Are Tattoos Forbidden In Islam?

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Tattoos are considered haram in Islam, regardless of their cause or pain. They involve altering the creation of Allah and are considered haram by Muslims, as they involve changing the creation of Allah. Prophet Muhammad cursed those who do tattoos and those for whom they are done. The majority of Muslims consider permanent tattoos to be haram, based on hadith (oral traditions) of the Prophet Muhammad.

The Islamic Medicine Academy states that natural non-permanent tattoos are permitted in Islam, while permanent or semi-permanent tattoos are forbidden. Permanent tattoos are discouraged due to their permanence, potential health risks, and impact on purity. While there is no direct Quranic verse forbidding tattoos, the widely accepted interpretation is based on Islamic principles of body sanctity, Hadith, and scholarly interpretation.

The Quran mentions Satan will mislead humanity by “changing the creation of Allah”, making tattooing haramharam. The Sunnis prohibit tattoos based on scriptures in the Quran and the sayings of Prophet Muhammed. The Shia, however, allow certain types of body art, but permanent tattoos are not one of them.

Tattoos are permissible and do not affect wudhu, regardless of whether they are permanent or temporary. The Quran emphasizes that believers must submit to the teachings of the Prophet Muhammad and divine wisdom. While some body art may be allowed for Shia, permanent tattoos are generally considered haram by scholars.

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Can Muslims Get Piercings
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Can Muslims Get Piercings?

In summary, piercing in Islam is not inherently haram but its permissibility is contingent on several factors. Generally, ear piercings for women are widely accepted. Nose piercings may also be acceptable, depending on cultural norms. However, body piercings for men are largely discouraged and often viewed as impermissible. The reasoning is that, in many cultures, such adornments are primarily practiced by women.

It is important to adhere to cultural norms and to avoid imitating the opposite gender when considering piercings. In essence, men are prohibited from any form of body piercing, as it is associated with female adornment and thus deemed inappropriate.

Traditionally, ear piercings for women have been permitted, supported by historical context where women during the time of the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) would pierce their ears. Some scholars agree that ear piercing for girls as a form of adornment is permissible. The majority of Islamic scholars maintain that it is inappropriate for men to have body piercings as it falls under the category of imitation of women, which is discouraged in Islam. Additionally, some view it as a form of mutilation or unnecessary alteration to the body, which is similarly frowned upon.

The teachings of the Prophet emphasize that adopting practices from other cultures or genders can lead to condemnation, stating, "The one who imitates a nation is amongst them." Therefore, while women may pierce their ears or, under certain circumstances, their noses, men are expressly forbidden from body piercings as a form of adornment. In essence, piercings are permissible for women as long as they align with cultural practices and do not involve imitation of men. For men, however, body piercing is clearly prohibited. Hence, any intended piercing must respect Islamic principles and cultural norms accordingly.

Can You Pray With A Tattoo In Islam
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Can You Pray With A Tattoo In Islam?

In this fatwa, it is stated that tattoos are considered haram (forbidden) in Islam. An individual who qualifies to be an imam and is aware that tattoos are haram but has repented and cannot remove the tattoo, can still lead prayers. The community is encouraged to assist him in removing the tattoo. However, if the individual has not repented, he should not lead prayers.

Islamic teachings deem permanent tattoos, or decorative skin markings, impermissible. Those who have received tattoos must repent. If removal of the tattoo is financially difficult or causes harm, sincere repentance is still required. It is affirmed that Muslims with tattoos can pray, provided that they ensure the tattoo does not obstruct water during ablution (wudu). This is highlighted by a fatwa from Dr. Muzammil Siddiqi, former president of the Islamic Society of North America.

Muslims are able to perform prayers with tattoos, but should aim to remove them promptly and seek forgiveness from Allah. The act of tattooing is frowned upon as it is viewed as altering Allah's creation. Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) is reported to have cursed those involved in tattooing, reinforcing its prohibition.

While Islamic scholars generally agree on the impermissibility of tattoos, there are nuances in practice. If someone possesses a tattoo, they are still able to fulfill their religious duties, including daily prayers, as long as they observe ritual purity. It is also critical to maintain modesty and an earnest relationship with Allah in their prayers.

The use of tattoos is not explicitly mentioned in the Quran or Hadith, but Islamic bioethics denote its prohibition. Engaging in prayers involves ensuring that the area of the tattoo is not waterproof, as this would impede the wudu. Albeit sinful, the presence of a tattoo does not invalidate one's prayer.

To summarize, the consensus among scholars is that tattoos are forbidden in Islam, and one should strive to remove them if it does not cause undue hardship. An individual’s prayer can still be valid even if they possess a tattoo, provided that they maintain the necessary conditions for prayer, including purification and sincere intent. Ultimately, Muslims are encouraged to seek Allah's forgiveness and address the issue of tattoos seriously.

Can You Enter A Mosque With Tattoos
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Can You Enter A Mosque With Tattoos?

Visible tattoos must be covered when entering a mosque, which also requires the removal of shoes—suggesting slip-on footwear for convenience. Intimate behavior, such as holding hands or kissing, is deemed unacceptable in a Muslim worship space. The question of whether getting tattoos is permissible in Islam is debated; while some believe it is allowed, others assert it is not. For individuals who have tattoos from before converting to Islam or due to ignorance of Islamic teachings, covering them during mosque visits is essential, as tattoos might lead to perceptions of being a foreigner, especially in Egypt.

Islam encourages modesty, advocating against displaying tattoos since they are seen as altering Allah's creation. Individuals are advised to consider their attire when attending the mosque; dressing in a manner that fosters a spiritual connection is encouraged. Although the act of getting a tattoo may be sinful, it is believed that once embraced by faith, past sins can be forgiven. Nonetheless, covering tattoos is generally recommended.

The stances on tattoos vary within the Islamic community. In Sunni Islam, tattoos are considered haram due to teachings from the Prophet Muhammad, who forbade body modifications. Conversely, Shia Islam is more lenient, particularly regarding cosmetic tattoos, such as eyebrow tattoos. While their permissibility is contested within different sects, it is widely acknowledged that tattoos should not incorporate designs that conflict with Islamic principles, such as revealing the body inappropriately.

When visiting a mosque, respect dictates that tattoos should ideally be covered, especially if they depict anything offensive. It's important to remember that while idolatry is prohibited, all are welcome to visit mosques, and recommendations about attire and visible tattoos vary among different interpretations of Islamic doctrine.

What Does The Quran Say About Tattoos
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What Does The Quran Say About Tattoos?

The only verse in the Quran often cited to justify the prohibition of tattoos is 4:119, which talks about not "altering the creation of Allah," using the example of mutilating cattle. However, this verse does not condemn all forms of alteration, as humans often change trees for constructing homes. The Prophet Muhammad cursed both the tattoo artist and the recipient, indicating that tattooing is haram (forbidden) in all its forms, irrespective of whether it inflicts pain. Although there are no specific Quranic verses directly addressing tattoos, the scripture emphasizes the dignity and sanctity of the human body, discouraging unnecessary alterations.

Islamic scholars who view tattooing as a sin often cite hadiths, including one from Sahih al-Bukhari reported by Abu Juhayfa, claiming that the Prophet Muhammad condemned tattooing as body mutilation, pain, and an imitation of non-believers. The general understanding is that permanent tattoos are haram due to their lasting nature and the potential health risks involved, as well as their effect on one's spiritual purity.

Islam promotes moderation in beautifying oneself, particularly when such actions alter Allah's creation. The Quran cautions against alterations inspired by Satan. According to 'Abd-Allaah ibn Mas'ood, those who apply tattoos and those who have them applied are condemned by Allah. The belief is that followers should adhere to divine decrees rooted in Allah's wisdom; hence the prohibition against tattooing aligns with this spiritual perspective.

Despite being a topic of debate, the consensus remains that tattoos are discouraged in Islam, mainly due to their permanence and potential negative effects on the body. Alternatives like eyebrow plucking or teeth filing for beautification are similarly regarded as haram according to the consensus among scholars. Thus, engaging in tattooing is seen as a violation of Allah's creation, as both the Quran and hadith reflect a negative view towards the practice, leading many scholars to conclude that tattoos are indeed impermissible in Islam.

Is Piercing Allowed In Islam
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Is Piercing Allowed In Islam?

In conclusion, body piercing in Islam is not outright haram, but its acceptability differs based on various considerations:

  • Ear piercings for women: Widely accepted as a form of beauty enhancement.
  • Nose piercings for women: May be permissible, contingent on cultural norms.
  • Piercings for men: Generally restricted and often discouraged, as adornment through jewelry is primarily allowed for women.

The underlying principles include avoiding mutilation or unnecessary alterations, as defined by Muthla, which is prohibited in Islam. Piercing should not constitute a means of adornment associated chiefly with women. Islamically, body piercing is considered acceptable for women, as long as it aligns with cultural practices and does not aim to imitate men. According to Islamic teachings, the Prophet Muhammad (peace and blessings be upon him) indicated that imitating another culture could categorize an individual with that group.

Specifically, women may adorn themselves with ear and potentially nose piercings, while belly button rings, if not tied to specific groups of disbelieving women, can also be permissible. In the matter of ear piercings, various scholarly opinions exist: while the Hanafis and Hanbalis often permit them, the Shafi`is take a more cautious stance.

In summary, customary piercings for women, such as in the ears and sometimes noses, are generally accepted, provided they reflect norms within their culture and do not imitate male adornments. Conversely, body piercing for men is categorically marked as impermissible. Practices like tongue or navel piercings are typically considered haram due to the associated health risks. Ultimately, piercing is allowed for beautification within traditional norms, emphasizing that cultural context and intention are key factors in determining permissibility in Islam.

Can I Pray With A Temporary Tattoo
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Can I Pray With A Temporary Tattoo?

In Islamic practice, the concept of 'wudu' (ablution) is crucial as it involves washing specific body parts before prayers. The integrity of wudu requires that water reach the skin; therefore, any temporary tattoo must be permeable to not invalidate this purification ritual. Permanent tattoos are considered haram (forbidden) in Islam, and those who have them cannot perform prayers (ṣalāh) while they remain on the body. However, some temporary tattoos, particularly those that resemble traditional ones but do not form a barrier, can be permissible, akin to henna adornments.

The acceptance of prayers with tattoos, particularly those that are temporary, raises questions among scholars. Temporary tattoos that do not hinder water from reaching the skin are generally viewed as acceptable, although their complete removal is recommended. If a tattoo prevents the completion of wudu by blocking water, it is classified as impermissible.

It is essential to note that there are distinctions between types of tattoos. Natural, temporary designs that fade away are generally halal (permissible) since they do not entail permanent alteration of the Allah-given form. Muslims are encouraged to seek forgiveness for any past actions, including receiving tattoos, upon embracing Islam. The practice of temporary tattooing is acceptable as long as it meets the wudu requirement.

While henna tattoos are sometimes permitted for both men and women, the nuances of what constitutes a tattoo can influence the legitimacy of performing prayers. Therefore, it is vital for Muslims to be aware of the implications that tattoos have on their ability to maintain ritual purity through wudu while engaging in their religious practices.

Are Tattoos A Forgivable Sin In Islam
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Are Tattoos A Forgivable Sin In Islam?

Rakin Niass, a life coach and Islamic religious official (Muqaddam), explains that the prevailing opinion among Muslim scholars is that tattoos are haram (impermissible) as they alter Allah’s creation. However, this belief can vary across different Muslim sects. The general consensus on why tattoos are considered haram stems from Hadiths that indicate those who receive tattoos and those who administer them are cursed, categorizing tattooing as a major sin in Islam.

While there is no explicit Quranic verse prohibiting tattoos, the prohibition is rooted in Islamic teachings concerning body sanctity and the interpretations of Hadith. Sunnis largely prohibit tattoos based on scriptural evidence and teachings from Prophet Muhammad, while Shia scholars have a more lenient stance, allowing certain temporary tattoos that do not fulfill the criteria of being permanent.

Despite the lack of health risks associated with tattoos, the traditional view within Sunni Islam maintains that their permanence and alteration of the body deem them forbidden. Conversely, if a tattoo were to be temporary, it may not fall under the same category as permanent tattoos, allowing for some scholarly debate on the issue. Nonetheless, tattoos, particularly those permanent in nature, are discouraged in Islam due to their potential to interfere with one’s purity and spiritual standing.

For those with existing tattoos, repentance is vital, as Allah may forgive the sin. There are modern methods available for tattoo removal, offering a path to alleviate the burden of having them. Overall, while some scholars may allow tattoos that do not contain prohibited elements, the dominant belief remains that all forms of permanent tattooing are haram and subject to the aforementioned consequences. Ultimately, the quest for Allah’s mercy significantly factors into discussions about tattoos in Islam.

Can Muslims Have Tattoos
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Can Muslims Have Tattoos?

While the Quran and Hadith do not explicitly forbid tattoos, Islamic views on the topic vary significantly among Muslims. Generally, tattoos are perceived as haram (forbidden), primarily due to interpretations of Islamic teachings and the Hadith, which is a collection of sayings and practices of Prophet Muhammad. There is no direct verse in the Quran that prohibits tattoos, yet the majority consensus among scholars is against them based on Hadiths, such as the one recorded in Sahih Bukhari, where the Prophet is said to have cursed those who apply tattoos and those who have them done.

The rationale behind this prohibition is primarily centered on the idea that tattoos change the creation of Allah, which is considered a fundamental aspect of Islamic belief regarding the sanctity of the human body. Scholars argue that tattooing entails altering one's natural state, which is why it is classified as a sin. Although there is some flexibility in interpretations, where non-permanent forms of body art like henna are typically considered permissible, permanent tattoos are generally seen as transgressions of Islamic principles.

For those who already possess tattoos prior to becoming Muslim, opinions differ on how to reconcile this with their faith. Many Muslims believe that individuals with tattoos can engage in religious practices, such as prayer, by maintaining ritual purity and modesty, as long as they nurture a sincere connection with Allah.

While the Islamic Medicine Academy suggests that natural, non-permanent tattoos are allowed, emphasizing that henna is acceptable, both for women and in limited form for men, permanent tattoos remain widely condemned. The discussion around the permissibility of tattoos often highlights the differences between Sunni and Shia interpretations, with some Shia scholars being more lenient regarding tattoos compared to their Sunni counterparts.

In summary, while there is no explicit mention of tattoos in the Quran, the prevailing interpretation within Sunni Islam classifies them as haram. The analysis of the practices of the Prophet Muhammad and the subsequent scholarly consensus contributes to this viewpoint. Individuals contemplating tattoos may find themselves navigating a complex landscape of interpretations, and societal attitudes toward body art continue to evolve, even as traditional Islamic rulings maintain their prominence in the belief systems of many Muslims today.

What Are The Major Sins In Islam
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What Are The Major Sins In Islam?

In Islam, major sins, known as al-Kaba'ir, are significant offenses explicitly forbidden by Allah in the Qur'an and by His Messenger in the Sunnah. The foremost of these sins is Shirk, which refers to associating partners with Allah, leading to eternal damnation for those who die in this state without repentance. Among other major sins are:

  1. Murder - Taking the life of an individual.
  2. Consuming an Orphan's Property - Misappropriating the wealth entrusted to one's care.
  3. Riba (Interest) - Engaging in usury or deceitful financial practices.
  4. Witchcraft - Practicing sorcery or magic.
  5. Theft - Illegally taking someone else's belongings.
  6. Harassment of Parents - Disrespecting or mistreating one's parents.
  7. Neglecting Salah (Prayer) - Failing to perform the five daily prayers.

These sins are serious and encompass actions recommended against by the actions and sayings of the Prophet Muhammad and the consensus of earlier righteous Muslims. A concise list of some of the major sins includes associating anything with Allah (Shirk), committing murder, practicing sorcery, abandoning prayer, neglecting zakah (charitable giving), not fasting during Ramadan, and various forms of moral decay such as slander, sexual immorality, pride, and bearing false witness.

Major sins are often dichotomized into two categories for clarity: those that require capital punishment, such as murder and theft, and those that incur severe spiritual repercussions, like the consumption of riba and dishonoring orphans. The essence of major sins is derived from Quranic verses and hadiths that denote a clear threat of punishment in the hereafter. Allah emphasizes the importance of avoiding these sins; anyone who avoids great sins will have smaller sins forgiven and will be granted an honorable entry into paradise.

In summary, the major sins in Islam encapsulate both spiritual breaches and societal injustices, underscoring the importance of obedience to divine commandments for the integrity of individual souls and broader communities.


📹 Why Are Tattoos Forbidden in Islam? – Suhaib Webb

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11 comments

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  • I am Muslim, go to mosque, help others, don’t hurt or cheat others. I got my a small tattoo on my hand, a moon and star only. Do you think I’m going to go to hell? I have seen people who got to mosques 5 times a day and they hurt others, harm others, cheat others, eat haram blah blah blah. So are they greater than me? And if Allah said alteration is not allowed in body, then why do we get circumcised? Why we do not stay the same as we are born? Lots of information on google and YouTube. Some are saying, tattoo is haram a big sin, some are saying it’s not unless we don’t draw bad images or disrespect someone through our tattoos. Don’t know who to listen, I’m just happy with my tattoo, people can put any fatwah on me, I don’t give a damn. As Allah knows my inside heart that I love my religion and have strong faith of Islam.

  • Muslim white 🇺🇸 here, Hadith isn’t in the Quran but I never got a tattoo because I think they look silly. I think too many tattoos would change ones appearance, but a few, I don’t know this is tough, the question id ask all Muslims, would you raise your kids giving them freedom to get a tattoo? I wouldn’t but I think lots of Muslims have tattoos now. Maybe your favorite verse or something spiritual.

  • What i understand is if we think there is 2 opinion regarding tattooing. Then it is better we avoid it. Secondly our body is a vehicle provided by Allah to us. We are obliged to maintain it in a good way and in the same way it was given to us. Our soul is just using this vehicle in the worldly life for very less time. Tomorrow we know our body itself will be a witness to the actions we did. So this perspective does not create a second reason for tattooing. Rather it makes us clear what Islam teaches us and why it is so strict to all other additions and modifications people do on their body. May Allah give us better understanding and guide us to the right path.

  • Henna goes above the skin and fades. . . wouldn’t that “interfere” with whudu. Ink goes below the skin and also fades, albeit at a slower rate but it does fade. water does not go below your skin when making whudu. Why is the first halal but the second haram. Why is a temporary tattoo allowed, but a longer lasting one not allowed? Please provide a quranic verse not a hadith as we follow the quran not hadith. the hadith is simply there as a guidence for interpreting the quran.

  • no disrespect but referring to what the prophet time of what it symbolized doesn’t do the question any justice. yes am i aware the prophet said those wth tattoo are cursed. but why? it doesnt mean that now days and what about when i go to the gym and change my physique or use chemicals to help my scars, hair etc. i want a tattoo on my back of a sword. intentions are to remind myself of who i am as a individual also basil my name in arabic. warrior brave bold. is it sin to have a fashion,style some uniqueness? i don’t like beards much. since when did islam become about fashion. its about the pure intentions. a lot more than logic, sorry if i offended anyone

  • If i am interested in a girl and she had tattoos before accepting islam, accepted it and then proceeded to get her parents name on her leg Does that make her a bad option for marriage? She has a wonderful personality and is a kind hearted girl but she for some reason is inclined towards body modification Any answers and guidance will be greatly appreciated brothers and sisters Jazakullah khair

  • Okay we are not in the time of prophet saw we are 1400 years late I have been looking to see if tattoo are haram or halal for a long time but can’t find a straight answer with proof I am not trying to get anything bad on my body but my sister name not a demon or a cross or any of that crap just a name of my sister(REETAJ)

  • With all due respect but not a satisfying answer, lately we’ve been told that a lot of the things we heard about the prophet were not true because they are “hadeeth daeef”, getting a Tattoo is not like plastic surgery, if you think about it bodybuilding is also change the way god made you so as many other things, I wouldn’t do anything that sinful in Islam but until I get a reasonable explanation…, maybe when prophet Mohammed (PBUH) said that he was referring to the prostitute and wasn’t talking about if it was sinful or not

  • In all actuality tattoos are halal, anyone getting a tattoo should know by getting a tattoo this can be very beneficial, just to point out a couple of reasons. One being, the immune system is strengthening, I’m not saying get a full back tattoo but periodically a small tattoo can boost your immune system also, if you are a diabetic there is an ink that illuminates when glucoses levels change, these are just a few. With all respect to this article, there a lot of benefits from thing in which many imams say are haram just like alcohol there are benefits to alcohol but ignorance and misuses of these gifts have taken lives and destroyed families, that’s where our free will come forward, and only Allah knows best.

  • wow, that was a horrible article with zero response. People want to give their opinions rather than facts. I guess at the rate of modifying the body (changing the creation of Allah SWT) we should not get braces, lasik surgery, weight loss, body building, weight gain since all of these change the creation of Allah SWT.

  • The Quran is completed and it’s God’s fully words which is completed and it doesn’t say anything about not having tattoo’s. Me where I’m originally from people there believe everything is haram even if a man grows his Own hair as an afro or have a dog as a pet, which brings me to this conclusion as well which is, the Quran doesn’t say anything about having a dog being haram.

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