While we were with `Utba. `Umar wrote to us: The Prophet (ﷺ) said, "There is none who wears silk in this world except that he will wear nothing of it in the Hereafter." ' Abu `Uthman pointed out with his middle and index fingers.
This hadith has also been narrated by Abu `Uthman.
Hadith Text & Context
While we were with 'Utba. 'Umar wrote to us: The Prophet (ﷺ) said, "There is none who wears silk in this world except that he will wear nothing of it in the Hereafter." ' Abu 'Uthman pointed out with his middle and index fingers.
This hadith has been narrated by Abu 'Uthman and recorded in Sahih al-Bukhari, Book of Dress, Hadith 5830.
Prohibition of Silk for Men
This hadith establishes the prohibition of silk garments for Muslim men in this worldly life. The scholars unanimously agree that wearing pure silk is forbidden (haram) for males, while permissible for females.
The gesture of Abu 'Uthman with his fingers indicates the small amount of silk that would disqualify one from wearing it in Paradise - meaning even a small portion of silk worn unlawfully has consequences.
Spiritual Consequences
The severe warning indicates that unlawful enjoyment of silk in this world deprives one of its lawful enjoyment in the Hereafter. Paradise contains silken garments as reward for the righteous, but those who wore it unlawfully will be barred from this blessing.
This demonstrates the principle of divine justice - what is taken unlawfully in this world is subtracted from one's share in the Next World.
Scholarly Exceptions
Scholars mention exceptions to this prohibition: medical necessity (as confirmed by trustworthy physicians), silk mixed with other fabrics where silk is not dominant, and military necessity in battle. However, these exceptions have specific conditions and limitations.
The general ruling remains that Muslim men must avoid silk garments to preserve their faith and ensure their reward in the Hereafter remains complete and undiminished.