Mufti Menk opens by warning that he is about to address a very sensitive topic, then describes multiple recent divorce cases in which one spouse sought to end the marriage because their partner looked nothing like they had appeared during courtship. He identifies makeup as the cause and notes that he has heard this directly from women, framing the issue as one with no simple answer. He poses a direct question to his live audience: does a future spouse have the right to request a pre-marriage meeting with no makeup at all? He includes both genders in the question, noting that men also use makeup today and that equality arguments exist for this practice. He observes that the live audience has already answered the question but that online responses may be more mixed. He clarifies the Islamic ruling: makeup is not forbidden, and Muslims should be proud of their natural appearance. Touching up in moderation is permitted. However, in the specific context of marriage — a lifelong commitment — there is a distinct right for both parties to know what their future spouse genuinely looks like. He does not pronounce a definitive ruling but frames the question as one that deserves open discussion and that listeners should reflect on for themselves.
