By Leonor Rivera


A turban is simply a long and slender fabric used to cover the head. It is worn by wrapping it around the head and held on by its own tension, gravity or by using a chinstrap to ensure it remains upright. The quality of the resulting turban depends on the material used. The common materials include fine muslin, silk, cotton and synthetics. Middle Eastern turbans are mainly worn for cultural, religious and customary purposes.

Individuals have familiarized themselves with different methods of tying a turban. The selection process is influenced by the type of event taking place. When attending burials and other sad functions, dull or plain fabrics are appropriate. On the other hand, celebratory moments require bright colored fabrics that correspond to the mood present. Weddings in particular require decorated fabrics that are attractive in color.

The inhabitants of the Middle East mainly wear two types of wraps namely Keffiyeh and Amamah. These fabrics can be used for the same purpose but are usually made of different materials are wrapped in different ways. Most people use them to protect their heads against the heat emitted by the sun.

Women on the hand wear a turban hijab. This is seen as an alternative to the turban that men wear. It is mostly worn during happy functions such as parties and weddings. It may also by non-Muslims to cover their head as result of a hair loss. According to Islam women must cover their heads in public areas.

These fabrics serve as shawls to disguise or mask the face. Unwrapped fabrics warm the shoulders during cold weather. It may also be wrapped around the face to provide protection in dusty and windy environments. Middle Eastern people occupying the desert use them for protection purposes from dust. The nomadic tribes use them to disguise themselves.

Travellers in desert face a lot of challenges. To get rest in the course of their journey they modify these fabrics into makeshift pillows. Some people use them to carry bundles, lower containers in wells to fetch water and filter drinking water. It was an effective traditional weapon that was used to strangle any adversary.

There is a common belief in Islam that Prophet Muhammad wrapped black or white turbans. Muslim men all over the world have adopted this way of dressing to emulate their leader and to adhere to the rules contained in the Quran concerning the same. They strive to learn all the tying techniques available. It is a modest way of dressing that portrays devotion, manhood and self-respect. These are some of the qualities that are emphasized in this society.

Middle Eastern turbans have been in existent for a long period of time. They are designed in numerous colors and designs and worn to signify the different social rankings in the society. Scholars and leaders mainly wear those that are white in color. Those believed to be form the lineage of Prophet Muhammad wear black ones. Those in Egypt, Libya and Sudan mainly wear white ones.




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