Exposition of the Prohibition

This narration from Sahih al-Bukhari 5947 addresses two distinct practices: artificial hair extension (الوَاصِلَة) and tattooing (الوَاشِمَة). The curse applies reciprocally to both the practitioner and the recipient, indicating the gravity of these alterations to Allah's creation.

Scholarly Commentary on Artificial Hair

Scholars explain that connecting false hair (wigs or extensions) constitutes deception by presenting what is not real as genuine. This violates the principle of honesty in appearance and alters Allah's creation without necessity.

Imam al-Nawawi states this prohibition applies whether the hair is from humans or animals, and whether attached to one's own hair or worn as a separate piece, except in cases of genuine medical necessity.

Understanding the Tattooing Prohibition

Tattooing involves permanently inserting ink beneath the skin to create designs, which scholars consider a violation of the sanctity of the body entrusted to us by Allah.

Ibn Hajar al-Asqalani explains that tattooing changes Allah's creation permanently and often involves unnecessary pain and imitation of disbelieving cultures.

Legal Rulings and Exceptions

The majority of scholars consider both practices forbidden (haram) based on the explicit curse mentioned in the hadith.

Exceptions exist for medical prosthetics or reconstructive procedures that restore natural appearance after injury or illness, as these aim to correct defects rather than deceive.

Spiritual Wisdom Behind the Prohibition

These prohibitions preserve the natural creation of Allah and prevent deception in social interactions. They also protect believers from imitating practices associated with immoral cultures and maintain the dignity of the human form.

The reciprocal curse emphasizes communal responsibility in upholding Islamic standards of modesty and authenticity.