The prevailing view is that it is not haram (forbidden) for women to put henna on their feet.
Detailed Explanation:
Islamically, beautification is generally permissible for women. Applying henna, a natural dye, is considered a form of beautification and adornment. There is no specific Islamic text explicitly prohibiting the application of henna to the feet or hands for women.
Considerations for Prayer (Salah/Namaz):
A crucial consideration is ensuring that the application of henna does not impede the performance of wudu (ablution) before prayer. Wudu requires water to reach all parts of the skin that are required to be washed.
- Before applying henna: Ensure your feet are clean and free from any barriers that would prevent water from reaching the skin during wudu.
- During henna application: Be mindful that the henna paste itself acts as a barrier. Therefore, wudu must be performed before applying the henna, or the henna must be completely removed before performing wudu.
- After henna application (once the paste is removed): The henna stain left on the skin does not prevent water from reaching the skin; therefore, wudu can be performed normally.
Summary:
Applying henna to the feet is permissible for women in Islam, as it's considered a form of beautification. The most important factor is to ensure that it does not interfere with the proper performance of wudu.