The Importance And Use Of Arabic Turban

By Corinne Daniel


There are various reasons for wearing turbans. Some people wear it for cultural purposes while others for its functionality. Headdresses can be used in protecting the hair from dust, strong wind and extreme heat from the sun. Still others use Arabic turban for its religious significance. Muslims wear this head gear to emulate Mohammed who was described by the scriptures to be wearing white, black and green turbans.

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 long piece of cloth, the turban is wrapped around atop one's head. The style, color and length of the cloth may vary depending on his purpose, region or the culture he observes. The coverings must be wound anew every time they are worn. Over the years, offshoots of the traditional methods were introduced. New ways of wearing the head gear have been developed.

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.

There is also a military turban historically worn by warriors and generals. They wear the headdress around their spiked metal helmets. The head gear is mainly used to portray status of high-ranking military officials. This is also a clever way of concealing the defensive metal helmet worn by the warriors. At present, however, it is no longer used commonly and may have died out.

Arab women are also known to be wearing turbans. This started after the use of religious headscarf in women was banned in universities, public schools and government-funded institutions. This is a permissible alternate for the traditional scarves. Oftentimes, these cloths are colorful, bright and stylish.

Yet, perhaps the most well-known method by far is simply winding the cloth around the head. The wearer drapes the turban around his head, about eight inches below the neck. With his right hand, he winds the cloth following a horizontal plane. The end is tucked securely to keep the cloth from falling off even when doing physically strenuous activities.

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.

Lastly, it is imperative that misconceptions involving Arabic turban are straightened out. It is unfortunate that such a noble head gear is associated with grim acts of terrorism. Some people have become victims of unfair and erroneous beliefs. Not just because someone wears a turban that makes him a member of certain religious or cultural groups.




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