The Book of Adornment - Sunan an-Nasa'i 5327

"The Messenger of Allah [SAW] said: 'Whoever drags his garment out of pride, Allah will not look at him on the Day of Resurrection.'"

Commentary on the Prohibition of Isbal

This noble hadith addresses the grave sin of isbal - the practice of letting one's garment extend below the ankles. The prohibition applies particularly to men, as established in numerous authentic narrations.

The phrase "out of pride" (khiyala') indicates the intention behind the action. Scholars have differed whether the prohibition applies only when done arrogantly or is absolute. The stronger opinion is that dragging garments below the ankles is forbidden regardless of intention, while doing so with pride compounds the sin.

The Severe Consequence

"Allah will not look at him" signifies the ultimate deprivation of divine mercy and pleasure. On the Day of Judgment, when believers yearn for Allah's compassionate gaze, this person will be denied this greatest blessing.

This divine disregard reflects the seriousness of this seemingly minor act, demonstrating how outward actions manifest inner spiritual states. The hadith teaches that humility in dress reflects humility before the Creator.

Scholarly Rulings and Applications

The majority of scholars consider isbal haram (forbidden) for men when the garment extends beyond the ankles. Some distinguished between intentional dragging and accidental lengthening.

This prohibition applies to all lower garments including trousers, thobes, and izars. The proper Islamic dress for men should extend no lower than the ankles, preserving modesty while avoiding extravagance and pride.