Abu Musa al-Ash‘ari reported the Prophet as saying, “Gold and silk are permitted to the females among my people but prohibited to the males.” Tirmidhi and Nasa’i transmitted it, Tirmidhi saying this is a hasan sahih tradition.
Exegesis of the Prohibition
This noble hadith from the Book of Clothing in Mishkat al-Masabih (Reference: Mishkat al-Masabih 4341) establishes a fundamental distinction in Islamic attire law. Gold and silk, being symbols of luxury and adornment, are divinely designated as lawful for women while being forbidden for men. This prohibition for males stems from the principle of maintaining masculine dignity and avoiding resemblance to the opposite gender or arrogant display.
Juridical Analysis
The consensus of classical scholars holds this prohibition to be one of tahrim (unlawfulness), not merely karaha (dislike). Imam Tirmidhi's authentication as "hasan sahih" reinforces its authoritative status.
Exceptions exist for medical necessity, such as silk bandages for skin conditions, following the principle of "necessity permits the prohibited." Military necessity during travel in cold regions may also permit silk lining in garments.
Spiritual Wisdom
This distinction cultivates gender differentiation (ghayrah) in society, preserving natural boundaries. For men, abstaining from gold and silk nurtures qualities of simplicity and detachment from worldly adornment, aligning with prophetic character.
The permission for women recognizes their natural inclination toward beauty and adornment within marital and social contexts, while maintaining modesty requirements elsewhere defined in Shariah.