Beyond Hajj: pilgrims seek gold teeth as symbol of identity

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Photo: FotoNugget

By Hadiza Abdulrahman 

Every year, millions of pilgrims from across the globe converge on the holy Cities of Makkah and Madina, united in faith, prayer, and the search for spiritual renewal and salvation.

However, it goes beyond strictly Hajj Affairs, as many pilgrims use some of those leisure times to attain to some personal needs.

One of them was the passion for the golden or silver tooth, which was a heart catching piece of ornament for many pilgrims and could be accessed in the holy cities, despite its attendant cost.

To them, it is beyond an ornament, but a sparkling and gleaming signs of status, identity and a lifetime accomplished.

Photo: FotoNugget

To some, it’s often regarded as symbols of beauty, adding an attractive element to each smile and boosting confidence of the individual.

But this growing trend is sparking conversations. While many celebrate it as a sign of cultural pride, others question whether such adornment aligns with the spiritual essence and humility4 that Hajj demands.

The concerns were as a result of unfortunate development, where some pilgrims have fallen victims to fraud in the process of acquiring such dental enhancements.

Mrs. Fatima Shitta-Bey. Photo: Foto Nugget

Mrs. Fatima Shitta-Bey, a pilgrim, says she fixed her gold teeth simply because she loved them and believed they symbolized the fulfillment of her dream visit to Makkah.

She said “Some people may think putting this tooth is about showing off, but it’s not. It’s a symbol of my journey—something that speaks for me, especially to those who might doubt I’ve made the pilgrimage.”

Similarly, Hindatu Sani, another pilgrim from Kaduna State, said she had long desired to wear the gold teeth and was excited that her desire was finally fulfilled.

“I crossed the border into another country, so I had to get the tooth as evidence. I had always intended to do it even before coming. It makes me feel good and also serves as an adornment for my husband,” she added.

Commenting on the practice, Mr. Abdulwasiu Adebayo believed it was unnecessary, noting that while it might be cultural, it held no religious significance.

An Islamic cleric, Imam Ibrahim Afini emphasized that there was nothing wrong with wearing the gold or silver teeth, since it did not contradict any Islamic teachings.

Backing this view, another Islamic scholar, Sheikh Faisal Zuglool said in some cases, the gold teeth serve as a form of identification.

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