The Book of Adornment - Sunan an-Nasa'i 5146

"The Prophet of Allah [SAW] took hold of some silk in his right hand, and some gold in his left, then he said: 'These two are forbidden for the males of my Ummah.'"

Commentary on the Prohibition

This noble hadith establishes a clear prohibition for Muslim men regarding the wearing of pure silk and gold. The Prophet's physical demonstration - holding silk in one hand and gold in the other - emphasizes the gravity of this prohibition and makes the ruling visually memorable for his companions and subsequent generations.

Scholars have understood this prohibition as applying to clothing, accessories, and ornaments made from these materials. The wisdom behind this ruling includes avoiding resemblance to women's adornment, preventing extravagance and pride, and maintaining distinction from non-Muslim practices of that era.

Scholarly Exceptions and Applications

The majority of scholars permit the use of silk and gold for medical necessity, such as when prescribed by a trustworthy physician. Some scholars also allow minimal silk in garment linings or mixed fabrics where silk is not the dominant material.

Women are exempt from this prohibition, as established in other authentic narrations, allowing them the use of silk and gold for adornment. This distinction reflects the Islamic principle of recognizing natural differences between genders while maintaining modesty and propriety.

Contemporary Relevance

In modern times, this prohibition remains binding unless there is genuine medical necessity. Muslim men should carefully examine clothing labels and jewelry content to ensure compliance. The spiritual benefit of adhering to this prohibition includes cultivating contentment with permissible provisions and following the Sunnah of the Prophet [SAW].