Rings in Islam (Arabic: خاتم k͟hātim)
Etymology and Origin
- Arabic: خاتم (k͟hātim)
- Plural in Arabic: خواتم (k͟hawātim)
- Turkish: Yüzük
Significance and Usage
Rings, particularly signet rings, hold a significant place in Islamic culture and legalistic traditions. The term “k͟hātim” refers to rings, and usage is well-documented with religious and cultural specificity.
Permissibility and Restrictions
Silver signet rings are permissible for men in Islam, whereas gold rings are traditionally prohibited. This ruling finds its foundation in several prophetic traditions (aḥādīth), with one notable narration from Ṣaḥīḥu ’l-Bukhārī:
<p>Ibn ʿUmar reports: “The Prophet took a gold ring and put it on his right hand, but he later discarded it in favor of a silver ring, upon which the inscription ‘Muḥammadun Rasūlu ’llāh’ (Muḥammad, the Messenger of God) was crafted.” (‘See Ṣaḥīḥu ʾl-Buk͟hārī, p. 871’)</p>
Prohibitions and Recommendations by the Prophet (PBUH)
- Inscription: The Prophet (PBUH) advised against replicating his specific ring inscription, though general inscriptions are allowed.
- Finger Specificity: The Prophet (PBUH) wore his ring on his little finger and discouraged wearing it on the forefinger or middle finger, according to ʿAlī.
- Hand Specificity: Anas narrated that the Prophet’s ring was seen on his right hand.
Modern Practices
Modern Muslim men often adhere to these traditions by wearing a silver ring on the little finger of their right hand, usually incised with their name and the term ʿabdu (عبد), signifying servitude to God. These rings are functional beyond ornamentation, often used to seal documents with ink.
Women and Rings
There are no restrictions in Islamic law regarding the types of rings women can wear. Gold rings, commonly adorned by many Muslim women, are used as jewelry on fingers, ears, and noses.
Cultural and Legal Implications
The cultural practice of using signet rings as stamps on official documents underscores their importance in Islamic history and law.
Books for Further Studies
- “Ṣaḥīḥ al-Bukhārī” by Imam Bukhārī
- “Islamic Jewelry and Ornaments” by Sheila Blair
- “Women, Praise, and Power: The Cultural Ornaments of Sultanate and Pre-Modern Islamic Art” by Robyn Lee Tanney
- “A Legal Guide for Muslims: Traditions and Permissibilities” by Muḥammad Mahdi
Key Takeaways
- Permissibility: Men’s silver rings are allowed; gold rings are prohibited.
- Prohibitions: Specific prophetic restrictions on ring inscription and which fingers to avoid.
- Women’s Rings: No strict legal confines; gold and other types of jewelry are permissible.
- Cultural Usage: Rings serve utilitarian purposes like signing documents.
Conclusion
Understanding the Islamic rules and cultural significance of rings provides insight into how these simple adornments are intertwined with religious practice, propriety, and legal traditions. Rings in Islam, especially when signet, are more than mere jewelry; they are embodiments of faith, cultural identity, and legal authority.
