Hijab and Modesty in Christianity, Judaism, and Islam


Hijab and modest dress have been central to the cultural and religious traditions of all three Abrahamic faiths — Judaism, Christianity, and Islam. While the style, extent, and enforcement of these practices differ, their core philosophy remains similar: preserving modesty, preventing lustful gazes, and expressing religious identity and commitment.


1. Modesty and Head Covering in Judaism


In traditional Judaism, especially among Orthodox communities, married women are expected to cover their hair. This may be done with a scarf, shawl, or even a wig known as a sheitel. This rule comes from the Talmud and interpretations of the Torah, emphasizing the concept of Tzniut — modesty and decency in dress and behavior.

Clothing should be simple and non-provocative. Orthodox Jewish men also wear head coverings such as the kippah or hats, along with long garments, as a sign of respect for God.


2. Veiling and Modesty in Christianity


In the New Testament, specifically in the letters of Paul the Apostle, women are advised to cover their heads during prayer (“Every woman who prays or prophesies with her head uncovered dishonors her head” – 1 Corinthians 11:5).

In early Christianity, women almost always appeared in public with their heads covered. Nuns today still wear full veils and long robes, reminiscent of early Christian women’s attire.

Over time, especially in Western cultures, this practice faded in most Christian denominations, except in more traditional churches like Eastern Orthodoxy, where head coverings are still observed during worship.


3. Hijab in Islam


In Islam, hijab is explicitly mentioned in the Qur’an (“...and to draw their veils over their bosoms” – Surah An-Nur 24:31) and includes covering the hair, neck, and entire body except for the face and hands (according to the most common scholarly opinion).

The purpose, much like in Judaism and Christianity, is to safeguard modesty and prevent inappropriate attention. However, in Islam, the obligation is more comprehensive and continuous, applying to women in all public spaces and in the presence of non-mahram men.

Men are also instructed to dress modestly, covering from the navel to the knees and avoiding revealing or tight clothing.


4. Similarities Across the Three Religions


Shared roots: All three traditions descend from the prophets of the Children of Israel and uphold the value of modesty.


Hair covering for women: Historically encouraged or mandated in all three faiths.


Avoiding ostentation: Clothing should be modest and avoid attracting undue attention.


Connection to worship: Proper dress is especially important during prayer and in sacred spaces.


5. Key Differences


Scope of obligation: Islam maintains a year-round, universal dress code; in Orthodox Judaism, the practice is emphasized after marriage; in traditional Christianity, it is linked mainly to times of worship.


Styles of covering: Islam — hijab, abaya, or chador; Judaism — scarves or wigs; Christianity — veils, mantillas, or headscarves during church services.


Gender rules: Islam and Judaism also prescribe modesty guidelines for men, while in Christianity, male dress codes are less formalized.


6. Why Has Religious Covering Declined in Many Societies?


Modernization: From the 19th century onward, urbanization and the rise of the fashion industry made clothing a form of personal expression and style.


Feminism and individual rights: Some feminist movements viewed traditional veiling as a restriction on women’s freedom.


Secularism: The separation of religion from public life reduced the influence of religious dress codes in law and culture.


Media and consumer culture: Film, advertising, and social media promoted beauty standards often at odds with traditional modesty.


New interpretations of scripture: Some religious scholars redefined modesty as more about behavior and attitude rather than strict physical covering.


7. Conclusion

Hijab and modest dress in Christianity, Judaism, and Islam share a common foundation in the principles of modesty, dignity, and reverence for God. The variations lie in the extent, style, and enforcement of these rules. The decline in religious covering in many modern societies is largely the result of cultural, social, and political changes rather than purely theological shifts.

Still, in devout communities, modest dress remains a powerful expression of faith, identity, and cultural heritage.