and disliked. Some of these rulings are general, while others are specific; some are established in fulfillment of the right of Allah, Mighty and Majestic, and others in fulfillment of the wearer’s right.
What is obligatory in fulfillment of Allah Most High’s right is to cover one’s nakedness from the gaze of other people. This applies to everyone, men and women alike. What is obligatory in fulfillment of the wearer’s right is clothing that protects against heat and cold or wards off injury in battle, since one may not forgo such clothing and thereby harm oneself. This likewise applies to everyone, men and women alike.
What is recommended in fulfillment of the right of Allah, Mighty and Majestic, includes wearing an outer cloak when leading the prayer or going to the mosque to pray, for Allah, Mighty and Majestic, says:
“Wear your adornment at every place of prayer.” [al-Aʿrāf: 31]
It also includes fine clothes for Friday prayer and the two Eid prayers, for the Prophet, blessings and peace be upon him, said: “What harm would it do any of you to acquire two garments for Friday apart from his work clothes?” The same applies to similar matters. What is recommended in fulfillment of the wearer’s right is clothing with which people adorn themselves in one another’s company, without extravagance. The Prophet, blessings and peace be upon him, said of the man who took off his two worn-out garments and put on new clothing: “What is the matter with him—may Allah strike him down! Is this not better for him?” He also said to a man whom he saw looking shabby, after asking him, “Do you have any wealth?” The man replied, “Yes.” He asked, “What kind of wealth?” He replied, “All kinds.” He said: “Then let your wealth be apparent in your appearance.” Umar ibn al-Khattāb said: “I like to see a reciter of the Quran dressed in white.” He also said: “When Allah grants you abundance, be generous toward yourselves; let a man wear his garments together.” In both respects, this applies to everyone.
What is permissible is to wear whatever one wishes of linen, cotton, or wool, provided none of it is extravagant in relation to one’s circumstances. This too is general, not specific.
What is forbidden includes silk garments, for the Prophet, blessings and peace be upon him, said concerning Utārid’s suit of clothes: “Only someone who has no share in the Hereafter wears this.” He also said concerning silk and gold: “These two