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Intentional Imitation (Mukhnnash by choice) - Category-3 of LGBTQ Series

#1. Introduction

This category addresses those who are born as fully functioning males but choose to imitate women in speech, dress, or mannerisms—an act specifically cursed in the Hadith of the Last Prophet Muhammad (صَلَّى اللّٰهُ عَلَيْهِ وَسَلَّمَ). The ruling applies similarly to women who imitate men.

As narrated by Ibn `Abbas:

“The Last Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) cursed effeminate men (those men who are in the similitude—assume the manners of women) and those women who assume the manners of men, and he said, 'Turn them out of your houses.' The Prophet (ﷺ) turned out such-and-such man, and `Umar turned out such-and-such woman.” - (Sahih al-Bukhari 5886)

This clearly shows that intentional imitation of the opposite gender, when one is biologically male or female, is forbidden and cursed, regardless of reason or context.

A person who is born completely as a man and lives his life as a man, but then imitates women. This means he copies women in the way he walks, talks, and dresses. We often see this in many weddings and events, where people do it in the name of enjoyment, comedy, and fun.

A man is fully a man, but he will wear a sari, dance, act, smile, and speak like a woman. He behaves like a woman just to make people laugh and earn money to run his household.

But we know that the last Prophet, Muhammad (peace be upon him), said that there is a curse upon such people. So, he clearly warned against this behavior.

In the same way, you will also find the opposite case. A woman is completely a woman, but she imitates men. She copies men by wearing suits, pants, and acting like them. Even in some weddings, including in some Muslim homes, women do this in the name of enjoyment and comedy. They wear men’s clothes, dance, and sing, calling it celebration and happiness.

So whether a man imitates a woman or a woman imitates a man, this is described in hadith as “mukhannath” (those who imitate the opposite gender).

Today, you can also see this online. On YouTube, reels, and social media, there are many people doing this. Some are women copying men, and some are men copying women. Why do they do this? Because people want fun, comedy, and something new.

This has also become a way to earn money. Everyone knows that platforms like YouTube and Facebook pay creators, especially for reels and viral content. People do unusual, funny, and different things because such content spreads quickly. If something is repeated again and again, people lose interest.

That is why in comedy shows like The Kapil Sharma Show or in stand-up comedy, you often see such acts. I have even seen Muslims on social media where a man is fully a man, but he acts like a woman, sometimes even playing the role of a wife.

All of this has been warned against by the Prophet (peace be upon him).

This behaviour can also lead to something more serious, like transgenderism. Some people go further and change their gender completely through operations. For example, a man may feel like he is a woman inside and then undergo surgery to become a woman. Similarly, a woman may feel like a man and change herself.

From this perspective, this is considered a major sin and something very serious. It is connected to the topic of LGBTQ+ and transgender issues.

In the hadith, the word “mukhannath” is used, and there are very strong warnings about such people. You should read those hadith to understand better.^[1]

Be careful, do not get confused, because this term is used in two different ways:

First, there are those who choose this behavior themselves. They are fully male or fully female, but they imitate the opposite gender by choice called same word “Mukhanniseen”.

Second, there are people who are born this way. In common language in countries like India, Nepal, and Bangladesh, they are called intersex. In medical terms, they are called hermaphrodites. People also use words like hijdah, Xakkah, or kinnar. And in the hadith, the same word “Mukhanniseen” is used for both intersex people and those who choose to imitate the opposite gender.

These people are born with such conditions. They do not choose it. They may have characteristics of both male and female, or unclear biological traits. For example, outwardly they may look male but internally have female traits, or vice versa. Some may even have both types of biological features. We will learn more about it in the Category 4 chapter.

Such people existed during the time of the Last Prophet (peace be upon him), they exist today, and they existed even before. There is no sin upon them because they did not choose it.

So you must clearly understand the difference between these two:

1. One is by choice, where a person imitates the opposite gender.
2. The other is by birth, where a person is naturally created in that condition.

Both are mentioned in hadith with the same word “Mukhannath”, but they are not the same.

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#2. Intentional Imitation (Mukhnnash by choice):

This category includes those who are born as complete,  fully formed males but deliberately imitate women in their speech, clothing, and behavior. Such actions are clearly condemned in the teachings of the last Prophet, Muhammad (peace and blessings be upon him).

The same ruling applies equally to women who imitate men in their appearance, dress, or mannerisms.

It is reported by Ibn Abbas that:

“The Last Prophet Muhammad Mustafa (ﷺ) cursed men who imitate women and women who imitate men. He also said, ‘Expel them from your homes.’ The Prophet expelled a certain man, and Umar ibn al-Khattab expelled a certain woman.”

This narration is recorded in Sahih al-Bukhari (5886), one of the most authentic collections of hadith.

This clearly shows that intentional imitation of the opposite gender, when one is biologically male or female, is forbidden and cursed, regardless of reason or context.

Modern manifestations:

You will see, in Hindi web series, English web series, Korean web series, and other web series, as well as in movies, comedy videos, standup-comedies, pornography, and even some weddings—both in Muslim households and non-Muslim households—men will behave and dress like women, and women will dress and behave like men, which will be presented as funny. All of this has been cursed by the Last Messenger of Allah on such people.

On platforms such as YouTube (shorts), Facebook, and Instagram (reels), it has become increasingly common among both Muslims and non-Muslims.

Stand-up comedy shows and popular entertainment, such as the Kapil Sharma show in India and similar programs in other countries, often present such behaviour for laughs, social popularity and financial gain.

Warning:

Similarly, we see many comedy videos, long videos, and short videos on YouTube Shorts, Facebook Reels, Instagram Reels, long-form videos, and short-form videos, where a man will imitate a woman in clothing, speech, and behavior just to make others laugh and earn money. These things are very common on social media, and our children, Muslim children, also watch them. Even comedy shows, like Kapil Sharma, or stand-up comedies by Muslims or non-Muslimsn and many others who do stand-up comedy—imitate women, in speech, clothes, and behavior, even though they are men, just to make others laugh, entertain them, and earn money. These people have been cursed by the Last Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) in the Hadith, and they are called mukhannath.

Likewise, we also see them on trains and buses, where men imitate women and claim to be hijdah(intersex people, or hermaphrodites)—and deceive others to earn money.

Similarly, women as well imitate men—on social media, on the internet—by copying their clothes, speech, and manner. All of this has been cursed by the Last Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him). So, stay alert.

In our Muslim homes, this is often shown openly on big screen LCD/LED TV, but our elders, parents, also continue to watch it, thinking nothing will happen. However, a lot is being planted in the mind through cartoons, comedy—you never know how it will affect them. Because our parents, elders themselves, are stressed—they are dealing with so many things in their minds—depression, anxiety, stress—they themselves cannot handle it, so how will they tell others, their children, not to do this or that? In this way, you will see that often, as our Muslims become more liberal, they themselves are troubled, thinking, "What can we teach? What can we forbid?" They don’t have the strength to do so. So, keep this in mind.

Islamic perspective:

Despite the cultural normalisation in media or in society, all these acts remain cursed by the tongue of the last Prophet Muhammad (صَلَّى اللّٰهُ عَلَيْهِ وَسَلَّمَ). Intentional imitation of the opposite gender for entertainment, mockery, or personal gain is not permissible and carries spiritual consequences.

Key point:

• This ruling applies only to intentional imitation by choice, not to individuals born with intersex characteristics (biological variations), who are treated differently in Sharia(islamic law).
• The curse in the Hadith demonstrates the gravity of Mukhnnash by choice and warns against trivialising gender roles for entertainment or social gain.

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#3. List of Behaviours Involving Imitation of the Opposite Gender

I will first outline the behaviors that are considered imitation of the opposite gender and connect them with what I have personally witnessed.

1. Imitation of the Opposite Gender in Wedding Events

In this scenario, a man, at a wedding, imitates a woman purely for comedy and fun—by wearing a sari, using a woman’s voice, dancing, singing, and acting, along with other behaviors to make people laugh and enjoy. Similarly, a woman also imitates a man at a wedding—by wearing pants and a shirt, using a man’s voice, dancing, singing, and acting in many ways. These behaviors are seen in both Muslim and non-Muslim wedding events, in both urban towns and rural areas. In all these cases, you see singing, acting, and dancing as part of the imitation. All of these actions fall into the same category, which the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) condemned, and such people were declared blameworthy.

2. Parental Influence in Gender Imitation During Childhood

Second, when parents do this to their children while they are young, you will find that, sometimes, mothers and fathers dress their daughter from childhood in clothes that are typically meant for boys. And sometimes, for fun, comedy, or enjoyment at gatherings, a boy is dressed like a girl—wearing a frock, a dupatta^[2], or similar items—to make people laugh as a joke. All of these acts are part of the same sin, which the final Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) cursed. You will see such behavior in both Muslim and non-Muslim communities.

3. Children Imitating the Opposite Gender in School Programs

The third way is very common these days in schools. In many schools, especially in non-Muslim schools, it often happens that children participate in these programs where they have to imitate the opposite gender. In many programs, whether you see religious events, non-religious events, farewell, comedy scenes, non-comedy scenes, or even film acting, you will see children—boys—behaving like girls, and girls behaving like boys in this way.

4. Fourth: Common Practice Among Muslims Regarding Beard Shaving

Fourth, this is very common, especially among Muslims, where some men have beards but they do not keep them—they shave them completely. Those who shave completely are committing a major sin, and even those who just trim a little also commit a major sin. However, the better practice is to keep them as they are and only trim the mustache. These people have been placed in the category of “mukhannath” especially those who saved completely by scholars, based on the hadith in which the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) cursed them. The Sunnah is to leave the beard as it is and to trim the mustache. Second, the Sunnah of the Rightly Guided Caliphs, like Umar ibn al-Khattab and other companions, is that if your beard is more than a fistful, you can trim below that length.

Thus, it is better to leave it as it is and just trim the mustache. This is the first and the preferred method. Second, the Sunnah of the Rightly Guided Caliphs is that you take one fist (in Arabic, known as a "mukha") of your beard, and you trim everything below that. For details on beard rulings, you can look at Islamic rulings in many PDFs compiled by students of knowledge like Sheikh Abu Khadija. Direct PDF link: Microsoft Word - The Beard of the Muslim Man in Light of the Quran and Sunnah 4.0.docx | The Beard: A Distinguishing Sign of a Muslim Man and its Obligation in Light of the Quran and Sunnah, and the Sin of Trimming and Shaving the Beard (Article and PDF Book).

Saving the beard is very common nowadays, among Muslims. It is known among laymen ignorant muslims that keeping beard is  just a Sunnah—if someone does not follow it then it is not a sin, however this is grave mistake and incorrect , it is not just a minor mistake. It is a command. The final Prophet command it that’s why it is obligatory Sunnah. Leaving it out is a major sin. And if someone thinks that completely shaving it is permissible—then that person is a polytheist, an unbeliever. But if someone shaves completely but does make it permissible then that person is a Muslim but with weak faith. So, you should distinguish between these two. Also mocking the person who has beard by calling with different names and person regardless of what the person has intention is kafir-mushrik.

‘Umar ibn al-Khattab rejected the testimony of the person who plucked his beard. Al-Imam Ibn ‘Abd al-Barr said in al-Tamhid: “It is forbidden to shave the beard, and no one does this except men who are effeminate” i.e., those who imitate women. The Prophet (peace and blessings of Allah be upon him) had a thick beard (reported by Muslim from Jabir). It is not permitted to remove any part of the beard because of the general meaning of the texts which forbid doing so.”

5. The Role of Comedy Shows in Imitation of the Opposite Gender and Its Religious Implications

Fifth point: Comedy shows, like the ones we watch on The Kapil Sharma Show, which is a famous Indian comedy show, and many other comedy shows in Hindi, English, Urdu, and many foreign languages, show how a woman imitates a man in speech and dress so that people laugh, enjoy, and have fun. Similarly, a man also dresses up as a woman, mimics her, copies her, and entertains people by making them laugh and feel happy. You will find these comedy shows very common in Muslim homes, watched on TV and mobile. Non-Muslims also do this; Muslims also do this kind of act on comedy shows. So, this is very common, and it also falls into the same category, in which the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) cursed such people. And when we talk about a curse in the hadith or the Quran, it is a major sin—a big sin—and to seek forgiveness, one must verbally repent for it.

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6.Imitation of the Opposite Gender in Stand-Up Comedy Performances

Similarly, we see this in stand-up comedy as well. What is stand-up comedy? It is a type of comedy show where a person stands and performs jokes. Usually, you have to buy a ticket first, and then they do the comedy standing up, which is called stand-up comedy. It is very popular nowadays in India, as well as in America, the UK, and other foreign countries. Here too, people, a full-grown man, imitates a woman’s voice so that people laugh, enjoy, and have fun. This is also how they earn their livelihood. Again, in these cases, there is imitation and behavior of the opposite gender, which is cursed by the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him).

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7. Imitation of the Opposite Gender in Social Media and Entertainment Content

The seventh point is what we see on our mobile phones, smartphones, TVs, and in our homes. Our children also watch this—whether in Muslim or non-Muslim households. On platforms like YouTube Shorts, Facebook Reels, Instagram Reels, TikTok videos, and in both long-form and short-form content, a lot of material is presented in the name of comedy, fun, cartoons, dramas, entertainment, web series, and movies.

In this content, imitation of the opposite gender is commonly shown. In some cases, even homosexuality is shown—for example, men shown in romantic or physical relationships with other men, and women with women, including scenes like kissing in web series and movies. Along with this, imitation is also shown where a man behaves like a woman in clothing, speech, walking style, and gestures, and a woman behaves like a man in similar ways.

This has become very common on social media. Children watch it at home, and people often take it lightly as comedy and entertainment. However, these actions fall into the category that the final Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) cursed.

The reason this content is so widespread is because content creators earn money from it. Social media platforms pay through ads, sponsorships, and promotions. To go viral, creators often produce unusual, flashy, or shocking content. Even in some cases, inappropriate comedy is done in religious settings, where imitation of the opposite gender is used just to make people laugh.

Social media is very powerful—it can quickly make someone famous or bring them down. Human psychology works in a way that when something is shown repeatedly, it starts to settle in the mind. For example, keeping a beard is natural, but when people repeatedly see actors and celebrities without beards in movies and shows, they begin to think that is normal or ideal.

This is how repeated exposure influences thinking—whether something is good or bad. Just like practice makes something easier and more familiar, repeated exposure to certain behaviors makes them seem normal and acceptable. That is also how advertising works—it affects people deeply through constant repetition.

Because of this, ideas and behaviors related to imitation of the opposite gender, homosexuality, and even gender confusion can gradually spread. Sometimes we hear cases where a boy starts feeling attracted in ways that are not natural, or a girl feels she should have been a boy. These influences can grow over time.

So, it is important not to think that watching such content has no effect. Even if someone says, “We are just watching for fun, our children are not doing it,” it still impacts the heart and mind over time. Repeated exposure leaves a mark, so this is something to be careful about.

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8. Imitating the Opposite Gender by Claiming Intersex Identity for Money in Public Transport

Eighth point: This is something we often see in trains and buses—people who are biologically men but dress and behave as women, often pretend to be from "hijdah" or "kinnars,"  whom God created in a unique way even though. These individuals are fully biological men or women, but they adopt hijdah or kinnar roles to deceive people and earn money because earning money through asking is easy and not required much struggle and hardship. I have seen it especially in India—on trains and buses, it is very noticeable—yet, despite this, they earn money by performing these acts.

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9. Long Hair as a Form of Gender Imitation and Fashion Trends in Youth

Ninth point: Keeping long hair like a woman.

yes, in Islam, it is permissible to have long hair to some extent, such as up to the shoulders. However, beyond the shoulders, it is not allowed, as it imitates the disbelievers and also imitates the opposite gender. Sometimes, you will see young people doing this simply because of trends—they see it on social media or as a fashion statement and imitate it for their personal style.

With regard to the ruling on letting the hair grow long and tying it at the back of the head. Ibn `Abd Al-Barr (may Allah have mercy on him) stated that during his time, letting the hair grow long had become a characteristic of the foolish, and that people of knowledge and righteousness had turned away from this custom. This is what is well established among people in most of the Muslim countries.

Shaykh Ibn `Uthaymin (may Allah have mercy on him) said:

It is not part of the Sunnah to let the hair grow long, because the Prophet (blessings and peace of Allah be upon him) let his hair grow because the people of that time used to do that . Hence when he saw a boy who had shaved part of his head he said: “Shave all of it or leave all of it.” If it was the case that the hair should be left to grow long, he would have told the boy to leave it (and not shave any part of it).

Based on that, we say: Letting hair grow long is not part of the Sunnah, but if people customarily do that, then do it, otherwise do what the people customarily do, because something may be Sunnah in a specific sense or it may be Sunnah in a general sense . For example, if there is nothing to render a garment or a “look” prohibited, then in this case the Sunnah is to follow what the people customarily do, because the Prophet (blessings and peace of Allah be upon him) did it because he was following the custom of the people. So now we say: The custom of people nowadays is not to let the hair grow long. Hence our senior scholars, the first of whom we will mention among the senior scholars is our Shaykh `Abd ar-Rahman ibn as-Sa`di, and our Shaykh `Abd Al-`Aziz ibn Baz, and other shaykhs such as Shaykh Muhammad ibn Ibrahim and his brothers, and other senior scholars, do not let the hair grow long. That is because they do not think that this is Sunnah, and we know that if they thought that this was Sunnah, they would have been the most eager of people to follow the Sunnah. So the correct view is that this matter is to be based on what people usually do. So if you are in a place where people usually let their hair grow long, then do it, otherwise do not do it.” (Liqa’at Al-Bab Al-Maftuh, no. 126, question no. 16)

Based on that, reference should be made to what is customary among the people with regard to letting the hair grow long. In societies where the men do not let their hair grow long, one should not let it grow long, and tying it at the back of the head is even more reprehensible, because it is an imitation of women and immoral people.

Al-Baraa' narrated that the hair of the Prophet used to reach down to his shoulders and ear-lobes. [Al-Bukhari and Muslim]

Moreover, ‘Aishah narrated that the hair of the Prophet did not reach his shoulders but it exceeded his ear-lobes. [At-Tirmithi]

Besides,Ibn Majah narrated that the Prophet once had Ghusl (ritual bath) and he noticed that there was a small place which was not moistened, so he moistened it with the wet hair that was hanging over his shoulders. [Ibn Maajah]

However, it was not reported that the jurists determined a given length to the hair as to how long or short it should be. Therefore, it is permissible to keep one’s hair long or short provided that one does not imitate the non-Muslims or dissolute people by doing so.

Growing long hair is permissible for men as long as they are not imitating Kuffars, dissolute persons or imitating women. There is no certain limit legislated in Shariah for lengthening one's hair. However it is recommended to follow the Prophet Muhammad (Peace and blessing be upon him) in this case too.

Imam Ibn al-Qayyim said: 'The hair of the Prophet did not reach the shoulders but it exceeded the ear-lobes. Sometimes when it exceeded this length he would interweave it into four braids'.

Short Hairstyles for Muslim Women | Shaykh al-Albani

Is it permissible for a woman to cut her hair or take from it? || Shaykh Abdul Aziz Bin Baz

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10. Dubbing Across Genders as an Imitation of the Opposite Gender in Media Production

Tenth point: This is about dubbing—people who, as men, imitate a woman’s voice and do dubbing for various reasons. Often, they have made this their profession and earn money from it. In dubbing, whether it is for Islamic content or for web series, movies, and dramas made in the name of Islam—like "Diriliş: Ertuğrul," or on Sultan Salahuddin Ayubi—men dub women’s voices in Hindi, English, or Urdu. This is also considered imitation of the opposite gender. Dubbing happens in many forms in the industry—for example, in cartoons, where a man voices a child’s female character, or a woman voices a male character. In this way, dubbing also falls into this category, which the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) cursed for such actions.

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11. AI-Generated Voice Imitation as a Form of Opposite Gender Imitation

Eleventh point: AI dubbing voices—when a man generates an AI voice to imitate a woman, or when a woman generates an AI voice to imitate a man—this action is also considered imitating the opposite gender. It is very clear that both of these cases fall into this category, just as we have discussed before.

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 #4. Imitation of the Opposite Gender – General Principles

1. Core Principle from the Hadith

The foundation of this topic comes from the teachings of the Prophet Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him), who clearly warned against imitating the opposite gender.

It is authentically reported that:

• Men who imitate women
• Women who imitate men

are cursed, meaning such actions are considered serious and sinful in Islam.

This includes imitation in:

• Clothing
• Speech
• Behavior
• Walking style
• Overall mannerisms

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2. Three Categories of Gender-Related Actions

(i) Shared Actions (Permissible)

There are many things that are naturally shared between men and women, and these are allowed because they are not specific to one gender.For example, both sexes wear cotton socks, apply oil to hair and skin, drive cars, cook, wear watches, buy and sell goods, etc.

Examples include:

• Wearing common types of clothing (like socks, simple garments)
• buying and selling
• Using everyday items (watches, vehicles, etc.)

➡️ Principle: If something is not exclusive to one gender, it is permissible.

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(ii) Actions Specific to Men (Not Allowed for Women)

Certain behaviors and appearances are distinctly masculine, and women are not permitted to imitate them.

Examples include:

• Wearing clothing designed specifically for men
• Adopting male hairstyles or shaving the head
• Speaking or behaving in a masculine way
• Trying to fully resemble men in identity or role

➡️ Principle: Women should maintain their natural feminine identity.

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(iii) Actions Specific to Women (Not Allowed for Men)

Similarly, men are not allowed to imitate behaviors that are distinctly feminine. Those things which are specific to women and distinguish feminine behaviour are not permissible for men. For this reason, men are forbidden from wearing women’s garments, applying make-up (lipstick, blusher, nail polish, etc), altering their walk to resemble a woman and making feminine gestures with one’s hands, eyes or body, copying the hairstyles of women, singing, beating the duff, wearing jewellery, silk garments and gold, shaving the beard, etc. Also, parents should discourage boys from playing with girls’ toys and dolls, and discourage girls from playing with toys traditionally associated with boys.

Examples include:

• Wearing women’s clothing
• Using makeup or feminine beauty items
• Adopting feminine gestures, walking style, or voice
• Copying female hairstyles
• Wearing jewelry or items specific to women

➡️ Principle: Men should preserve their natural masculine identity.

Allamah Shaikh Ibn Bāz (rahimahullāh) said: “It is not permissible for a man to resemble the unbelievers or women. Likewise, the woman is not permitted to imitate or resemble the men or the unbelievers [in that which specifically identifies them and their behaviour]―not in fashion, custom, the way they talk or walk, or anything else. And it is not permitted for a man to imitate a woman in her fashion, behaviour, speech or the way she walks; and he is not allowed to imitate the unbelievers. The woman too is prohibited from imitating men in their dress, the way they walk and talk because Allah’s Messenger (salallāhu ʿalaihi wasallam) cursed the women who imitate [and seek to resemble] men and he cursed the men who imitate and resemble women.” (Source: Nūr ‘alad-Darb)

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3. Wisdom Behind the Prohibition

Islam teaches that men and women have different roles and responsibilities, and this distinction is intentional.

Allah says in the Qur’an:

• Men are given responsibility as protectors and maintainers
• Women have roles related to nurturing, care, and family structure

➡️ Key Idea:
 Each gender has its own fitrah (natural role and nature), and mixing or reversing these roles leads to imbalance.

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4. Impact on Family and Society

When these boundaries are ignored:

• Family roles become confused
• Responsibilities are neglected
• Relationships may become unstable

For example:

• A man abandoning responsibility weakens the family
• Role reversal can lead to conflict and imbalance

➡️ Principle:
 Maintaining clear roles helps preserve a strong family system and a stable society.

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5. Responsibility and Accountability

The Prophet (peace be upon him) taught that:

• Every person has a role and responsibility
• A man is responsible for his family
• A woman is responsible for her household

➡️ Principle:
 Each person will be accountable for their role.

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6. Natural Identity (Fitrah)

Islam emphasizes staying true to one’s natural identity:

• Men should embrace masculinity
• Women should embrace femininity

Going against this natural design:

• Leads to confusion
• Affects mental and social stability

➡️ Principle:
 Following one’s natural identity brings balance and harmony.

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7. Influence of Society and Media

Modern influences (media, entertainment, trends) often:

• Blur gender distinctions
• Promote imitation for entertainment or fashion
• Normalize behaviors that were previously discouraged

➡️ Principle:
 Repeated exposure can make wrong things seem normal, so awareness is important.

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8. Guidance for Believers

Believers are encouraged to:

• Follow authentic teachings
• Take role models from righteous people of the past
• Avoid blindly following trends that contradict their values

➡️ Principle:
 Staying firm on the correct path leads to success in this life and the hereafter.

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Conclusion

The general principle is clear:

• Imitating the opposite gender in what is specific to them is prohibited
• Shared actions are allowed
• Maintaining natural roles preserves balance in individuals, families, and society

Source: Hadeeth 6: It is harām for women to imitate men in clothing, behaviour, speech, etc, and the dangers of Radical Feminism. (40 Hadeeth on the Manners and Conduct of Women)

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#5. Imitation of the Opposite Gender Can Lead to Gender Confusion and Transgender Feelings

From the examples discussed so far—such as imitation in weddings, schools, comedy shows, social media, dubbing, and daily life—it becomes clear that repeated imitation of the opposite gender is not just a one-time act, but something that can gradually affect a person’s thinking and identity.

When a person:

• Constantly imitates the opposite gender in speech, clothing, behavior, and gestures
• Watches and consumes such content regularly (movies, reels, comedy, etc.)
• Engages in it for fun, entertainment, or profession

over time, this repeated exposure can begin to influence the mind and emotions.

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How This Influence Develops

Human psychology works in a way that:

• What a person sees repeatedly becomes familiar
• What becomes familiar starts to feel normal
• What feels normal can eventually become acceptable and desirable

So, when imitation is:

• Practiced frequently
• Encouraged socially (through laughter, praise, or money)
• Reinforced through media and entertainment

it may slowly lead a person to:

• Feel comfortable behaving like the opposite gender
• Develop confusion about their natural identity
• Experience thoughts or feelings related to wanting to be like the opposite gender

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Connection to Transgender Feelings

In some cases, this continuous imitation and exposure may:

• Strengthen identification with the opposite gender
• Lead to internal confusion about one’s role or identity
• Develop into what is described as transgender feelings

This does not happen instantly, but rather gradually over time through repetition and influence.

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Role of Environment and Media

As discussed earlier:

• Social media, comedy, films, and online content normalize imitation
• Children and youth are especially impressionable
• What is seen as “fun” or “harmless” can have long-term effects

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Key Principle

➡️ Repeated imitation and exposure can shape thoughts, habits, and identity over time.

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Conclusion

Based on all the previous points, imitation of the opposite gender:

• Starts as entertainment or imitation
• Becomes habit through repetition
• Can lead to confusion in identity and feelings

Therefore, it is important to be mindful of:

• What we do
• What we watch
• What we normalize

because all of these can influence a person’s mind, behavior, and long-term identity.

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6. Intersex Individuals Are Not the Same as Imitation by Choice

From the earlier discussion, it is important to clearly distinguish between natural conditions and intentional behavior.

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1. What Is Meant by Intersex?

Intersex individuals are people who are born with biological variations in their physical characteristics (such as reproductive or anatomical features).

➡️ This is not something they choose—it is a natural condition from birth.

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2. What Is Imitation by Choice?

In contrast, many of the examples we discussed—such as:

• Acting like the opposite gender in weddings
• Comedy shows and stand-up performances
• Social media content and entertainment
• Dubbing voices
• Dressing or behaving like the opposite gender for fun, money, or trends

➡️ These are intentional actions, done:

• For entertainment
• For attention or popularity
• For financial gain
• Or due to social influence

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3. Key Difference

The main difference is:

• Intersex condition → Natural, not chosen
• Imitation → Deliberate action, done by choice

➡️ Therefore, the two should not be confused or mixed together.

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4. Why This Distinction Matters

From what we discussed:

• Some people may pretend or claim certain identities for money or attention
• Others may genuinely have a biological condition

If this distinction is not understood:

• It can lead to misjudgment of people
• It can also create confusion in discussions about gender behavior

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5. Connection to Previous Points

In earlier examples (like public transport or media), we saw:

• Some individuals intentionally imitate for earning money or entertainment
• This is different from someone who is naturally born with intersex traits

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Conclusion

➡️ Not every case is the same.
➡️ Natural conditions (intersex) must be distinguished from intentional imitation.

Understanding this difference helps keep the discussion:

• Accurate
• Fair
• And clear from confusion

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#7. Always Remember: Feelings/Desires vs Actions

A very important principle to understand in this discussion is the difference between feelings (or desires) and actions. These two are not the same, and they must always be distinguished.

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1. Feelings Are Not the Same as Actions

A person may experience:

• Thoughts
• Feelings
• Desires

These can come into the mind without a person choosing them.

➡️ Having a feeling itself is not the same as acting upon it.

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2. Actions Are What a Person Is Accountable For

From what we have discussed so far, the focus is on:

• Imitating the opposite gender
• Behaving, dressing, or speaking in that way intentionally

➡️ These are actions, and actions are:

• Chosen
• Controlled
• Repeated intentionally

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3. Why This Distinction Is Important

If someone does not separate feelings from actions:

• They may think that having a feeling automatically justifies acting on it
• Or they may become confused about responsibility

But in reality:

• A person may feel something
• Yet still choose not to act on it

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4. Connection to Previous Points

Earlier, we discussed:

• Repeated imitation can influence thoughts and feelings
• Media and environment can shape desires over time

However:
➡️ Even if feelings develop, actions still remain a choice

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5. Self-Control and Responsibility

A person is expected to:

• Be aware of their feelings
• Control their behavior
• Avoid actions that go against their principles

➡️ This shows that self-control is a key part of responsibility.

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Conclusion

➡️ Feelings may arise without choice, but actions are always a choice.
➡️ A person is judged based on what they do, not simply what they feel.

Understanding this principle helps keep the discussion:

• Balanced
• Fair
• And focused on responsibility and behavior

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#8. Exceptions Do Not Change General Principles

I know a boy who is male and grows a beard, but has a woman's voice. He is not imitating the opposite gender by choice; he was born this way.

An important rule to understand in this discussion is that exceptions do not change general principles.

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1. Understanding the Exception

Sometimes, a person may naturally have traits that appear similar to the opposite gender. For example:

• A boy may be completely male
• His beard grows normally
• But his voice may naturally sound like a woman’s

➡️ In such a case, this is not imitation, because:

• He did not choose it
• He was born with it

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2. Difference Between Natural Traits and Imitation

Based on what we have discussed:

• Natural condition → Not chosen, part of a person’s makeup
• Imitation → Intentional behavior done by choice

➡️ Therefore, a person with natural traits is not blameworthy in the same way as someone who deliberately imitates.

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3. Why This Principle Is Important

If exceptions are not understood properly:

• People may wrongly judge individuals
• Natural conditions may be confused with intentional behavior

This leads to:

• Misunderstanding
• Unfair conclusions

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4. General Rule Still Remains

Even though exceptions exist:

• The general principle about avoiding imitation of the opposite gender still applies
• Rare cases do not cancel or change the overall rule

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5. Balanced Understanding

A correct approach is:

• Recognize and respect natural differences in individuals
• At the same time, understand that deliberate imitation is a separate issue

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Conclusion

➡️ Not everyone with opposite-gender-like traits is imitating.
➡️ Some people are simply created that way, and they are not at fault.
➡️ However, these exceptions do not change the general principle regarding intentional imitation.

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#9. What is the Islamic ruling regarding marriage to an individual who intentionally imitates the opposite gender, and whose behaviour is well-documented both online and offline?

Answer: I don’t know. Allah knows best.

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#10."What is the Islamic ruling on allowing someone into a masjid for obligatory prayers if they are known on social media for imitating the opposite gender?

Answer: I do not know; Allah knows best."

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#11."What is the Islamic ruling on driving away a family member who is known to deliberately imitate the opposite gender online?

Answer: I do not know; Allah knows best."

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#12. Does Allah Command the Killing of Those Who Change Gender?

Regarding homosexuality, there are hadith reports that mention severe death punishments. However, such punishments, according to Islamic law, are not carried out by individuals. They can only be implemented by a legitimate authority within an established Islamic legal system, with strict conditions and evidence requirements.

As for ruling on changing one’s gender, then I don’t know. Allah knows best.

#13. Quran, Sunnah & the Salaf

“Allah’s Messenger (salallāhu ‘alaihi wasallam) cursed the men who resemble and imitate women; and the women who resemble and imitate men.” (Al-Bukhāri, no. 5885)

“The Messenger of Allah (salallāhu ʿalaihi wasallam) cursed the man who dressed like a woman and the woman who dressed like a man.” (Abu Dawud, no. 4098 and authenticated by Al-Albāni)

Allamah Shaikh Ibn Bāz (rahimahullāh) said: “It is not permissible for a man to resemble the unbelievers or women. Likewise, the woman is not permitted to imitate or resemble the men or the unbelievers [in that which specifically identifies them and their behaviour]―not in fashion, custom, the way they talk or walk, or anything else.

And it is not permitted for a man to imitate a woman in her fashion, behaviour, speech or the way she walks; and he is not allowed to imitate the unbelievers.

The woman too is prohibited from imitating men in their dress, the way they walk and talk because Allah’s Messenger (salallāhu ʿalaihi wasallam) cursed the women who imitate [and seek to resemble] men and he cursed the men who imitate and resemble women.” (Source: Nūr ‘alad-Darb)

End of speech [From Shaykh Abu Khadija article: https://abukhadeejah.com/hadeeth-6-women-imitating-men-in-clothing-behaviour-speech-danger-of-radical-feminism/]

Allamah Shaikh Ibn Bāz (may Allah have mercy on him) was informed that some youth display signs of feminine behaviour. He advised that they should spend time with men until they learn (to be masculine) and they benefit from that, and the feminine inclination passes. He was also asked concerning the man who becomes a Muslim but before he embraced Islam he was a practising homosexual. Once he became a Muslim, he repented from that sinful un-Islamic behaviour. However, his soul desires homosexuality. Shaikh Ibn Bāz answered by saying: “He should cling to his repentance and all praise is for Allah.” (See Sharh Bulūgh Al-Marām, Kitāb Al-Hudūd, https://binbaz.org.sa/audios/125/) source: The LGBTQ Movement: Homosexuality and Islam: Understanding Muslim Attitudes To Homosexuality (Islam 5.7)

Ibn ‘Abbas (radiyallāhu ‘anhumā) narrated that the Prophet (salallāhu ‘alaihi wasallam) cursed the effeminate men, those men who assume the manners of women. He said:

أَخْرِجُوهُمْ مِنْ بُيُوتِكُمْ

“Turn them out of your houses.” Verily, the Prophet (salallāhu ‘alaihi wasallam) turned out such-and-such man, and ‘Umar turned out such-and-such woman. (Al-Bukhari, no. 5886) In a narration, he (salallāhu ‘alaihi wasallam) said to his wives: “You should not allow these effeminate men to enter upon you.” (Al-Bukhāri, no. 5887)

End of speech [From Shaykh Abu Khadija article: https://abukhadeejah.com/hadeeth-6-women-imitating-men-in-clothing-behaviour-speech-danger-of-radical-feminism/]

Ibn ‘Abbas said the Prophet cursed the mukhannaths among men and the women who imitated men, saying, “Put them out of your houses.” Bukhari transmitted it. [ Mishkat al-Masabih 4428] Note: The same word Mukhannas is also used for intersex(Kinner) people in hadith who are born like that. Here, the prophet cursed men who imitate women & women who imitate men.

Separate your children’s beds when they reach the age of 10.

It is not permissible for two who have reached the age of puberty to sleep together under one blanket. The Prophet (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) said: “Teach your children to pray when they are seven years old and smack them if they do not do so when they are ten years old, and separate them in their beds.” Narrated by Ahmad, 6689; Abu Dawood, 495; classed as saheeh by al-Albaani. [Taken from https://abdurrahman.org/2014/10/30/a-mature-child-sleeping-on-the-same-bed-with-his-mother-and-sister/]

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Sahih al-Bukhari 6834
Ibn Abbas narrated: “The Prophet (ﷺ) cursed the effeminate men and those women who assume the similitude (manners) of men. He also said, ‘Turn them out of your houses.’ He turned such-and-such person out, and Umar also turned out such-and-such person.”

Explanation: This hadith emphasizes that men should not deliberately act, dress, or behave like women, and vice versa. The Prophet (ﷺ) cursed those who intentionally defy the natural roles created by Allah.

Deliberate Gender Imitation is Cursed – This applies to those who knowingly and willingly attempt to change their gender or adopt the characteristics of the opposite sex in defiance of Islamic teachings.

Islam Does Not Promote Gender Alteration – While Islam acknowledges that some may struggle with identity issues, it does not allow or encourage changing one’s gender or promoting such behavior in society.

“Turn Them Out of Your Houses” – This does not mean harming them but rather discouraging the normalization of such behavior. It means that in an Islamic society, those who openly spread corruption should not be allowed to influence others.

Under Islamic Rule vs. Non-Islamic Rule

• Under an Islamic government, rules are implemented according to Shariah law, and punishments for actions that violate Islamic principles (such as deliberate gender alteration) are enforced by the state, not by individuals.
• In non-Islamic countries, these laws do not apply, and people are free to make their own choices. Muslims cannot enforce Islamic laws where they do not govern.
• Personal Responsibility – If someone changes their gender in a non-Muslim country, it is their own choice and Muslims have no authority to punish them. However, believers must uphold Islamic values and not support or promote such actions.

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Qur’anic Context

Surah An-Nisa (4:119)
“And I will mislead them, and I will arouse desires in them, and I will command them so they will change the creation of Allah.”
➤ This verse warns against Satan’s influence, where he tempts people to alter Allah’s natural creation, including gender identity.

Surah Al-Ahzab (33:36)
“It is not for a believing man or a believing woman, when Allah and His Messenger have decided a matter, that they should [thereafter] have any choice about their affair. And whoever disobeys Allah and His Messenger has certainly strayed into clear error.”
➤ Believers are required to follow Allah’s commands, and altering gender is an act of disobedience.

Surah Al-Ma’idah (5:50)
“Is it the judgment of ignorance that they seek? But who is better than Allah in judgment for a people who are certain [in faith]?”
➤ Human laws cannot override Allah’s rulings, but Muslims must accept that Islamic laws apply only in an Islamic system.

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Sayyiduna ‘Abdullah Ibn Mas’ud (radiyallahu ‘anhu) said: “Allah looked into the hearts of His slaves and found that the heart of Muhammad (sallallahu ‘alayhi wa sallam) was the best of all His slaves’ hearts. So He chose him for Himself and sent him with His Message. Then He looked into the hearts of all His slaves after the heart of Muhammad (sallallahu ‘alayhi wa sallam) and He found that the hearts of his companions were the best of all His slaves’ hearts, so He made them the helpers of His Prophet, fighting for the sake of his religion. So what the Muslims think is good, is good before Allah, and whatever the Muslims think is bad, is bad before Allah.”

Interpretation of “What the Muslims think is good is good before Allah”

With regard to the words of ‘Abd-Allah ibn Mas’ud (may Allah be pleased with him), “What the Muslims think is good is good before Allah”, this does not refer to things that go against Shari`ah but which may be deemed good on the basis of rational thinking. Imam al-Shafi`i (may Allah have mercy on him) said: “Whoever thinks something is good issuing a ruling.” It does not refer to when one person thinks a thing is good but the majority of people do not. Rather this phrase may be interpreted in one of two ways, both of which are sound:

• That what is meant is traditions and customs that do not go against Shari`ah
• That what is meant is the proof of scholarly consensus, for the Muslims are unanimously agreed that thinking a thing is good is consensus which counts as evidence. So this thing must be good before Allah as well. This is what is indicated by the words, “What the Muslims think is good.” (See al-Mabsut by al-Sarkhasi, 12/138’ al-Farusiyyah by Ibn al-Qayyim, p. 298)

These interpretations mentioned above are applicable if we take the words of Ibn Mas’ud (may Allah be pleased with him) as applying to all the Muslims in general. But from the context it seems that he is referring to the Companions of the Prophet (peace and blessings of Allah be upon him) only, and not others. What Ibn Mas’ud said was: “Allah looked into the hearts of His slaves and found that the heart of Muhammad (peace and blessings of Allah be upon him) was the best of all His slaves’ hearts. So He chose him for Himself and sent him with His Message. Then He looked into the hearts of all His slaves after the heart of Muhammad (peace and blessings of Allah be upon him) and He found that the hearts of his Companions were the best of all His slaves’ hearts, so He made them the helpers of His Prophet, fighting for the sake of His religion. So what the Muslims think is good is good before Allah and whatever the Muslims think is bad is bad before Allah.” (Narrated by Ahmad, 3418; classed as sahih by Shaykh al-Alaani in Takhrij al-Tahawiyyah, 530)

Whatever the case, it is not correct to quote the words of Ibn Mas’ud (may Allah be pleased with him) as evidence for thinking as good that which is forbidden in Islam, such as imitating the mushrikin.

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It was narrated that Abu Hurayrah (may Allah be pleased with him) said: The Messenger of Allah (peace and blessings of Allah be upon him) cursed the man who wears women’s clothing and the woman who wears men’s clothing. (Narrated by Abu Dawud, 4098 and classed as authentic by An-Nawawi in Al-Majmu`, 4/469 and by Al-Albani in Sahih Abu Dawud)

`Aishah (may Allah be pleased with her) said: The Messenger of Allah (peace and blessings of Allah be upon him) cursed masculinized women. “Narrated by Abu Dawud, 4099; classed as good by An-Nawawi in Al-Majmu`, 4/469 and as authentic by Al-Albani in Sahih Abu Dawud)

Ibn Al-Qayyim (may Allah have mercy on him) said:  

“Looking generates thoughts, then thoughts generate ideas, then ideas generate desire, then desires generate will, then the will grows strong and resolves to do the deed, and then the deed will inevitably take place unless there is something to prevent it. Concerning this it was said that patience in lowering the gaze is easier than patience in bearing the pain that comes afterwards.” (Al-Jawab Al-Kafi, p. 106)

How linked to, feminist: Hadeeth 6: It is harām for women to imitate men in clothing, behaviour, speech, etc, and the dangers of Radical Feminism. (40 Hadeeth on the Manners and Conduct of Women)

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Prohibition of Wearing Clothes of Fame, Opposite Gender, or Specific to the Other Sex​

Islam strictly prohibits three types of clothing:

① Clothes of fame and ostentation (shuhrah).

② Men wearing women’s clothing.

③ Women wearing men’s clothing.

① Clothes of Fame (Shuhrah)​

Hadith of Ibn ʿUmar (رضي الله عنهما):

من لبس ثوب شهرة فى الدنيا ألبسه الله ثوب مذلة يوم القيامة

“Whoever wears a garment of fame in this world, Allah will clothe him with a garment of humiliation on the Day of Resurrection.”

[Ṣaḥīḥ Ibn Mājah: 2905; Ibn Mājah: 3606; Abū Dāwūd: 4069; Ahmad: 2/139]

Explanation:

Clothes of fame are those garments that are noticeably different in color or style from common people’s clothing, attracting attention and causing the wearer to fall into pride and arrogance.

This prohibition does not include fine or neat clothing, but only such garments worn out of pride, show-off, or to stand out.

[Nayl al-Awṭār: 1/596]

The Prophet ﷺ also said:

لا يدخل الجنة من كان فى قلبه مثقال حبة من خر دل من كبر

“He will not enter Paradise who has even an atom’s weight of arrogance in his heart.”

[Ṣaḥīḥ: al-Ṣaḥīḥah: 1626; Tirmidhi: 1999; Ahmad: 1/451; Ibn Ḥibbān: 1455; al-Ḥākim: 1/26]

② Men Imitating Women in Clothing & Women Imitating Men​

Hadith of Abu Hurairah (رضي الله عنه):

أن رسول الله لعن الرجل يلبس لبس المرأة والمرأة تلبس لبس الرجل

“The Messenger of Allah ﷺ cursed the man who wears the clothing of women and the woman who wears the clothing of men.”

[Ṣaḥīḥ: Ṣaḥīḥ Abū Dāwūd: 3454; Abū Dāwūd: 4098; Ahmad: 2/325; Ibn Ḥibbān: 1455; al-Ḥākim: 4/194]

③ Hadith of Ibn ʿAbbās (رضي الله عنهما)​

لعن رسول الله صلى الله عليه وسلم المتشبهات من النساء بالرجال والمتشبهين من الرجال بالنساء

“The Messenger of Allah ﷺ cursed the women who imitate men and the men who imitate women.”

[Bukhārī: 5885, Kitāb al-Libās: Bāb al-Mutashabbihīn bi al-Nisāʾ wa al-Mutashabbihāt bi al-Rijāl]

• But, clothes that are common for both men and women are permissible like shocks, gloves, jackets, sweater, shoes and other things.

Conclusion:

• Wearing clothes that are distinctly for fame and arrogance is prohibited.
• Men are prohibited from wearing women’s clothing, and women are prohibited from wearing men’s clothing. But, clothes that are common for both men and women are permissible like shocks, gloves, jackets, sweater, shoes and other things.
• Any form of gender imitation in appearance is cursed by the Prophet ﷺ.

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