Although here in Saudi Arabia, the abaya is a religious requirement of Muslim women, we Non-Muslim women are also required to wear an abaya when we leave military compounds. It is my understanding that they think of the abaya as a way to make all women equal and without reason to concern themselves with the latest fashion or hair styles. Also, the abaya is worn so not to become prey to lustful men. Thus, Muslim women wear the abaya when around men other than her family. I've tried to take notice of what women wear with and under the abaya and admit that I've seen everything from stilettos to fuzzy slippers.
For me the abaya proved to be both a blessing and a curse. I like not having to worry about what I'm wearing or matching my clothes but getting in and out of a vehicle or going up stairs can prove difficult.
As for the hijab or hair scarf, Non-Muslim women are not required to cover their hair but usually carry a scarf with them just in case Muttawa catch them with their hair uncovered. You see the King set the rules for visitors but the Muttawa, or religious police, have rules of their own. I've been caught without my hair covered before and they just asked me to cover my hair to which I complied.
No comments:
Post a Comment