Hadith Text & Context

From Sahih al-Bukhari, Book of Dress, Hadith 5937: "Allah's Messenger (ﷺ) said, 'Allah has cursed such a lady as lengthens (her or someone else's) hair artificially or gets it lengthened, and also a lady who tattoos (herself or someone else) or gets herself tattooed.'"

This prohibition addresses practices common in pre-Islamic ignorance (Jahiliyyah) involving deception in appearance and altering Allah's creation.

Meaning of the Curse

The curse (la'nah) signifies being distanced from Allah's mercy. This severe warning indicates the gravity of these acts as they involve deception and fundamental alteration of Allah's creation.

Artificial Hair Lengthening

Scholars explain this includes attaching false hair (wigs, extensions) or any method that deceptively makes hair appear longer. The prohibition applies to both the one who performs it and the one who requests it, as both participate in the sinful act.

Tattooing Prohibition

Tattooing involves permanently altering the skin Allah created. Classical scholars consider this haram as it changes Allah's creation without necessity and was associated with pagan practices. The prohibition applies regardless of who performs the tattooing.

Wisdom Behind the Prohibition

These practices involve deception about one's natural appearance, alteration of Allah's creation, and imitation of disbelievers. They violate the principle of accepting and being content with how Allah created us.

Exceptions & Related Rulings

Scholars make exception for medical necessities. Temporary adornments like henna are permitted as they're not permanent alterations. The prohibition primarily addresses women as mentioned in this hadith, but the principles apply to men regarding tattooing as well according to scholarly consensus.