Revealing Awra

The passage on awra, or covering up, was particularly thought provoking for me. It touched on the various interpretations of awra for a woman. A popular definition says that everything should be covered other than what is absolutely necessary to conceal. I see Muslims who cover up (to various extents) everyday, yet after the reading I realized I did not truly comprehend this custom. I understood awra to be a sign of respect to Allah and the body as well as a form of unity within the Islam religion. The reading does touch on this idea of unity: “That will make them recognizable and they will not be exposed to harm” (205). However, this second idea of “not be(ing) exposed to harm” was new to me. I had never considered the practice as a means of safety but upon consideration it makes sense. Religion seeks to protect its people and provide solace for them in a big, confusing world.

The section in the reading on feminist discusses modern female followers wanting this solace and protection in the same manner in which men receive it. In the past, the Qur’an has been understood primarily from a male perspective. Men have had more power, authority, and a different set of rules. For instance, men do not have the same rules of awra, since they are not thought to need the same sort of shelter as women. Asma Barlas, a proponent of gender neutrality in the Qur’an, writes: “It is necessary to avoid ‘masculinizing’ God, and that it is the right of every Muslim to read and interpret the Qur’an for themselves” (213). She emphasizes women are just regular supporters of Islam. Regardless of gender, each person will have his or her own individual interpretations of the text.

I think this personal connection to religion is important. I have Muslim friends who make the conscious effort to cover up their skin, so this choice should be respected. However, it should be a choice. Woman should have the ability to dress as they please.