What is a taqiyah and when do Muslim men wear one?
It depends on the person and the place. A taqiyah is a small, close-fitting cap worn by many Muslim men, especially for prayer, on Fridays and at Eid. It has other names in different regions, such as kufi, topi, songkok and peci. Wearing one is optional: it is a custom, or a recommended habit for some, but never an obligation.
What it is and what it is called
A taqiyah is a small round or domed cap, usually knitted, cotton or embroidered, in white or colours. The name changes with the region:
- Taqiyah: the Arabic term, used widely.
- Kufi: common in West Africa and in the USA and UK.
- Topi or namaz topi: in South Asia, including woven or embroidered styles.
- Songkok, peci and kopiah: in Southeast Asia, often in black and sometimes stiffer in shape.
The cap's name sounds like the Arabic word taqiyya, which is a different word with a different meaning.
When Muslim men wear one
- In prayer, especially at the mosque.
- On Fridays for Jumu'ah.
- At Eid and weddings, often with a nice outfit.
- In Quran classes and at gatherings of remembrance.
- During Ramadan and taraweeh.
- Daily, for those who like to cover their head all the time.
Many mosques keep a basket of spare caps at the entrance, so you do not need to bring your own.
Is it a sunnah?
The Prophet ﷺ usually covered his head. For example, he entered Makkah on the day of its conquest wearing a black turban (Sahih Muslim 1358). Because of this, many scholars see covering the head, especially in prayer, as recommended. Others regard it as a local custom. Allah tells us to dress well for worship:
All four schools agree that a man's prayer is valid without a head covering, and the head is not part of a man's awrah. See Do Muslim men have to cover their heads?
Practical tips
- Pick a comfortable fit. It should stay on without squeezing.
- Choose a style that suits you. A knitted kufi is the easiest and cheapest to start with.
- A brimmed baseball cap can get in the way of prostration, so take it off or turn it round.
- No pressure. You are not less Muslim without one, and no one is more devout because of one.
- At work or in public, wearing one is your own choice. Think about your comfort and safety.
It pairs well with other traditional clothes, but also goes with jeans and a shirt. See What is the difference between a thobe, jubba and kurta? For special days, see What should I wear on Eid as a Muslim?
- A taqiyah is a small prayer cap, also called kufi, topi, songkok or peci.
- Men wear it for prayer, Fridays, Eid and daily life.
- It is optional; the prayer is valid with a bare head.
- Choose a comfortable fit and avoid brims that block prostration.
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