That the Messenger of Allah (ﷺ) said: "Whoever arrogantly drags his garment, Allah will not look at him on the Day of Judgement." So Umm Salamah said: "What should the women do with their hems?" He said: "Slacken them a handspan." So she said: "Then their feet will be uncovered." He said: "Then slacken them a forearm's length and do not add to that."
He said: This Hadith is Hasan Sahih. In the Hadith there is a concession for women to drag their Izar because it covers them better.
The Book on Clothing - Jami' at-Tirmidhi 1731
This narration from the Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) addresses the prohibition of dragging garments out of arrogance and provides specific guidance for women regarding their hems.
Prohibition of Arrogant Dragging
The initial prohibition targets those who drag their garments out of pride and arrogance. This action reflects an attitude of superiority and vanity, which Allah strongly condemns.
The severe consequence - that Allah will not look at such a person on Judgment Day - indicates the gravity of this sin, as Allah's gaze signifies mercy and acceptance.
Women's Specific Ruling
Umm Salamah's question demonstrates the Companions' understanding that women's circumstances differ, requiring specific rulings for their attire.
The Prophet permitted women to lengthen their garments beyond what is allowed for men, recognizing that longer garments provide better covering for women's bodies.
Gradual Guidance
The Prophet's response shows his wisdom in providing gradual guidance: first suggesting a handspan, then when Umm Salamah expressed concern about feet being uncovered, permitting a forearm's length.
The final instruction "do not add to that" establishes a limit, preventing excess even in matters of modesty.
Scholarly Commentary
At-Tirmidhi's authentication of this hadith as "Hasan Sahih" confirms its reliability and authenticity in Islamic jurisprudence.
The concession for women to drag their izar (lower garment) is based on the principle that it provides better covering, aligning with the broader objective of modesty in Islamic dress code.
This ruling distinguishes between prohibited dragging (out of arrogance) and permitted dragging (for proper covering), highlighting Islam's balanced approach to religious injunctions.