While we were with `Utba bin Farqad at Adharbijan, there came `Umar's letter indicating that Allah's Apostle had forbidden the use of silk except this much, then he pointed with his index and middle fingers. To our knowledge, by that he meant embroidery.
Hadith Commentary - Sahih al-Bukhari 5828
This narration from the Book of Dress in Sahih al-Bukhari concerns the prohibition of silk for men in Islamic law. The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) forbade men from wearing pure silk, except for a small amount equivalent to the width of two fingers, which scholars interpret as referring to embroidery or decorative trimming.
Prohibition and Its Wisdom
The complete prohibition of silk for men serves multiple purposes: it distinguishes Muslim men from women in dress, prevents extravagance and vanity, and encourages humility before Allah. Silk was considered a luxury fabric that could lead to arrogance and worldly attachment.
The exception of "two fingers' width" demonstrates the principle of easing hardship in Islamic law, allowing for necessary decorative elements while maintaining the essence of the prohibition.
Scholarly Interpretation
Classical scholars like Imam an-Nawawi explained that this exception applies to embroidery on garments, collars, or borders. The prohibition remains for garments made entirely of silk or containing substantial silk content.
This ruling applies specifically to men, as women are permitted to wear silk according to scholarly consensus, reflecting the complementary nature of Islamic dress regulations.
Contemporary Application
Modern scholars apply this ruling to all silk-like fabrics that share the luxurious qualities of natural silk. The essential principle remains avoiding garments that convey extravagance and vanity for Muslim men.
The transmission of this ruling through official channels (Umar's letter to provincial governors) demonstrates how Islamic teachings were systematically implemented throughout the Muslim community.