influenced by the local customs and traditions as well as geographical and climatic considerations.

DARUL AQSHA

Jakarta