How must Dhimmis distinguish themselves from Muslims regarding clothing?

General Chapter

Al-Mughni

Book of Jizya

Book 55 · Issue 5 · Bab 1

Open in Qurani

Primary text

Dhimmis must wear clothing whose color distinguishes them from the general Muslim populace. For Jews, this involves wearing a yellowish color (al-'Usali), and for Christians, a dark color (al-Adkan or al-Fākhti). This distinction must be evident in at least one garment to establish difference. They must further wear a distinguishing girdle (Zunnār) over their clothing if Christian, or use another marker, such as a piece of cloth of contrasting color attached to their turban or cap. For identification in public baths, they must wear a lead or iron seal, or a bell, around their necks. Their women must wear colored garments and wear the girdle underneath their clothing, and also be sealed around the neck.

Supporting text

They are not prohibited from wearing fine clothes, turbans, or cloaks, because differentiation is sufficiently achieved through the distinctive garment color and the girdle.