Thawbs (thobes or tobes) are an everyday attire among Muslim men. Women also wear long robes aligned with femininity. Many people ask: Are thobes sunnah? If yes, can non-muslims wear a thobe?
Thawbs are native to Middle Eastern and North African nations. They come in a variety of patterns and colours. These ankle-length robes are usually loose-fitting. They are linked to modesty and humility. Such dresses have come to represent Islamic culture. But are thobes sunnah?
What is Sunnah in Islam?
Sunnah is the precepts and customs of the Prophet Mohammadﷺ. All actions, words and endorsements he took as well as criticism were recorded. For Muslims living an ethical lifestyle Quran and Sunnah provide invaluable guidance in living an upright and moral lifestyle.
Pair your thawb with a Yemeni shemagh.
History of Thawbs
Despite their intimate association with Islamic culture, thobes are not explicitly mentioned in the Quran or Hadith. Instead, their ancestors may be found in the clothes that the Arabian Peninsula's residents wore before the arrival of Islam.
It is said that the Prophet Muhammadﷺ himself wore similar clothes, demonstrating the ease of wear and practicality of the clothes typical of the people in that area.
Study the differences between keffiyeh and shemagh scarves.
Islamic Traditional Thobes
Despite not being explicitly referenced in Islamic scripture, all types of thawbs, such as Moroccan thobes, have been widely accepted by Muslim communities around the globe.
Many academics see wearing loose-fitting, modest clothes, like thobes, as in line with Islamic values of humility and modesty. The garment's simplicity aligns with the Prophet's teachings on moderation and abstaining from extravagant clothing.
Can Non-Muslims Wear a Thobe?
Yes, everyone can wear a thawb.
However, please be mindful to respect all religious and cultural teachings. Otherwise, you might hurt someone’s feelings.
Beyond its religious importance, thobes have cultural significance in many Middle Eastern and North African nations. They are frequently worn at essential events like weddings, religious rituals, and festivals.
Consequently, non-Muslims who decide to wear thobes have to do so with consideration for the cultural customs connected to the article of clothing.
Read: What is the difference between a thobe and dishdasha?
Is Bisht Sunnah?
The bisht (Arabic: بِشْت) is a traditional cloak for men. They wear it in the Arab, particularly on special occasions like weddings, religious holidays, and formal events.
The bisht is not explicitly mentioned in Islamic texts as a Sunnah garment. But, its use is deeply rooted in Arab culture and Islamic tradition.
It is reported that the Prophet Mohammad ﷺ used to wear a cloak. There are narrations that indicates that he ﷺ sometimes wore it inside out.
Some scholars interpret this as an endorsement of wearing cloaks in certain contexts. Though, the specific garment and style may differ from the modern bisht.
Nowadays, the bisht is often worn by religious clergy, dignitaries, and during significant events. It symbolises honor, prestige, and respect. Its association with modesty and cultural identity makes it a reputable attire in many Muslim communities.
Therefore, while the bisht is not a prescribed Sunnah garment, its use aligns with Islamic values of modesty and cultural expression.
Read: Why do Islamic men wear thobes?
The Bottom Line
So, are thobes sunnah?
Considering the narrations and authentic Islamic teachings, wearing a thawb along with a shemagh scarf may be believed to be a sunnah. However, the main emphasis is on dressing modestly for both men and women. Muslims frequently don Emirati thobes as a sign of humility and modesty, keeping with the Prophet Muhammad's teachings. When non-Muslims decide to wear thobes, they should do it with deference and understanding of the garment's cultural importance. Encouraging harmony and understanding in multicultural society requires accepting variety and honouring cultural customs. Shop the best, authentic thawbs from Al-Haq Thobes UK now!