What should the Hijab for Muslim women cover?

The concept of Hijab in Islam for women encompasses several guidelines regarding modesty and covering. The Qur'an emphasizes the need for women to dress modestly and to draw their veils over their bosoms. In Surah An-Noor, it states: And tell the believing women to lower their gaze and be modest, and to display of their adornment only that which is apparent, and to draw their veils over their bosoms 24:31. This verse indicates that women should cover their adornments and specifically their bosoms.

Ibn Kathir explains that this command aims to distinguish believing women from the practices of women during the Jahiliyyah (pre-Islamic period) who did not dress modestly. The purpose of wearing the Hijab is to protect women and to maintain their dignity in society.

In addition, Surah Al-Ahzaab further instructs: O Prophet! Tell thy wives and thy daughters and the women of the believers to draw their cloaks close round them (when they go abroad). That will be better, so that they may be recognised and not annoyed 33:59. This verse highlights the importance of wearing outer garments in public to ensure that women are recognized and protected from harassment.

Aisha, the wife of the Prophet Muhammad ﷺ, also described the practical application of Hijab. She said: "'Aisha used to say: When (the Verse): 'They should draw their veils over their necks and bosoms,' was revealed, (the ladies) cut their waist sheets at the edges and covered their faces with the cut pieces Sahih al-Bukhari 60:282. This illustrates how women adapted their clothing to comply with the divine instructions on modesty.

Overall, the Hijab should cover the body, particularly the hair, neck, and bosom, and should be worn in a way that reflects modesty and dignity, aligning with the guidance provided in the Qur'an and the practices of early Muslim women.