Cutting-edge Perspective: Trimming the beard in Islam (pt 1)- Mufti Abu Layth

Summary

In this video, the speaker addresses the question of whether it is permissible in Islam to trim or shape the beard, particularly in the form of a goatee. Acknowledging the diversity of scholarly opinions, the speaker highlights a valid perspective that supports trimming or shortening the beard, emphasizing that this view has existed for centuries across different Islamic schools of thought. The speaker also discusses relevant hadiths and scholarly interpretations, clarifying that while some scholars advocate for a fist-length beard, trimming or maintaining a smaller beard is not prohibited. The content provides a balanced approach to this debated topic.

Takeaways

• 😀 There is a valid scholarly opinion that permits trimming the beard, even to a small or goatee-like length.
• 😀 The speaker acknowledges a difference of opinion among scholars, but affirms that trimming the beard is permissible according to many classical scholars.
• 😀 Scholars from various schools of thought, including Maliki, Shafi'i, and Hanafi, have supported the view that trimming the beard is allowed.
• 😀 The discussion clarifies that trimming the beard is not haram (forbidden), but is often considered discouraged (makruh) by some scholars.
• 😀 The classical Islamic jurist Al-Ghazali even argued that trimming the beard almost down to stubble is not makruh but permissible.
• 😀 The beard, known as 'lahiya' in Arabic, is traditionally defined as hair that grows on the chin and lower jaw.
• 😀 The hadiths regarding the beard mostly emphasize growing it and trimming the mustache, with various interpretations about the word 'effor' (to grow), sometimes interpreted as trimming.
• 😀 The hadiths narrated by Abu Huraira and others support the idea that Muslims should distinguish themselves from non-Muslims in terms of beard grooming, but there is no indication that the beard length is mandatory.
• 😀 Several well-known scholars and muftis, including modern-day scholars, have practiced and endorsed trimming the beard or even maintaining a goatee.
• 😀 The speaker stresses that this permissibility of trimming the beard has been followed by respected scholars throughout Islamic history, continuing into the present day.

Q & A

What is the main topic discussed in the video?

The main topic discussed is the permissibility of trimming or shortening the beard in Islam, including the allowance for styles like a goatee or a very short beard.

What is the ruling on trimming or shaving the beard in Islam?

Trimming or shaving the beard is not inherently forbidden in Islam. There is a valid difference of opinion among scholars, and many classical scholars have supported the view that it is permissible to trim the beard or even maintain it at a short length.

Are there different scholarly opinions regarding the beard in Islam?

Yes, there are differing opinions. Some scholars argue that the beard must be kept at a minimum length, such as a fistful, while others permit trimming or maintaining a shorter beard, based on various interpretations of Islamic texts.

Is there any evidence from hadith to support trimming the beard?

Yes, there are several hadiths that suggest the beard can be trimmed or kept short. These hadiths have been interpreted differently, with some scholars citing them as evidence for the permissibility of trimming or maintaining a short beard.

What is the significance of the term 'lay here' in the context of the beard?

The term 'lay here' refers to the beard that grows on the lower jaw and chin. Scholars agree that this area defines the beard, but there is some disagreement on how far it should extend.

Which scholars support the opinion that it is permissible to trim the beard?

Several classical scholars from different schools of thought, including the Maliki, Shafi'i, and Hanbali schools, have supported the view that trimming or keeping a short beard is permissible. Notable scholars include Al-Ghazali, Imam Nawawi, and modern scholars from Al-Azhar University.

Is there any difference between the terms 'growing the beard' and 'trimming the beard' in hadith?

Yes, 'growing the beard' in the hadith is often interpreted as a general recommendation to distinguish Muslims from others, rather than a strict command to keep the beard at a specific length. Some interpretations allow for trimming the beard, while others emphasize maintaining it at a minimum length.

What does the hadith of Abu Huraira say about the beard?

The hadith of Abu Huraira mentions that the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) said to distinguish Muslims from the Jews by keeping the beard and trimming the mustache. This is interpreted by some scholars to mean that trimming the beard is permissible as long as it maintains the distinction.

Can a goatee or a very short beard be considered permissible?

Yes, many scholars, including those from the Maliki school and modern scholars, have stated that a goatee or a very short beard is permissible. This aligns with the view that trimming the beard is allowed, as long as it is not completely shaved.

What is the position of scholars like Imam al-Ghazali on trimming the beard?

Imam al-Ghazali and other scholars have argued that trimming the beard to a very short length is permissible. Some even go as far as to say that it is not merely discouraged, but entirely permissible within the scope of Islamic law.