Is it permissible to cover walls with non-figured hangings (curtains)?
General Chapter
Al-Mughni
Book of the Wedding Feast
Primary text
Covering walls with curtains that do not contain figures is permissible if done for a necessity, such as protection from heat or cold, as this is for a needed purpose, akin to covering a door or wearing clothing. However, if done without necessity, it is disliked (makruh). This dislike is sufficient grounds to refuse an invitation or refrain from accepting hospitality. This is evidenced by the report where Abu Ayyub al-Ansari refused food and refused to enter a house covered with a green tent (khaba'), stating he would not eat or enter because the walls were covered, implying disapproval of unnecessary adornment. Furthermore, a tradition narrated by Ibn Abbas and Ali bin Al-Husayn, and another by Aisha concerning the Prophet (peace be upon him), indicate a prohibition or lack of command regarding covering walls.
Supporting text
The covering of walls is disliked rather than forbidden (haram). This is the view of Al-Shafi'i because no definitive proof for its prohibition has been established, and it was practiced by Ibn Umar and during the time of the Companions. The dislike stems from the element of extravagance (israf), similar to excessive clothing or food. Some hold it is forbidden due to the explicit prohibitions mentioned, but the former view is preferable because the prohibition is not definitively established, and if accepted, it should be interpreted as dislike based on the aforementioned context of extravagance.