The Book of Adornment - Sunan an-Nasa'i 5331

"Whatever of the Izar comes below the ankles is in the Fire."

Textual Analysis

The term "Izar" refers to the lower garment worn by men, covering from the waist downward. The phrase "comes below the ankles" indicates any portion of the garment that extends beyond the ankle bones.

"Is in the Fire" signifies that such excess fabric is deserving of punishment in Hellfire, indicating the gravity of this transgression in Islamic law.

Legal Ruling & Wisdom

Scholars unanimously agree that allowing one's garment to drag below the ankles is prohibited (haram) for men. This ruling applies whether done out of arrogance or mere negligence.

The wisdom behind this prohibition includes: preventing wastefulness in clothing, maintaining cleanliness and dignity, avoiding resemblance to women's dress, and eliminating any manifestation of pride and arrogance in one's appearance.

Practical Application

The proper length for a man's lower garment is at or above the ankles, with many scholars recommending mid-shin length as the optimal practice following the Sunna.

This hadith serves as a stern warning against isbal (letting garments drag), which the Prophet ﷺ repeatedly condemned in numerous authentic narrations.