Awrah

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Awrah (Arabic: عورة) is a term used within Islam which denotes the parts of the body that are not meant to be exposed in public. This concept is, therefore, linked with sartorial hijab. The exact definition varies between different schools of Islamic thought.

[edit] Definition

In some interpretations, the awrah of a man is from navel to knees, and that of a female is everything except face and hands.^{[citation needed]}. In more liberal interpretations though, the female's awrah comes specifically to the bosoms and genital areas, thighs, back and neck, in other words, parts that could cause arousal in men. Salafi muslims believe that the face and hands of a muslim women is also her awrah and should be covered, in front of Ghayr Mahram (unrelated by family ties) men. In front of other males, a male needs to cover from the navel to the knees. In front of other females, females are permitted to show face, hands, feet and that which there is a need to uncover, i.e. hair or knees. But nothing that is not necessary to uncover should be uncovered. This means both males and females should not uncover their private parts at any time to those of the same sex. At all times must men and women be wearing garments that are loose and the material is not transparent as to see the skin colour and shape of the other (male or female). However, it is permissible for husband and wife to show their awrah to the other as this is part of the contract of marriage.

[edit] Quotes

Quotes relating to the concept of awrah

"O Prophet! Tell thy wives and daughters, and the believing women, that they should cast their outer garments over their persons (when abroad): that is most convenient, that they should be known (as such) and not molested. And Allah is Oft-Forgiving, Most Merciful." -Al-Ahzab:59 (Qur'an)