Is winking (a wink) permissible in Islam?
The ruling on winking varies according to its intention. It is forbidden if intended to demean, mock, or show arrogance towards someone, or to insult and slander them. This falls under the Almighty's saying: "Woe to every backbiter, slanderer." It is also forbidden if intended for betrayal or treachery, as interpreted in the Almighty's saying: "He knows the deceit of the eyes." This was forbidden for the Prophet, peace be upon him, because it contradicts his perfection and status as a Prophet, and because his gestures are legislation. Winking is also forbidden if it comes from some immoral individuals as a sign for harassment or illicit communication. As for permissible winking, it is that which is intended to alert a child, friend, or any person to a mistake they are making, without embarrassing them in front of people.
Summarized from the full answer at Ftawy · reviewed Sep 2, 2026
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