Is it permissible for me to apply henna to my palms on my wedding night? It is a tradition in the place where I live. Please advise!

All perfect praise be to Allaah, the Lord of the worlds. I testify that there is none worthy of worship except Allaah and that Muhammad, sallallaahu ‘alayhi wa sallam, is His slave and Messenger.

Using henna is recommended for women. However, a man should not use it unless it is for medicinal purposes. The use of it by men for other purposes involves imitation of women, and it is no obscurity that a severe warning was handed down concerning this. It was narrated on the authority of Ibn ‘Abbaas that he said: "The Messenger of Allaah, sallallaahu ‘alayhi wa sallam, cursed men who imitate women and women who imitate men." [Al-Bukhari]

You are not permitted to use henna under the argument that it is a tradition in the place where you live. Following a tradition which contravenes the religion of Allaah Almighty is vain. So, you have to give up this matter in order to avoid the consequent threat. Also, you should be a role model for those who want to avoid doing what Allaah Almighty has forbidden. You will receive a reward similar to that of all those who act like you and you will also be rewarded for helping to eliminate this heinous innovation.

Allaah Knows best.