The Command to Oppose Polytheists

This hadith establishes the fundamental Islamic principle of opposing the practices of polytheists in matters of appearance and worship. The Prophet (peace be upon him) instructed Muslims to distinguish themselves from non-believers, particularly in natural dispositions like facial hair.

Scholarly Commentary on Beard and Moustache

The command to "let the beard grow long" (i'fa al-lihya) is understood by the majority of scholars as an obligatory act (wajib) for men. The beard is considered part of the natural disposition (fitrah) and a distinguishing characteristic of Muslim men.

"Clipping the moustache" (taqsir ash-sharab) refers to trimming it short so it doesn't cover the upper lip or interfere with eating and drinking. Some scholars recommend trimming it weekly, particularly before Friday prayers.

Legal Rulings and Variations

The Hanafi, Maliki, and Hanbali schools consider growing the beard obligatory, while the Shafi'i school regards it as strongly recommended (sunnah mu'akkadah). The minimum requirement is to let it grow naturally without shaving.

The variation in wording between "clip the moustache" and "cut the moustache down" indicates that the essential requirement is to keep it trimmed and neat, not necessarily to shave it completely.

Contemporary Applications

This teaching remains relevant today as Muslims maintain their distinct identity. Scholars emphasize that shaving the beard without valid reason is prohibited (haram) according to the majority opinion, as it constitutes changing Allah's creation and imitating non-Muslims.

Exceptions are made for medical necessity or when required for certain professions where facial hair might pose safety hazards, with scholars noting that the principle of necessity (darurah) applies in such limited cases.