HISTORY OF THE THOBE

Historical Context and Evolution of Middle Eastern Attire

Thobes in Contemporary Society

Understanding the Thobe

Names and Regional Variations

  • Thobe, Thuab, Thawb: Mainly used in Saudi Arabia and the Gulf States.
  • Jubbah, Jebba, Jubba: Common in Tunisia.
  • Dishdasha: Used in Saudi Arabia, Jordan, Palestine, and Lebanon.
  • Jalabiyya, Jebba, Djellaba: Used in the Gulf and North Africa.
  • Kandura: Used in Saudi Arabia, Jordan, Palestine, and Lebanon.
  • Thoab Kaftan
  • Futa: Found in Yemen.

Reasons for Wearing a Thobe

  • To Cover the Body: Thobes fulfill the primary purpose of dressing, which is to cover parts of the body that Islamic legislation deems necessary to cover.
  • To Protect from Harm: Thobes protect from the sun and UV exposure, adapting to the weather and fulfilling the health needs of the wearer. The head covering and long Thobe help prevent heat stroke and sunburn.
  • To Beautify Oneself: Dressing in a Thobe is a way to look one's best, which is a form of gratitude for the blessings bestowed upon us.
  • To Dress Traditionally: Thobes are deeply rooted in the cultural history of the Middle East, shared by Judaism, Christianity, and Islam. They resemble the attire worn by Christian priests during religious ceremonies and by people in Biblical and Ancient Jewish times.
  • As a Sign of Piety and Morality: Thobes symbolize religious devotion, piety, and moral values, reinforcing the wearer's pride and identity. Despite European cultural influences, Islamic culture has remained resilient, and traditional dress has largely been preserved.

Thobes in the Western World

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