The purpose behind this policy of visible distinction is further clarified by what al-Ḥāfiẓ Abū Shaykh al-Aṣbahānī relates in his work on the stipulations for the dhimmīs. Through his chain of transmission he reports from Khālid ibn ʿArfatah:

“ʿUmar—may Allah be pleased with him—wrote to the provincial governors instructing them to clip the forelocks of the Christians and to forbid them from wearing the dress of the Muslims, so that they would be recognizable.”

Judge Abū Yaʿlā, discussing a case that arose in his own time, stated:

“The dhimmīs are commanded to wear the distinguishing garb (ghiyār). If they refuse, it is impermissible for any Muslim to dye any of their garments for them, for no single garment has been specifically designated for such dyeing.”

I say: there is a difference of opinion here—are they themselves to be compelled to make the alteration, or, if they refuse, is the obligation upon us to enforce it? As for the foundational duty of differentiation itself, I know of no disagreement about it.

Abū Shaykh al-Aṣbahānī has likewise transmitted—again in his work on the stipulations for the dhimmīs and with his own isnād—that ʿUmar ibn