Henna in Islam

Figure 1.12 - Sayeed, F., (2019). Traditional Moroccan wedding henna.

Henna is a dye that is made form the Lawsonia Inermis plant, and is used as a natural stain for fabric (see fig. 1.13), hair, nails and skin. It was used by many ethnic groups across the world for its healing, spiritual and decorative qualities. Contemporary henna is used all over the world most commonly as decoration on the skin. Pictured in figure 1.12 is a traditional Moroccan style bridal henna applied by Farah Sayeed from the Netherlands.

Figure 1.13 - De Vloo, G., (2009) Schilderen Met Henna. Cotton fabric dyed with henna.

Although henna is not mentioned in the Quran, it is used in the majority of Islamic countries during rituals. There are, however, twenty-two Ahadith (authenticated sayings of the Prophet Muhammad) that have been recorded regarding the use of henna. Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) spoke of henna in relation to the following: Men using it to colour their beards, it's medical properties, using it to explain the colour of spoiled water, and on five occasions he spoke of its decorative use for females only (Sienna, N., 2011:para 1).

Looking at henna from different ethnic groups I have found some common characteristics:

1. Most designs make use of either arabesque or geometric patterns.  
2. Henna was not used to create animated figures. This might tie back to aniconism.

Figure 1.14.1 - Adams, Z., (2019) Henna design showing arabesque pattern.

Figure 1.14.2 - Adams, Z., (2017) Henna design showing geometric pattern