What is meant by altering Allah's creation, which is forbidden, and how do we differentiate it from permissible alterations, taking into consideration the permissibility of a nose made of gold and the prohibition of hair extensions?

Scholars have differed in defining the blameworthy alteration of Allah’s creation. The alteration of Allah’s creation can be categorized as follows:

1. That which the Sharia explicitly prohibits or permits: What is forbidden by Sharia, such as plucking eyebrows (nams) and tattooing (washm), its underlying reason is not to be sought. What is permissible or legislated, such as circumcision and nail-clipping, is permissible.

2. Alteration for which there is no specific text: Real alteration: This is forbidden due to the general evidence prohibiting the alteration of Allah’s creation, such as shaving the beard. Apparent alteration: If its nature confuses the observer, who mistakes it for real alteration, such as dyeing hair black, then it is equated with real alteration.

3. Alteration resulting from external intervention: As for alteration resulting from stimulating the body’s internal systems through medical means to restore their normal functions, it is not considered a forbidden alteration.

It has been previously explained that forbidden tattooing and hair extensions are prohibited, whereas dyeing hair and using henna are not considered the blameworthy alteration of Allah’s creation. It was mentioned that hair extensions due to hair loss are prohibited according to the Hadith.