Makkah, Saudi Arabia – Sheikh Faisal Zuglool, the Director of Penckers Schools, and son of the founder of Daru Dawah Wal Irshad, the late renowned historian and linguist, Sheikh Mustapha Zuglool Sanusi has added a different voice to the practice of Muslims fixing gold or silver teeth during hajj in the Holland, arguing that it should be encouraged as part of a Muslim’s identity rather than being condemned.
Speaking with our reporter, Sheikh Zuglool explained that there is no strict prohibition in Islam against fixing gold or silver teeth during Hajj, a common practice among some pilgrims. “There is no strict prohibition on it in Islam,” he said. “The issue some scholars raise is the concern over riya (showing off), but if it is done with sincere intentions and not for the sake of flaunting one’s appearance, there is nothing wrong with it.”
He stated that the act could serve as deterrent to doing any bad deed as it could serve as a symbol of caution to some people.
Sheikh Zuglool provided an example of a pilgrim who had previously indulged in sinful behavior, such as drinking alcohol. However, this individual chose to fix a silver tooth during his current Hajj pilgrimage as a personal reminder to refrain from bad deeds. “He decided to fix a silver tooth to serve as a deterrent to doing anything bad. He felt that it would remind him to preserve his Hajj and stay righteous before Allah,” said the Sheikh.
“This is commendable. The intention is clear, which is to refrain from bad acts. So, if done with the intention of spiritual improvement, it serves as a reminder of one’s commitment to Islam, then it is not bad at all, in fact it will be rewarded.”
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The Sheikh further emphasized that the act of fixing teeth itself is not “haram” (forbidden). “It’s the intention behind the act that determines its value. If someone fixes his teeth with the goal of preserving his spiritual status before Allah, then so be it. The action is not haram, it is the intention that determines the reward or punishment,” he stated.
The practice of fixing a gold or silver tooth, Sheikh Zuglool explained, can help a Muslim maintain a dignified appearance and identity in the global gathering of Hajj, where millions of pilgrims from diverse backgrounds come together. “It contributes to the recognition of an individual as a Muslim,” he said. “In such a massive gathering, where people from different parts of the world meet, presenting oneself with dignity is essential. Islam values self-respect, and maintaining a presentable image is important, particularly during acts of worship.”
Moreover, Sheikh Zuglool highlighted the psychological and spiritual benefits of such practices. He noted that fixing a tooth could potentially help a pilgrim avoid sins such as backbiting, inappropriate speech, or even the consumption of alcohol. “When a person feels self-conscious or ashamed of their appearance, they may withdraw socially, leading to negative thoughts or behaviors,” he explained. “However, by restoring their confidence through such procedures, they can become more mindful of their behavior and maintain a stronger connection with their spirituality.”
While emphasizing the positive aspects of this practice, Sheikh Zuglool also warned against the dangers of riya (showing off). “If someone fixes their teeth with the intention of drawing attention or boasting, this could invalidate the spiritual benefits of the act,” he cautioned. “Riya can vitiate acts of worship, so it is important that the intention remains sincere.”
Sheikh Faisal Zuglool reiterated that the fixing of gold and silver teeth, when done with the right intention, can serve as a positive symbol of spiritual commitment and self-discipline. He encouraged pilgrims to focus on their internal intentions rather than external appearances, highlighting that the true value of any act lies in its alignment with the faith and sincerity before Allah.