The Book of Adornment - Sunan an-Nasa'i 5265

The Messenger of Allah [SAW] said: "Allah has permitted silk and gold to the females of my Ummah, and has forbidden them to the males."

Scholarly Commentary

This noble hadith establishes a fundamental distinction in Islamic law regarding adornment between men and women. The prohibition of silk and gold for men stems from the principles of masculinity and avoidance of extravagance, while their permissibility for women acknowledges their natural inclination toward beauty and adornment.

The wisdom behind this ruling includes: preserving masculine character, preventing imitation between genders, curbing extravagance and pride in men, while allowing women appropriate means of beautification that align with their feminine nature. This distinction reflects the divine wisdom in legislating different rulings that suit the inherent dispositions of each gender.

Scholars have consistently maintained that this prohibition applies to all forms of silk garments and gold jewelry for men, with limited exceptions for medical necessity. For women, the permission is comprehensive, allowing them to wear silk clothing and gold ornaments as part of their lawful adornment, provided it remains within the boundaries of modesty and does not involve extravagance or showing off.