Imitating the Kuffar
من تشبه بقوم فهو منهم
Whoever imitates a nation is from amongst them. [Abu Dawud]
Shariat has prohibited one from adopting the appearance and code of dress of the disbelievers. Our ways and habits should be unique and contrary to the lifestyle of the Kuffar. Allah Ta’ala states in the Quraan Sharif, “And do not incline towards the sinners (Kuffar) for then the fire (of Jahannam) will reach you.” [Surah Hood]
Abdullah Bin Amr Bin Aas Radiallahu Anhu narrates that Rasulullah Salallahu Alaihi Wasallam saw me wearing two pieces of cloth dyed in saffron. He remarked, “These are from amongst the clothing of the Kuffar, therefore do not wear them.” [Muslim]
Rukana Radiallahu Anhu narrates that Rasulullah Salallahu Alaihi Wasallam is reported to have said, “Wearing the turban over the Topi (headgear) differentiates between us and the polytheist.” The author of Mirqaat states that the polytheist would only wear a turban whereas we wear a Topi and the turban is worn over the Topi. [Tirmidhi]
Abu Hurairah Radiallahu Anhu narrates that Rasulullah Salallahu Alaihi Wasallam is reported to have said, “Men that don the clothing of women and women that don the clothing of men are cursed.” [Abu Dawud]
We Muslims that are followers of Rasulullah Salallahu Alaihi Wasallam should emulate our leader and master in all our matters whether dressing, eating, business, interacting with others, etc. This is the lifestyle that is loved and accepted by Allah Ta’ala as the Quraan Sharif states; Say (O Muhammad Salallahu Alaihi Wasallam), “If you love Allah then follow me (Muhammad Salallahu Alaihi Wasallam), Allah will love you (He will reward you and grant you numerous material and spiritual blessings) and forgive your sins. Allah is Most Forgiving, Most Merciful.”
Nowadays, our friendship and association with the Kuffar has increased to a great extent. As a result, we visit them, go out with them, invite them to our functions, attend their functions, etc. This has resulted in us emulating their ways and habits, and many of our youngsters now desire marrying girls of other faiths. Although, these girls would accept Islam before marriage, many of them remain firm and strong in their un-Islamic ways and habits, and as a result their habits are transferred into our homes. Our children then grow up emulating their lifestyle. It is for this reason that Umar Radiallahu Anhu prevented Sahaabah from marrying the Ahle Kitaab. He feared that their evil practices and customs will enter our homes.
Also, many of our young brothers and sisters studying at universities and highschool are inclining towards Kufr and atheistic beliefs. How many have renounced their Deen and families, sometimes due to friends, whilst at other times due to marriage! May Allah Ta’ala grant us the understanding and protect us and the Muslim Ummah at large. Ameen!
Published by: Darul Ifta Ibn Masood Publication Department Address:- 15 Carbis Road, Pietermaritzburg, 3201, South Africa, Mobile:- 084 584 2198, mailto:- iftapmb@gmail.com, Website:- fataawa.co.za