Hadith Text

"I heard Ibn Az-Zubair delivering a sermon, saying, 'Muhammad said, "Whoever wears silk in this world, shall not wear it in the Hereafter."'"

Source Reference

Book: Dress

Author: Sahih al-Bukhari

Hadith: Sahih al-Bukhari 5833

Scholarly Commentary

This hadith establishes the prohibition of silk garments for men in Islam. The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) conveyed this divine prohibition to distinguish the Muslim community and prevent imitation of non-Muslim practices.

The scholars of jurisprudence have unanimously agreed that wearing pure silk is forbidden (haram) for Muslim males, while permissible for females. This ruling is based on multiple authentic narrations including this one.

The wisdom behind this prohibition includes: cultivating humility, avoiding extravagance, maintaining distinction from other nations, and preventing the softening of men's hearts which might diminish their courage and resolve.

The consequence mentioned - deprivation of silk in Paradise - serves as a severe warning emphasizing the gravity of this prohibition. Paradise contains superior silks and delights, and those who abstain from unlawful silk in this world will be rewarded with permissible, superior silks in the Hereafter.

Exceptions to this ruling include: medical necessity (as confirmed by trustworthy physicians), silk mixed with other fabrics where silk is not dominant, and military insignia or battle requirements.

Legal Rulings

• For men: Wearing pure silk is strictly prohibited (haram)

• For women: Wearing silk is permissible (halal) and encouraged for beautification

• Mixed fabrics: Permissible if silk constitutes less than 50% of the material

• Medical use: Permissible when certified by a reliable Muslim physician