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 piece of clothing is also an indication of a person's status, rank and profession. In some regions, members of the society's upper class wear turbans to denote social status. Religious scholars and other well-educated men commonly wear white turbans, too. No matter what one's purpose may be, the headdress has to be worn in good order.

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 wrapping technique is used by many Muslim religious scholars. They wrap the cloth around a small cap instead of directly winding them around the head. The cap is oftentimes of a different color from the turban itself. The caps are used for practical purposes. This ensures that no strand of hair goes astray prior to wrapping it, making it easier to wear the turbans. Nonetheless, it does not change the directions for tying the cloth.

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.

The Arab women may also wear turbans. This is an alternative of the traditional Islamic scarves that have been banned to be worn by women in government-funded institutions, universities and public schools. With its distinct significance, the cloth is normally stylish, bright 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 religions that require their followers to keep their hair uncut. According to their norms, this is a way to show how much they respect the creator. Turbans are common among their members to keep the hair neat. They use the headdress all the time to show their humbleness before the God they believe in. Also, some religions require head gears when visiting the church or attending 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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