Turban Colors And Religious Significance

By Mara Boone


Turbans are worn by individuals of various cultural groups throughout the world, including Muslims, Hindus and Sikhs. Although sometimes constructed and formed into a permanent shape, they are typically very long strips of fabric which are intricately tied onto the top of one's head. Styles can range from very small and simple to incredibly ornate. The type of fabric used can vary, but silk and cotton are the most common. Turban colors vary and can range from basic black or white to very bright red, blue or yellow and any color in between. Patterned material can be used as well. When wearing a turban for a religious reason, colors typically do not matter, but can sometimes be used to symbolize particular days of religious observance or special events.

The modern word turban is thought to have come from the Persian word dulband. Ancient Persia is modern day Iran, and Iranian leaders still wear black or white turbans today.

The people of the Sikh Khalsa group use orange or navy blue on days of special religious observance as well as important commemorative events. On the day of one's wedding or engagement, a pink or red turban is worn. White is often worn by Eastern Sikhs at funerals, while Western Sikhs often wear white on a daily basis. When attending a black-tie event, black or navy blue is often worn.

Hindus generally do not wear turbans on a daily basis, but reserve them for special occasions only. At weddings a bright color is often chosen, such as red or orange. Turbans in India can also reflect one's wealth and social standing by size and ornateness. Very wealthy men may wear a very large, brightly colored turban, highly decorated with gold and jewels.

Certain traditionalist sects of Islam wear turbans, but many Muslims consider them out-dated. White is the holiest color in Islam, and the prophet Muhammad is thought to have worn a white turban. Modern day Sunnis also typically wear white. Shiites wear black or white, with black being reserved only to men who are direct descendants of Muhammad. Different shades of blue are used in North Africa to identify different tribes. Green is another popular color in Islam, symbolic of paradise.

Turbans are not worn by Palestinians or other Arab communities in and around the Persian Gulf. The traditional head covering, called a keffiyeh, is often a black checked pattern and is tied with a black cord called an ekal. Black and white is worn in Palestine, while Black and red is worn in Jordan. Instead of being tied like a turban, a keffiyeh is a rectangular piece of fabric simply draped over the top of the head.

Many nomadic and desert people wear turbans for the practical purpose of keeping sand out of their eyes and faces. In this case, the fabric is loosely wrapped around the entire head and neck. Some will also choose to disguise themselves in this way. While color is irrelevant, light colors are favored as they deflect sunlight and heat. Light blue is a favorite as it represents cool water, as desert commodity.

Sometimes turbans are worn for fashion alone. They are a popular choice by Western women at the beach. Turban colors are unlimited.




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