Why Muslim Men Don’t Wear Gold: Faith, Identity, and Simplicity in Islam

Islam offers clear guidance on every aspect of life, from dietary laws to dress codes. One of the lesser-discussed yet significant rulings concerns gold — specifically, that Muslim men are forbidden from wearing it, whether it’s a ring, chain, or any form of adornment.

Despite the staggering wealth in many Arab countries — where billionaires drive gold-plated cars, fly in private jets, and even install gold-plated bathroom fixtures — the men themselves refrain from wearing gold. This may seem paradoxical, but the reason is rooted deeply in Islamic teachings.

The Religious Basis

While the Quran does not explicitly mention a ban on gold for men, the Hadith literature — sayings of the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) — provides direct guidance. In Sahih Muslim, Hadith 2069, the Prophet said:

“Gold and silk are haram for the males of my ummah and halal for the females.”

This statement clearly defines the boundary: gold is permissible for women, but prohibited for men. Scholars interpret this not as a matter of fashion, but as a preservation of gender identity and promotion of modesty.

A Matter of Identity and Equality

Renowned Islamic scholar Sheikh Yusuf al-Qaradawi explains that while adornment is allowed in Islam, its expression varies between genders. “If a man wears gold,” he states, “he begins to imitate women, which is against Islamic principles.”

Mufti Abdurrahim Ahmed elaborates that Islam discourages men from over-adornment to prevent the erosion of masculine identity. “Islam aims to protect the societal roles of men and women. If men begin to behave like women, the balance of society is lost.”

Mufti Abrar Ahmed takes the argument further, suggesting that wearing gold also touches on economic inequality. “If the wealthy flaunt gold, it increases feelings of inferiority among the poor. Islam promotes simplicity and social equality — not luxury and class divide.”

Science and Health Perspectives

Beyond spiritual reasons, medical research also supports the Islamic ruling. A 2015 study published in the Journal of Health, Spirituality & Ethics found that gold particles can negatively affect sperm quality in men. Medical experts warn that prolonged exposure to gold may have biological consequences, especially on reproductive health.

Islam permits men to wear silver, iron, steel, or even diamond, as these are seen as practical and simple rather than decorative. Silver rings or watches, for example, are acceptable under Islamic law.

Simplicity as Strength

In Islamic teachings, a man is seen not just as the provider but also the moral and social guardian of his family. Luxury and ostentation, it is believed, distract from these responsibilities. Instead, simplicity is championed as a virtue — a reflection of inner strength, discipline, and humility.

Even the wealthiest Arab sheikhs, who own extravagant possessions, respect this rule. While their wealth might be measured in tons of gold, they refrain from wearing it, understanding that character — not jewelry — defines true worth.

As the Prophet Muhammad once said, true richness is not having many possessions but being content with oneself. In this light, the real “gold” a man should carry is in his character, not around his neck.