Clothing Structure and Shariah Standards in Islamic Civilization: A Research Review

اسلامی تہذیب میں لباس کی ساخت اورشرعی معیارات:تحقیقی جائزہ

Abstract

Clothing in Islamic civilization reflects the intricate balance between necessity, modesty, and aesthetic values as prescribed by Shariah. Derived from the Arabic term Lubs, clothing serves as both a practical and spiritual component of human life. Unlike other creatures equipped with natural coverings, humans are endowed with intelligence to create clothing that fulfills diverse purposes, including protection, adornment, and social identification. Islamic teachings emphasize modesty, and clothing is viewed as a means of concealing the body and preserving moral values. This paper explores the classifications of clothing in Islam: obligatory (farḍ), recommended (mustaḥabb), permissible (mubāḥ), and discouraged (makrūh). Distinctions are made between men's and women's clothing, focusing on the concepts of covering, modesty, and avoiding extravagance or immodesty. Shariah standards discourage practices such as wearing tight, transparent, or ostentatious clothing. Similarly, imitation of other cultures or genders in dress is considered impermissible. The paper further discusses the Islamic criteria for clothing, which include covering the ‘awrah, maintaining dignity, and aligning with cultural and environmental contexts without compromising Islamic principles. For women, specific guidelines ensure comprehensive covering to safeguard against potential harm or immodesty. The conclusion highlights that Islamic clothing transcends mere cultural practices and embodies a collective identity rooted in faith, modesty, and morality.