Ornaments in Islam
Definition and Religious Regulations
In Islam, the use of ornaments, especially for men, is subject to detailed regulations based on religious teachings and prophetic traditions (Hadith).
Gold and Silver
According to Islamic law (Shari’a), men are generally prohibited from wearing gold. This interdiction includes items such as rings or other types of jewelry. The source of this prohibition can be traced back to explicit instructions from the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH):
- Etymology: The Arabic term for gold is ذهب (dhahab), and silver is فضة (fidda).
- Turkish Translations: Gold is altın, and silver is gümüş.
Exceptions
While the use of ornaments made from gold is strictly forbidden, silver ornaments encounter more nuanced rules. Though generally avoided, men are permitted to use silver in specific contexts:
- Signet Rings: Rings utilized for sealing documents may be silver.
- Girdles and Swords: These may be adorned with silver.
Anthropological Note: Use of Bells
It is noteworthy that the use of small bells as ornaments, particularly for children, is also discouraged. This stance is derived from the Prophet’s saying:
- “Ibn Zubair reported that the Prophet (PBUH) condemned the use of little bells as ornaments for children, stating that ’there is a devil in every bell.'”
Scholarly References
- The Hidāyah (vol. iv, p. 92): This is one of the premier manuals of Hanafi jurisprudence that outlines the restrictions and allowances regarding the use of ornaments.
- Mishkāt (book xx, ch. ii): A key Hadith collection that elaborates on the teachings of the Prophet related to the wearing of gold and other ornamental practices.
Cultural Context: Wahhabism
The Wahhabī movement, known for its stringent adherence to the early teachings of Islam, extends the prohibition further by condemning both ornaments and the wearing of silk dresses by men.
- Respectable Clothing: Issues like the use of silk find rigorous condemnation, paralleling their stance on gold.
Recommendations for Further Study
For those interested in a deeper understanding of these topics, the following books are recommended:
- “Hidāyah: The Guide” (see specific volume for the ruling on gold and silver).
- “Mishkāt al-Masabīḥ” (particularly the sections on dress and adornment).
- “Islamic Jurisprudence” by Imran Ahsan Khan Nyazee.
- “The Spirit of Islamic Law” by Bernard G. Weiss.
- “Wahhabism: A Critical Essay” by Hamid Algar.
Takeaways
- Prohibition of Gold: Men in Islam are expressly forbidden from wearing gold ornaments.
- Permissible Silver Use: Exceptions are made for silver, specifically in functional or minor decorative contexts.
- Cultural Nuances: Broader cultural impacts and interpretations (e.g., Wahhabism) reflect differing levels of conservativeness concerning personal adornment.
- Hadith References: Key Hadiths reinforce these scriptures-based rules, shaping daily life practices among men in the Muslim community.
Conclusion
The regulations around ornaments in Islam serve not only as religious guidelines but also as cultural markers that inform the daily lives and practices of Muslim men. The overarching principles uphold modesty, simplicity, and adherence to prophetic traditions, reflecting broader Islamic ethical and moral standards.
By understanding these regulations, followers can better align their actions with their faith, reflecting a coherent practice that encompasses spiritual, social, and personal dimensions.
