Decorating brides car during weddings
In the name of Allah, the most Beneficent, the most Merciful.
Answer
The wedding ceremony and celebrations should be kept as simple as possible. Saaidah Aaisha Radiallahu Anha narrates that the Prophet of Allah Sallallahu Alahi Wasalam; has said; “The most blessed wedding is the one with the least expenses.” (Mishkaatul Masabeeh)
With regards to your question if excessive decoration is avoided on the car and it is slightly decorated then it would be allowed, although preferable to avoid.
Some may argue that there is an element of imitation with the disbelievers in such an action. The truth of the matter lies in the definition of imitation of the disbelievers. Mufti Taqi Uthmani (DB) says “Imitation is (a word) used for the one who directs himself of his own accord, to a specific group in order to imitate them and belike them.”
The meaning of this definition is that a person does something with the intention of imitating the disbelievers. For example, a person has a particular hairstyle with the aim to copy a football player etc…
Also another aspect of imitation is to wear something, which is unique with the non-Muslims like wearing a cross. (Taqrir Tirimizi p.331 v.2)
The slight decoration of the car or the wearing of a necklace of flowers is not done to imitate the disbelievers and nor something unique with the non-Muslims.
Molana Ashraf Ali Thanwi (RA) was asked that if a person residing in London and dresses in a shirt and pants does this count as imitation of the non Muslims? He replied by saying this is not considered imitation because in London, such dresses is not thought of as something extrinsic to the land. Rather, everyone wears such clothing. If over here (in India) coats and pants became customary then it would not be forbidden here also.” (Tuhfatul Ulama p.130 v.2)
Only Allah Knows Best
Mohammed Tosir Miah
Darul Ifta Birmingham
