Permanent tattoos are haram according to the majority of scholars, based on a hadith in which the Prophet ﷺ cursed those who tattoo and those who get tattooed. Henna and temporary tattoos that do not go under the skin are permitted. If you had a tattoo before, most scholars say you do not have to remove it if removal is harmful, and your prayers and wudu are valid.

Are Tattoos Haram? | Halal Check Online

Also asked as: “Can Muslims get tattoos?” · “Is it haram to get a tattoo?” · “Are henna tattoos halal?”

The evidence

The Prophet ﷺ cursed "the one who tattoos and the one who asks to be tattooed" (Bukhari and Muslim). Scholars link this to changing God's creation and causing harm.

What is allowed

Henna (mehndi)
Temporary stick-on or ink tattoos
Medical tattoos (e.g. for radiotherapy), which many scholars permit

If you already have a tattoo

Repentance is enough. Removal is recommended by some but not required if it is painful, costly or harmful. Wudu and prayer are valid because the ink is under the skin.

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The evidence

What is allowed

If you already have a tattoo

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