Yes, according to the general Islamic perspective, tattooing is strictly prohibited (haram).
Islamic View on Tattoos
According to Islamic teachings, tattoos are considered haram, meaning forbidden. This is based on the following:
-
Religious Texts: The Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) explicitly condemned tattooing. In a Hadith narrated by Ibn 'Umar, it is stated that the Messenger of Allah (ﷺ) cursed both the maker and wearer of wigs, as well as the tattooer and the one who is tattooed (Bukhari).
-
Changing Allah's Creation: Some Islamic scholars argue that tattoos alter the natural form that Allah has created, which is not permissible.
Why is Tattooing Considered Haram?
The prohibition of tattoos is rooted in several principles:
- Respect for the Body: The body is viewed as a trust from Allah and should be treated with respect. Altering it through tattooing is seen as a violation of this trust.
- Cleanliness: The process of tattooing involves piercing the skin and introducing foreign substances, which can be considered impure.
- Imitation: The hadith condemns the act of changing what was created, and the practice was something practiced by other cultures that should not be copied.
Consequences in Islam
- Major Sin: The act of tattooing is categorized as a major sin in Islam, as clearly stated in Hadith.
- Seeking Forgiveness: If someone has a tattoo, it is recommended to seek forgiveness from Allah.
- Removal of the Tattoo: While some scholars argue removal is preferable if it is possible, others acknowledge that removal might not be necessary or practical. However, the most important aspect is sincere repentance and to avoid future tattooing.
| Aspect | Islamic View |
|---|---|
| Status of Tattoos | Haram (strictly prohibited) |
| Basis | Religious texts (Hadith) |
| Reason | Alteration of Allah's creation, impurity |
| Consequence | Major sin |
| Recommendation | Seek forgiveness |
