When is imitation detested (makrooh), and when is it forbidden (haram)?

The objectives of Islamic law (Sharia) in prohibiting imitation of disbelievers can be understood by scrutinizing religious texts. Imitation of them in their religion may be forbidden, and it may reach the level of disbelief (kufr) if it is an absolute imitation. In certain cases, it may be disliked (makruh).

Shaykh al-Islam Ibn Taymiyyah clarified that the command for conformity or divergence may be due to an inherent benefit in the act itself, or merely for the sake of conformity or divergence. An act may contain a benefit or harm even if it is devoid of conformity or divergence. Consequently, conforming to them is an indication of harm, and diverging from them is an indication of benefit.

The hadith, "Whoever imitates a people is one of them," indicates the prohibition of imitating them. It may necessitate the disbelief of the imitator if the imitation is absolute, or if it pertains to a matter of the rituals of disbelief and disobedience. Imitation includes performing an act solely because they performed it, or following them for a specific purpose. However, if one performs it without intending imitation, it is not considered imitation unless it serves as a means to that end.