Question:
Dear Brother/Sister
I am intending to perform UMRAH in a couple of weeks. I have a small black tattoo on my right arm that I had done long time back. I am trying to remove it permanently but it is going to take time.
1. Can I perform the Umrah with the tattoo on my body since it would be visible on the right arm?
2. Can I hide by a bandage or something?
3. Will anyone object to it?
4. Will anyone object to the bandage if I hide it?
I would be grateful if you could send me a reply since it is very important for me before going to the holy place.
Thank you.
Wassalaam
Answer:
Performing Umrah with a tattoo on the body is permissible. If the tattoo is of an inanimate object than it is not necessary that it be covered. If however the tattoo is of an animate object, it will be advisable to cover it up with a bandage. Should anyone raise any objections to your actions, explain your situation to them and tell them that you consulted the Ulamaa and this is what they recommend.
And Allah Ta’ala knows best
Mufti Muhammad Ashraf
Darul Iftaa
Jameah Mahmoodiyah
Springs
28 June 2007
12 Jumaaduth Thaani 1428
This Q&A was indexed in 2012 from the website of Jameah Mahmoodiyah, South Africa. The original website no longer exists.