The Messenger of Allah (ﷺ) as saying: If anyone trails his garment arrogantly, Allah will not look at him on the Day of Resurrection. Then Abu Bakr said: One of the sides of my lower garment trails, but still I remain careful about it. He said: You are not one of those who do so conceitedly.
Hadith Text - Sunan Abi Dawud 4085
The Messenger of Allah (ﷺ) as saying: If anyone trails his garment arrogantly, Allah will not look at him on the Day of Resurrection. Then Abu Bakr said: One of the sides of my lower garment trails, but still I remain careful about it. He said: You are not one of those who do so conceitedly.
Context and Occasion
This hadith from the Book of Clothing (Kitab Al-Libas) addresses the prohibition of isbal - allowing one's garment to extend below the ankles. The Prophet's warning specifically targets those who do so with arrogance and pride.
Abu Bakr's immediate concern demonstrates the companions' meticulous adherence to Prophetic guidance, even when their actions might appear similar to the prohibited act externally.
Scholarly Commentary
The scholars distinguish between two types of isbal: that which is done out of arrogance (kibr) and that which occurs without such intention. The former constitutes major sin, while the latter remains disliked (makruh).
Imam Nawawi explains that Allah's "not looking" means He will not bestow His mercy upon such a person, leaving them to face judgment without divine compassion.
Ibn Hajar al-Asqalani notes that Abu Bakr's situation demonstrates that unintentional trailing does not fall under this severe warning, as the Prophet immediately absolved him when he expressed concern.
Legal Rulings and Applications
The majority of scholars hold that isbal out of arrogance is strictly prohibited (haram) for both men and women, while isbal without arrogance is prohibited for men but permissible for women.
The proper length for men's garments is at or above the ankles, as this prevents both arrogance and imitation of women's dress.
This ruling applies to all lower garments including thobes, pants, and any clothing that covers the lower body.
Spiritual Dimensions
The hadith emphasizes Islam's concern with both outward appearance and inward intention. External actions reflect internal states, and arrogance manifests physically through such displays.
Abu Bakr's example teaches us the importance of seeking clarification when in doubt about religious matters, and the value of having a pure intention in all actions.