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In Islam, Are Men Allowed to Wear Tight Clothes?

22-11-2024

Question 34365

What is Isbal and what is the ruling on it? What is the Shar`i definition of it, and how can we refute those who say, “I am not doing it to show off”? What is your opinion of those (men) who wear tight and see-through clothing so that they become a fitnah (source of temptation) to others?

Summary of answer:

Wearing see-through clothing that shows the `Awrah is not permissible in Islam. The same applies to tight clothing that reveals the shape of the `Awrah and cause of Fitnah.

Answer

Praise be to Allah.

Understanding Isbal and Its Implications in Islam

Isbal means making the clothes so long that they drag beneath the ankle  The prohibition on Isbal  is mentioned in the Hadith of the Prophet (peace and blessings of Allah be upon him): “Whatever part of the lower garment comes beneath the ankles is in the Fire.” (Narrated by Al-Bukhari, 5787)

This warning does not apply to something that is disliked or permissible, rather the warning of Hellfire usually comes to the one who does a prohibited action.

If a man says, “I am not doing it to show off,” he is praising himself and that is not acceptable. The Hadith is general in meaning and includes everyone who lets his garment hang down, whether that is out of pride or otherwise.

With regard to the one who lets his garment hang down out of pride, his punishment will be more severe. The Prophet (peace and blessings of Allah be upon him) said: “Isbal may apply to the Izar (lower garment), shirt and turban. Whoever lets any of them hang down out of pride, Allah will not look at him on the Day of Resurrection.” (Narrated by Abu Dawud, 4085 and An-Nasa’i, 5334; with an authentic chain of narration)

Is Wearing Tight Clothing That Reveals the Body’s Shape Permissible?

With regard to wearing see-through clothing that shows the `Awrah , this is prohibited and is not permissible, because the one who does that is not considered to be covering his `Awrah.

The same applies to tight clothes  which show the size and shape of the `Awrah  and are a cause of Fitnah (temptation). We are living in an age where desires are easily provoked and there is a great deal of Fitnah , so how can it be appropriate for the Muslim youth to make matters worse and expose themselves to the wrath of the Lord?

And Allah knows best.

Rulings on Dress
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