The Book of Adornment - Sunan an-Nasa'i 5253

"The Messenger of Allah [SAW] cursed the women who do tattoos, those who have their teeth separated and Al-Mutanammisat who change the creation of Allah, the Mighty and Sublime."

Scholarly Commentary

This noble hadith from the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) addresses three specific practices that constitute unlawful alteration of Allah's creation. The curse mentioned indicates the gravity of these sins in Islamic law.

Tattooing (al-washimah) involves permanently marking the skin with ink, which constitutes changing Allah's natural creation without legitimate medical necessity. This practice was common among pre-Islamic societies and is prohibited as it alters the human form that Allah created in the best stature.

Tooth separation (al-mutafallijat) refers to creating gaps between teeth for cosmetic purposes, which was practiced by some women to appear more beautiful. This constitutes unnecessary alteration of the natural creation.

Al-Mutanammisat refers to those who seek to have tattoos removed or altered, indicating dissatisfaction with Allah's decree or attempting to reverse previous alterations. The comprehensive prohibition demonstrates Islam's emphasis on preserving the natural human form as created by Allah.

Legal Rulings & Exceptions

The prohibition applies to cosmetic alterations without legitimate need. Scholars make exceptions for medical treatments, reconstructive surgery after injury, or procedures necessary to restore normal function.

The wisdom behind these prohibitions includes: preserving human dignity, avoiding imitation of disbelieving cultures, preventing harm to the body, and maintaining gratitude for Allah's creation. The ruling applies to both men and women, though the hadith specifically mentions women as they were more commonly engaged in these practices.