Removing the wife's hymen with the finger

Q 1: What is the ruling on beating drums and uttering cries of joy at weddings and on breaking the wife’s hymen with the finger?

A: It is commendable to announce the marriage and cries of joy take the same ruling as singing. However, it is prohibited in Shari`ah (Islamic law) to break the wife's hymen with a finger and it is a despicable custom that contradicts the guidance of the Messenger of Allah (peace be upon him) which indicates that the only manner of breaking the hymen is through sexual intercourse. This disgraceful act involves the virgin exposing her `Awrah (parts of the body that must be covered in public) in front of other women and the husband breaking her hymen in their presence. As for beating the Duff (a tambourine-like instrument without bells) at weddings, it is permissible for women but not for men, as a means of announcing the marriage. (Part No. 19; Page No. 117) May Allah grant us success. May peace and blessings be upon our Prophet Muhammad, his family, and Companions.