"I heard 'Ali say: 'The Messenger of Allah [SAW] took some gold in his right hand and some silk in his left hand and said: This is forbidden for the males of my Ummah.'"
The Book of Adornment - Sunan an-Nasa'i
Hadith Reference: Sunan an-Nasa'i 5147
Textual Analysis
The noble hadith transmitted by Imam 'Ali (may Allah be pleased with him) establishes a clear prohibition regarding two specific materials for Muslim men: gold and silk. The Prophet's (ﷺ) deliberate action of holding gold in his right hand and silk in his left while pronouncing the prohibition emphasizes the gravity and clarity of this ruling.
Legal Ruling (Hukm)
This hadith provides definitive evidence for the prohibition (tahrim) of gold and silk for Muslim males. The scholars of Islam have unanimously agreed upon this prohibition based on this and other authentic narrations. The wisdom behind this prohibition includes distinguishing Muslim men in their appearance, preventing extravagance, and maintaining masculine dignity.
Scope of Prohibition
The prohibition encompasses all forms of gold adornment for men, including rings, chains, watches, and any items containing gold. Similarly, pure silk garments are forbidden, though mixed fabrics containing minimal silk may have different rulings according to some scholars. Exceptions exist for medical necessity as established in other authentic narrations.
Spiritual Significance
This prohibition serves as a means of spiritual purification, teaching Muslim men to avoid luxury and ostentation. It cultivates humility and distinguishes the Muslim community in its outward appearance. The differentiation between permissible adornment for women and prohibited for men reflects the divine wisdom in Islamic legislation regarding gender distinctions.