Question:
Asalam alaikum,
I was just wondering whether it is acceptable or not acceptable to wear a short sleeved t-shirt whilst reading salat. I know that during hajj or Umrah a man is required to wear a cloth which does not cover one arm. Could you please resolve this issue for me.
Jazak allah
Answer:
wa `alaykum salam,
It is disrespectful although not forbidden, as a matter of fact Salat is acceptable being offered with short sleeved t-shirt. However, we are to read between the lines. Our respected shaykhs teach us to think over every verse in the Noble Qur’an and not stay just on the surface. Look at this verse (Ayah):
O Children of Adam! Wear your beautiful apparel at every time and place of prayer: eat and drink: But waste not by excess, for Allah loveth not the wasters. (Surat al-`Araf, 7:31)
Do we go to a wedding in our t-shirts, to an interview, etc.? No, we don’t. Then why do we tend to present ourselves before Allah with less care?
Umra and Hajj have specific instructions as they are to remind us of our death when we will be dressed in Kafans – white fabric similar to Ihrams.
Imam Senad Agic
Head Imam (IABNA)
The Islamic Association of Bosniaks in North America
American Islamic Center – Chicago
