Hijab vs. Burqa — What's the Difference?
By Maham Liaqat & Fiza Rafique — Updated on April 15, 2024
Hijab covers the hair and neck, symbolizing modesty in many Islamic cultures; the burqa covers the entire body and face, reflecting stricter adherence to privacy.
Difference Between Hijab and Burqa
Table of Contents
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Key Differences
The hijab is primarily a headscarf that covers the hair, neck, and sometimes shoulders, emphasizing modesty in Islamic traditions. Whereas the burqa is a full-body covering that includes a mesh screen to cover the face, representing a more comprehensive approach to modesty and privacy.
In many Muslim societies, wearing a hijab is seen as a sign of religious faith and cultural identity. On the other hand, the burqa, while also serving these purposes, is more prevalent in specific regions like Afghanistan and parts of Pakistan, indicating deeper cultural and regional ties.
The hijab allows the wearer's face to be seen and is accepted as a common form of dress in many parts of the Muslim world. In contrast, the burqa, which conceals the face and body, often relates to local customs and interpretations of Islamic teachings on modesty.
Adoption of the hijab can be linked to personal choice and the interpretation of modesty, which varies widely among Muslims. Conversely, the burqa is sometimes viewed as a requirement in certain conservative areas, influenced by strict interpretations of Sharia law.
The global perception of the hijab is as a symbol of Muslim identity, often debated in terms of religious freedom and women's rights in Western countries. Conversely, the burqa is frequently at the center of more intense debates due to its full-face veil, raising issues of security and integration in non-Muslim societies.
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Comparison Chart
Coverage
Hair, neck, sometimes shoulders
Entire body, including face with a mesh
Cultural Significance
Symbol of modesty and identity
Represents strict privacy standards
Regional Usage
Widely used globally
Predominantly in Afghanistan, Pakistan
Visibility of Face
Face is visible
Face is covered with a mesh screen
Legal and Social Debate
Less controversial in Western societies
Often subject to bans and high controversy in non-Muslim countries
Compare with Definitions
Hijab
Reflects a broad range of interpretations within Islam.
Her interpretation of wearing a hijab differs from her sister's.
Burqa
Reflects specific regional and cultural practices within Islam.
The use of the burqa is closely tied to cultural norms in Afghanistan.
Hijab
A cultural symbol that represents Muslim identity.
The hijab often sparks discussions about religious freedom.
Burqa
A full-body veil that includes a mesh screen to cover the face.
In her community, wearing a burqa is a common practice.
Hijab
A piece of clothing that can be styled in various ways.
She collects hijabs of different colors and fabrics.
Burqa
A garment associated with strict interpretations of modesty.
The burqa is mandated in certain conservative regions.
Hijab
An element of personal choice among many Muslim women.
Deciding to wear a hijab was an important personal decision for her.
Burqa
Often discussed in the context of women’s rights and freedom.
Debates about the burqa frequently surface in international forums.
Hijab
A headscarf worn by some Muslim women as a sign of modesty.
She wears a hijab in accordance with her religious practices.
Burqa
Subject to legal challenges in various countries.
She follows the legal debate on the burqa ban in her country.
Hijab
A hijab (; Arabic: حجاب, romanized: ḥijāb, pronounced [ħɪˈdʒaːb] in common English usage) is a religious veil worn by Muslim women in the presence of any male outside of their immediate family, which usually covers the hair, head and chest. The term can refer to any hair, head, face, or body covering worn by Muslim women that conforms to Islamic standards of modesty.
Burqa
A burqa or burka (Arabic: برقع), also known as a chadaree (Pashto: چادري) in Afghanistan or a paranja (Russian: паранджа́; Tatar: пәрәнҗә) in Central Asia, is an enveloping outer garment which covers the body and the face that is worn by women in some Islamic traditions. The Arab version of the burqa is called the boshiya, and is usually black in color.
Hijab
Any of several cloth head coverings worn by Muslim women.
Burqa
A loose, usually black or light blue outer garment worn by Muslim women that covers the head and face and sometimes the entire body.
Hijab
The veiling of women in some Islamic societies, customarily practiced in order to maintain standards of modesty.
Burqa
Alternative spelling of burka.
Hijab
The practice, among Muslim women, of covering the body after the age of puberty in front of non-related adult males.
Burqa
A loose garment (usually with veiled holes for the eyes) worn by Muslim women especially in India and Pakistan;
The Taliban forced all women to wear the burqa
Hijab
(countable) A traditional headscarf worn by Muslim women, covering the hair and neck.
Hijab
A headscarf worn by Muslim women; conceals the hair and neck and usually has a face veil that covers the face
Hijab
The custom in some Islamic societies of women dressing modestly outside the home;
She observes the hijab and does not wear tight clothing
Common Curiosities
What is the main purpose of wearing a hijab?
The main purpose is to maintain modesty and privacy according to Islamic principles.
Does wearing a burqa signify anything besides religious adherence?
It also signifies cultural identity and adherence to specific regional interpretations of Islam.
Is the burqa mandated by religion?
The requirement varies by interpretation and region; it is more cultural than strictly religious.
How are hijab and burqa viewed in non-Muslim countries?
The hijab is generally more accepted, while the burqa can be controversial and is sometimes subject to bans.
Can the hijab be worn with other types of clothing?
Yes, it is often paired with a variety of Western and traditional clothing.
Is it possible to participate in sports while wearing a hijab?
Yes, many sports organizations now accommodate and even produce sport-specific hijabs.
How does the burqa affect social interactions?
It can limit facial recognition and non-verbal communication.
Are there fashion trends related to hijabs?
Yes, fashion trends influence the styles, fabrics, and colors of hijabs.
What are the legal implications of wearing a burqa in Europe?
Several European countries have bans or restrictions on wearing burqas in public spaces.
Are there health impacts associated with wearing a burqa?
Some argue it could impact vitamin D absorption due to less skin exposure to sunlight.
What is the difference between a niqab and a burqa?
A niqab covers the face but leaves the eyes visible, unlike the burqa which covers the entire face.
What are some misconceptions about the hijab?
Common misconceptions include that it is oppressive or universally mandated within Islam.
How does climate affect the wearing of a hijab or burqa?
In hotter climates, lighter and more breathable fabrics are chosen.
What role does family play in deciding to wear a hijab or burqa?
Family influence varies widely, from encouragement to it being a personal choice.
What are some challenges faced by women who choose to wear a burqa?
Challenges include navigating public perceptions and dealing with legal restrictions in some countries.
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Written by
Maham Liaqat
Co-written by
Fiza RafiqueFiza Rafique is a skilled content writer at AskDifference.com, where she meticulously refines and enhances written pieces. Drawing from her vast editorial expertise, Fiza ensures clarity, accuracy, and precision in every article. Passionate about language, she continually seeks to elevate the quality of content for readers worldwide.
