Kuala Lumpur - SEVERAL religious and cultural experts have voiced their concern over the growing trend among Muslims of using henna to “tattoo” their bodies, saying this is forbidden in Islam, although the use of henna is permitted by the religion.
Mingguan Malaysia interviewed experts who said the act of “painting” one`s body was wrong, particularly if the “tattoos” depicted animals or humans.
Perlis Mufti Dr Mohd Asri Zainul Abidin said the practice, which was a current craze among young Malays, mimicked unhealthy western culture, adding that since tattooing was prohibited by the religion, they resorted to using henna to paint their bodies.
“Even the use of the longer-lasting henna is prohibited because henna is only supposed to last for a short period of time. This trend certainly does not reflect Malay or Islamic culture,” said Dr Asri.
Cultural expert Prof Dr Siti Zainun Ismail said the use of henna freely today was an abuse of culture.
Source: thestar.com.my (11 Februari 2008)
