Commentary on the Prohibition of Arrogant Dragging of Garments

This noble hadith from the Book of Clothing in Mishkat al-Masabih (Reference: Mishkat al-Masabih 4312) addresses the grave sin of arrogance manifested through one's attire. The scholars explain that trailing one's garment out of pride and arrogance constitutes both an act of disobedience and a manifestation of inner vanity.

The Meaning of "Trailing Arrogantly"

The Arabic term "khiyala" refers to deliberately allowing one's garment to extend beyond what is necessary, dragging it on the ground with an air of superiority and pride. This is distinct from unintentional lengthening due to one's natural stature.

Imam al-Nawawi explains that this prohibition applies when the action stems from arrogance and seeking to appear superior to others. The garment becomes a means of displaying pride and self-importance.

The Severity of the Punishment

The threat of "God will not look at him" indicates the gravity of this sin. In Islamic theology, Allah's "looking" signifies His mercy, pleasure, and acceptance. Being deprived of this divine gaze means being excluded from divine mercy and forgiveness on the Day of Judgment.

Ibn Hajar al-Asqalani comments that this punishment reflects how arrogance contradicts the fundamental relationship between the servant and his Lord, for arrogance is among the attributes that Allah has reserved for Himself alone.

Practical Implications and Wisdom

The scholars derive from this hadith the obligation to maintain modesty in dress and avoid anything that may indicate pride or extravagance. This includes ensuring one's garments do not extend beyond the ankles for men.

The prohibition serves to cultivate humility and eliminate causes of arrogance, which the Prophet described as "rejecting the truth and looking down on people" (Muslim). It teaches Muslims that even in matters of clothing, one must observe the boundaries of modesty and avoid anything that may lead to spiritual corruption.