Playing The Role Of The Opposite Gender In A Skit

Question: Assalamu alaikum
Dear Respected Mufti,

I attend an all girls Muslim school. That being said we, the students are having an upcoming event for which there is a skit where one of the girls would be imitating and well carrying out the role of a boy, that is dressing, walking, talking etc. In my opinion this is incorrect because the rulings of the Shariah strictly prohibits imitating the opposite gender. But my teachers and fellow classmates are saying it’s just a skit. I would really appreciate it if you clarify this issue. Jazak Allah khair.

Answer: Assalaamu Alaikum,

The Ahadith have condemned this type of conduct, and even though it may be just a skit, the prohibition still exists.

While speaking about the prohibition of a woman who imitates a man, the Prophet (s.a.w) said, ‘Allah curses men who imitate women and women who imitate men.’ (Sahih Al Bikhari). In another tradition, the Prophet (s.a.w) said, ‘May Allah curse the masculine woman.’ (Abu Dawood). It means the woman who behaves like a man.

The Messenger of Allah (s.a.w) also said, ‘Allah curses a woman who wears men’s clothing and a man who wears a woman’s dress.’ (Abu Dawood).
One should pay attention to the words of the Prophet (s.a.w) and refrain from such conduct.

And Allah Knows best.

Mufti Waseem han.

12/11/2014