The Prophet (ﷺ) said Allah will not look, on the Day of Resurrection at the person who drags his garment (behind him) out of conceit. On that Abu Bakr said, "O Allah's Messenger (ﷺ)! One side of my Izar hangs low if I do not take care of it." The Prophet (ﷺ) said, 'You are not one of those who do that out of conceit."
Hadith Commentary: The Prohibition of Dragging Garments
This narration from Sahih al-Bukhari (5784) addresses the grave matter of isbāl - the practice of letting one's garment extend below the ankles. The divine threat mentioned indicates the severity of this action when done with arrogance.
Scholarly Analysis of the Prohibition
The scholars distinguish between two types of isbāl: that which stems from arrogance (kibr) and that which occurs without such intention. The former constitutes major sin, while the latter remains disliked (makrūh).
Abu Bakr's inquiry demonstrates the companions' meticulousness in implementing prophetic guidance. His concern about his izar (lower garment) occasionally slipping reveals how seriously they took even potential violations.
The Prophet's Clarification
The Prophet's response to Abu Bakr absolves him from the threatened punishment, establishing that unintentional lengthening does not incur the same severe consequence as deliberate dragging born of pride.
This distinction protects the ummah from undue hardship while maintaining the prohibition's spiritual purpose: to combat arrogance and promote humility in dress and conduct.
Practical Implementation
Classical scholars determined the proper length for men's garments as reaching no lower than the ankles. This ruling applies specifically to prayer garments and daily wear.
The hadith teaches that while external actions matter, internal states determine their spiritual value. A believer must therefore monitor both their appearance and intentions.