Piercing, like bitmojis or cryptocurrency, sparks debates within the Muslim community. Piercing in particular, can be Haram in certain contexts and Halal in others. Wearing jewelry entirely depends on its purpose. In this text, let’s discover together, is piercing Haram?

Is piercing really Haram?

In certain cases, piercing may not be allowed, as it is considered a violation of physical integrity: it is similar to tattoos which are also Haram. The body is a creation of Allah, thus perfect. Normally, alteration is not permitted. The purpose of jewelry is to embellish the body, but it does not need it. This is the basis on which the prohibitions of piercing are based.

Although the pain is temporary, the act can still be considered torture or self-mutilation. This is prohibited by Islam. Furthermore, the Muslim religion encourages practitioners to not imitate or resemble non-Muslims in their fashions, lifestyles, etc. Piercing is clearly a Western practice. However, in other cases, piercing can be halal, and how?

What are the permissions around piercing?

However, not all piercings are frowned upon by Islam. It is still possible to adorn oneself with jewelry.

• The earlobe piercing presents no problem, as on this part of the body, wearing jewelry is common practice since the time of revelation. Moreover, the wives of Muhammad all wore jewelry in their ears, such as earrings, so these adornments are allowed.
• However, as for nose piercing, some people claim that it is an unnecessary violation of Allah’s creation. On the other hand, some people believe it is a piercing inherited from a millennia-old tradition, therefore, it is not haram.
• As for belly button piercing, it is all a matter of morals. It can be very sexualizing if exposed, thus forbidden. It can also be considered a tradition in certain cultures around the world; in this case, one can have it done, as long as it is not shown and kept for oneself and one’s spouse.

These are all the things you need to know about piercing in the world of Islam. In summary, not all piercings are necessarily Haram. Indeed, they depend on the intention of the individual.