Hadith Text & Reference

Allah's Messenger (ﷺ) said, "Whoever drags his clothes (on the ground) out of pride and arrogance, Allah will not look at him on the Day of Resurrection."

Source: Sahih al-Bukhari 5791 (Book: Dress)

Meaning & Context

This hadith addresses the grave sin of pride (kibr) manifested through dragging one's garment. The Prophet (ﷺ) specifically condemns this act when done out of arrogance, as it reflects an attitude of superiority and self-importance.

Scholars explain that dragging garments was a practice of the pre-Islamic Arabs and certain arrogant rulers who sought to display their status. Islam came to eliminate such ostentatious displays and promote humility.

Scholarly Commentary

Imam al-Nawawi states that this prohibition applies specifically when the dragging is done out of pride. If done without arrogance (due to carelessness or other reasons), it is disliked but not to the same degree.

Ibn Hajar al-Asqalani explains that "Allah will not look at him" means Allah will not bestow His mercy upon such a person, nor will He regard them with favor on Judgment Day - one of the most severe punishments.

The scholars differentiate between men and women regarding garment length. For men, garments should not extend beyond the ankles, while women are permitted longer garments for modesty purposes.

Spiritual Implications

This hadith teaches that outward actions reflect inward states. Dragging clothes becomes sinful when it stems from arrogance in the heart.

The severe warning emphasizes how seriously Islam takes the sin of pride, which was the first sin committed by Iblis (Satan) when he refused to prostrate to Adam.

Muslims are reminded to cultivate humility in all aspects of life, including dress, as humility is beloved to Allah while arrogance leads to divine displeasure.