Is wearing clothes that have English writing a sin?

Wearing clothes produced by colonial or foreign states is not intrinsically forbidden simply because they come from an enemy country. However, if wearing them promotes a non-Islamic culture that conflicts with Islamic values, strengthens the economy of occupying powers, or causes economic harm to an Islamic state, then it is problematic and in some cases not permitted.

Your question about the ruling on wearing clothes with English writing is frequently asked. To answer accurately, several points must be considered.

Factors that affect the ruling

Content of the writing

• If the words contain obscene, offensive, or insulting meanings, wearing such clothing is forbidden.

• If the text is advertising a product or brand, the ruling depends on the nature of that product or brand. Wearing advertising for something that is forbidden in Islam is itself forbidden.

The wearer’s intention

• If the person intends, by wearing the garment, to promote a foreign (non-Islamic) culture or to insult sacred values, that is forbidden.

The effect on others

• If wearing the clothing causes fitna (social discord) or promotes immoral behavior, it is forbidden.

Wearing clothing resembling non-believers

(Brief mention in the original: this is a related concern and should be judged according to context and local scholarly opinion.)

Opinions of the religious authorities

Scholars differ on this issue. Some hold that wearing clothes with English text is not forbidden by itself unless one of the negative conditions above is present. Others advise greater caution and recommend avoiding such clothing when possible.

In general, no single blanket ruling can cover all garments with English writing — each case should be examined on its own merits and circumstances. Recommended practical steps:

• Examine the content of the writing carefully.

• Clarify your intention in wearing the clothing.

• Consider the social impact of wearing it.

• If in doubt, ask your own marja‘ (religious authority) for guidance.

Important notes

• If the writing insults Islamic sacred things or the beliefs of others, wearing it is forbidden.

• Do not copy others just because they wear such items.

• Ultimately, our choice of clothing should aim to gain God’s pleasure and to bring peace to ourselves and those around us.