The Role of Dress in Islamic Culture: An Analytical Study of Its Social and Ethical Foundations

اسلامی ثقافت میں لباس کی حیثیت اور اس کے سماجی و اخلاقی اصولوں کا تجزیاتی مطالعہ

Abstract

Dress in Islamic culture is not merely a physical covering but a symbol of identity, dignity, and moral consciousness. This research explores the multifaceted role of clothing in Islam, analyzing its religious, social, and ethical dimensions through both classical sources and contemporary discourse. The study aims to investigate how Islamic teachings shape dress codes and how these, in turn, influence social behavior, gender interaction, and collective moral standards in Muslim societies. Using a qualitative research methodology, the study draws from the Qur'an, Hadith, and opinions of classical and modern scholars to outline the foundational principles governing modesty (haya’), dignity (karamah), and social harmony. Furthermore, it critically examines the impact of modernity and globalization on traditional Islamic dress norms and how these influences are negotiated within various Muslim communities today. The paper also addresses the socio-political implications of Islamic dress, including issues of identity politics, cultural resistance, and legal controversies in both Muslim-majority and non-Muslim societies. By engaging with interdisciplinary perspectives from theology, sociology, and cultural studies, the study provides a comprehensive understanding of the role of dress in shaping Islamic cultural identity. The research concludes that Islamic dress codes are not rigid prescriptions, but moral frameworks meant to promote respect, balance, and societal order. It calls for a contextualized and respectful application of these principles in today’s globalized world.