Is tattoo allowed in Islam?

In Islamic view, it is known that the human body is not own of the person but it’s only for God the creator. So, if someone wants to make a change in his body it is not allowed if there is no need. People belong to the creator, Allah says in surah Al-Baqarah “Indeed we belong to Allah, and indeed to Him we will return.”

What is tattoo?

Tattooing is considered as body decorating art means to prick the skin with a needle and inject kohl or some other substance to change the skin colour permanently.

Is tattoo haram in Islam?

There is a basic rule in Islam; that every permanent change in the body is forbidden except if there is a medical need like maintain some broken part or problems of teeth for example. Regarding to that rule, tattoo is considered haram, and who does that will be cursed. ‘Abd-Allaah ibn Mas’ood (may Allah be pleased with him) said: “May Allah curse the women who do tattoos and those for whom tattoos are done, those who pluck their eyebrows and those who file their teeth for the purpose of beautification and alter the creation of Allah.”

Moreover, it is discovered that making tattoo causes problems in the body like infections because of wounds. In addition, it can cause the transmission of infectious viruses to the tattooed person, such as hepatitis and HIV, especially due to the lack of cleaning. The inks and dyes used are also suspected of causing cancer. Especially since some tattoo centres use dyes that are not intended for human use. Rather, these dyes are used in painting cars or furniture. Allah says in the Quran in surah AL Baqarah “do not throw [yourselves] with your [own] hands into destruction”

What do I do if I have permanent tattoos?

Dr Mufti Menk says if it is easy to remove the tattoo, do it. If it hard or painful or has many problems, just repent to Allah. He will not be cursed for having that anymore. And people shouldn’t rule on the one who had made tattoo and then regretted and repented.

Good choice

If someone likes to make adornment on his body, he has a choice to use henna or kohl on the skin. But the woman has not to made the decoration shown for an unrelated man.  

References

Islam Question & Answer, Are Tattoos Haram in Islam? , Ruling on tattooing in Islam

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