Yes, you can pray with mehndi, but only if it's pure henna. Pure henna stains the skin but doesn't create a barrier preventing water from reaching the skin, which is crucial for proper ablution (wudu) required before prayer. However, if the mehndi contains other materials that form a barrier, preventing proper cleansing, then prayer is not valid until the barrier is removed and proper ablution is performed.
Understanding the Significance of Wudu
Wudu, the ritual cleansing before prayer in Islam, requires water to reach the skin. Any substance that prevents this will invalidate the wudu and, subsequently, the prayer. Pure henna does not create such a barrier.
Types of Mehndi and Their Impact on Prayer
- Pure Henna: Perfectly acceptable to pray with. It stains the skin but doesn't block water absorption.
- Mehndi with Additives: If the mehndi contains additional ingredients that create a waterproof layer, then it will impede proper wudu and invalidate prayer.
Multiple sources confirm that the key factor is whether the substance applied to the skin prevents water from reaching it during ablution. Only pure henna allows for proper water penetration.
Practical Advice
- Use only pure henna if you wish to pray with mehndi.
- Ensure your wudu is performed correctly after applying henna.
- If unsure about the composition of your mehndi, it's best to remove it before prayer to avoid any doubt about the validity of your ablution.
