The Ruling on Men Using Henna

Question:
He also asks and says: If I am invited to a wedding, and when I go I find the groom using henna, is it permissible to accept this invitation, or should I return? Knowing that this reprehensible custom is widespread among us in Sudan, except for whom Allah has mercy?

Answer:
If this custom is well-known among you, you should advise the person and not refrain from accepting the invitation; because it is a custom they have become accustomed to, and they are unaware of its ruling. You should accept the invitation, advise your brother, and explain to him that it is not permissible to imitate women. If his use of henna resembles the practice of women, he should be advised of this, and he should be informed that it is obligatory to avoid imitating women. Do not leave his invitation, and accepting his invitation is for the sake of this thing he is unaware of, which has become widespread in his country and spread among his brothers, until he learns, until he is guided, and until he does not imitate women, neither in henna nor in anything else. Henna is a matter for women and part of women’s adornment, and men do not use it. If it is a custom for men, it should be abandoned, and it is obligatory to abandon it so that they do not imitate women in that. We ask Allah for guidance for everyone. O Allah, amen. May Allah reward you with good.