The question of whether a wedding ring is permissible in Islam is a frequent topic of inquiry, especially as the custom becomes more prevalent within Muslim communities. Many wonder if wearing a ring on the left hand is an imitation of non-Muslims or if it carries superstitious beliefs that contradict Islamic teachings.
This article explores the historical origins of the wedding ring, the Islamic ruling on adopting this custom, and the specific prohibitions regarding gold for men.
Historical Origins of the Wedding Ring
The tradition of the engagement or wedding ring dates back thousands of years.
- Ancient Egypt: Some historians suggest the Pharaohs were the first to invent the concept.
- Greek Beliefs: The custom of wearing the ring on the “ring finger” of the left hand is often linked to an ancient Greek belief that a vein (the vena amoris) ran directly from this finger to the heart.
- Christian & European Custom: Later, the British and other European cultures adopted the ring as part of the marriage ceremony, sometimes regarding it as a religious symbol.
The Islamic Ruling: Is it Imitation?
Despite these non-Muslim origins, wearing an engagement or wedding ring is not considered unlawful in Islam.
Prominent scholars and Fatwa committees state that there is no religious text that explicitly forbids this practice. It is not classified as the prohibited form of “imitating unbelievers” (Tashabbuh) because the custom has become a general societal norm rather than a specific religious ritual exclusive to a non-Muslim faith.
However, Muslims must be careful to avoid any superstitious beliefs associated with the ring. Believing that removing the ring is a “bad omen” or that the ring itself creates love is a form of Shirk (associating partners with Allah) because only Allah holds the power of benefit and harm.
Gold vs. Silver: Rules for Men and Women
While the act of wearing a ring is permissible, the material of the ring is subject to strict Islamic dress codes.
1. For Women: Women are permitted to wear rings made of gold, silver, or diamonds.
2. For Men: It is strictly forbidden (Haram) for Muslim men to wear gold rings. Men may only wear rings made of silver or other non-gold metals.
The Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him) said:
“Gold and silk have been made HALAL for the females of my Ummah and HARAM for the males.” (Sunan an-Nasa’i 5148)
In another incident, the Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him) saw a man wearing a gold ring. He removed it from the man’s hand and threw it away, saying:
“One of you takes a live coal from the fire and puts it on his hand.” (Sahih Muslim 2090)
Therefore, if a Muslim man chooses to wear a wedding ring, it must be silver.
