Concept in Definition ABC

In some Arab countries, women must cover their bodies with a garment when they are outside their homes. This custom has some variations, since there are three different garments: the hijab, the niqab and the burka. The first is a veil or scarf that is used among Muslim women to cover their hair. The second is a veil that covers the hair and also the face, but the eyes are exposed.

Finally, the burka is a garment that covers the entire body of the woman, since even her eyes are covered by a mesh or mesh of cloth.

In western countries it is accepted with total normality that an Arab woman wears the hijab or niqab, since it is understood that both garments are part of a tradition culture that must be respected. However, wearing the burqa provokes opposite reactions.

The origin of the burqa predates Islam

Some towns of the desert they covered their bodies completely to protect themselves from sandstorms, and this tradition is unrelated to the rise of Islam in the 7th century AD. C or with any precept of the Qur'an.

The burqa as it is known today began to be worn in Afghanistan at the beginning of the 20th century when the leader of the nation Afghani imposed its use on the women of her harem. With this rule He made it impossible for other men to observe the women who made up his personal harem.

The Burqa Debate

In the West there is no legal difference that distinguishes men and women. Both sexes have the same rights and obligations and when there is some form of discrimination of the woman there is usually a reaction against. Although there are macho behaviors, the movement feminist and society as a whole has achieved that men and women live on a plane of equality or, at least, with fewer inequalities than in other times.

The use of the burqa causes controversy because it enters into conflict with the legal and social equality of women. The fact that a woman has to cover herself in her totality raises doubts and questions that do not have an easy answer: is it a free decision of the woman or is it a male imposition? Is it a cultural tradition like any other and therefore must it be respected? Can you be tolerant against those who impose their intolerance on women? Can you legislate against this type of clothing because it violates the image and the dignity of women? Is it acceptable for a woman to live in a kind of jail?

Photos: Fotolia - Carlos Santa Maria / Joachim Martin