Covering Hair
On what principled basis is hair classified as ‘hidden adornment’ while the face is considered ‘apparent’? If the criterion is attraction, then the face is equally—if not more—attractive and should also be covered. And if the criterion is what is normally visible, then hair too has historically and culturally been visible. So this distinction appears arbitrary. Is this division actually derived from the Qur’an, or is it being assumed first and then imposed onto the text?”
verse 24:31 states that if there is adornment, a woman should cover it except what usually stays exposed. This “usually stays exposed” obviously includes face and hands. Ibn Abbas interpreted it this way. So the face can stay uncovered with its makeup and with jewelry. The head is not a private part, nor is it zeenat; there is no directive about it. Its covering is a cultural norm.