48/64. Chapter:
Sunan an-Nasai 5241 — The Sunnah of Dyeing Hair
The Command to Dye the Hair
Hadith About Dyeing Hair: Be Different in a Clear Sunnah Way
Sunan an-Nasai : 5241
Sunan an-NasaiHadith Number 5241
أَخْبَرَنَا إِسْحَاقُ بْنُ إِبْرَاهِيمَ، قَالَ حَدَّثَنَا سُفْيَانُ، عَنِ الزُّهْرِيِّ، عَنْ أَبِي سَلَمَةَ، وَسُلَيْمَانَ بْنِ يَسَارٍ، أَنَّهُمَا سَمِعَا أَبَا هُرَيْرَةَ، يُخْبِرُ عَنْ رَسُولِ اللَّهِ صلى الله عليه وسلم قَالَ " إِنَّ الْيَهُودَ وَالنَّصَارَى لاَ يَصْبُغُونَ فَخَالِفُوهُمْ " .
Abu Hurairah narrated that : The Messenger of Allah [SAW] said: "The Jews and the Christians do not dye their hair, so be different from them."
Reference : Sunan an-Nasa'i 5241In-book reference : Book 48, Hadith 202English translation : Vol. 6, Book 48, Hadith 5243
Summary of Sunan an-Nasai Hadith 5241
This hadith about dyeing hair records a direct statement from the Messenger of Allah [SAW]. He said that the Jews and Christians do not dye their hair, so Muslims should be different from them. The main teaching in the text is about outward distinction through hair dye. The hadith does not discuss every detail of color, method, or personal case, so the explanation should stay with what is stated. In simple terms, it points to a Sunnah practice linked to appearance and identity. A Muslim's grooming is not only about looking neat. It can also show care for the guidance of the Prophet [SAW] when the practice is based on his instruction.
What we learn from this hadith
- The Prophet [SAW] instructed Muslims to be distinct in this matter of hair dye.
- Grooming can carry a religious meaning when guided by the Sunnah.
- The hadith links hair dye with Muslim identity in appearance.
- The text gives a general command without listing every dye color.
