Definition of awrah
In Islam, the term awrah refers to the parts of the body that must be covered for modesty and respect, both during prayer and otherwise. Properly covering the awrah is an important part of Islamic dress code.
The consensus: between navel and knee
According to the majority of Islamic scholars and schools of thought, a man's ʿawrah is the area between the navel and the knee . This means that this part of the body must always be covered, both during and outside prayer. The navel and the knee itself are not considered part of the ʿawrah by most scholars.
Traditions from the Sunnah
The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) said:
“Cover your thigh, for the thigh is part of the ʿawrah.”
(Abu Dawood and Tirmidhi – authenticated by al-Albani)
This and similar traditions demonstrate that the thighs are part of the ʿawrah. Other hadith that mention the Prophet ﷺ partially uncovering his thigh are considered by scholars to be exceptions or specific situations, not general rules.
Is the navel ʿawrah?
According to the majority of fuqaha' (Hanafi, Shafi'i, Hanbali), the navel itself is not part of the ʿawrah. However, the area below and around the navel —up to the knees—must be covered. Therefore, exposing the navel is not problematic as long as the area below it remains covered.
Are the knees ʿawrah?
There is a slight difference of opinion about this:
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Hanafi: The knees are part of the ʿawrah.
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Maliki, Shafi'i and Hanbali: The knees are not part of the ʿawrah.
However, the general consensus remains that the area between the navel and the knee should be covered.
Differences of opinion per madhhab
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Hanafi: from navel to knee (both included).
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Maliki: from navel to knee (excluding navel and knee according to most).
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Shafi'i: from below the navel to the knee (excluding both).
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Hanbali: from below the navel to the knee.
Practical situations
Properly covering the ʿawrah is important not only during prayer, but also in everyday life—for example, when playing sports, swimming, or doing other activities. Clothing that doesn't completely cover the area between the navel and the knee is not Islamic.
Conclusion
A man's ʿawrah is the area between the navel and the knee . According to the majority, the navel and knee themselves are not part of this, but the thighs and the area between them must always be covered. By respecting this, you demonstrate obedience to the Islamic values of modesty.