Understanding The Significance Of Arabic Turban

By Corinne Daniel


People wear turbans for many different reasons. Some wear it for functional purposes while others for cultural reasons. The headdresses are used to protect the hair from the heat of the sun, dust and strong wind. Still others use it because of religious significance. The Arabic turban is primarily used to emulate Mohammed who is believed to wear green, white and black turbans as described by the scriptures.

This can also be used to denote a person's profession, rank and status. Religious scholars and well-educated people wear white turbans. Depending on the region, a turban is also worn by members of the higher class to indicate their social status. Regardless of its purpose, the headdress must be worn properly.

A turban consists of a long piece of cloth. This is wound around a person's head. The length, style and color of the cloth may vary depending on the culture, purpose and area of its wearer. The covering has to be wound anew every time it is worn. Through the years, offshoots from the traditional methods emerged, introducing new ways of wearing the gear.

One popular technique is used by most Muslim religious scholars. The cloth is wrapped around a small cap rather than winding it directly around the head. This technique is used mostly for its practical use. This ensures that the strands of hair remain intact so it becomes easier to wear the turban. Notwithstanding, the directions of tying the cloth remains the same. The cloth may be of different color from the cap.

Then there are military turbans among the generals and warriors in the history. This can covertly conceal the metal spiked helmets that the soldiers wear. More importantly, this signifies the status of high-ranking officials in the military. However, this is no longer as popular as it used to be. In fact, it may have died out some time ago.

Arab women may also be seen wearing turbans. This fad started when wearing of religious headscarf has been banned among women in public schools, government-funded institutions and universities. This is an alternate to the traditional Islamic scarf that is allowed. Most often, these turbans are bright, stylish and colorful.

Yet, the most familiar method of wrapping is plainly winding it around the head. The cloth is draped around the head, a few inches below the neck. Using the right hand, wind the cloth on a horizontal plane. Make sure that the head gear hold the hair together so it does not fall off. Tuck the end of the cloth to secure it.

There are a few religions requiring the believers not to cut their hair. This is their way of showing their creator their respect. Followers of this religion normally wear turban in order to keep the hair neat. For some, this is also an expression of humbleness before their God. Some religions may only require their believers to use headdress inside the place of worship or during religious ceremonies.

In conclusion, it is of utmost importance to clear some misconceptions revolving around Arabic turban. This is a noble head gear and should not be associated with acts of terrorism. It is a shame that some has become a victim of hatred only because they wear turbans. Furthermore, merely wearing a headdress does not show someone's affinity to a certain cultural and religious group.




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