The Command of Moustache and Beard

This hadith from Sahih Muslim 259a in The Book of Purification contains two distinct injunctions: trimming the moustache closely and allowing the beard to grow naturally. The moustache should be shortened to the extent that it does not interfere with eating, drinking, or purification, while the beard should be left to grow as Allah created it, without excessive shortening or shaving.

Scholarly Commentary

According to classical scholars, trimming the moustache is emphasized to maintain cleanliness and hygiene, as a long moustache may trap food particles and impurities. The instruction to grow the beard distinguishes Muslim men from non-believers and represents following the natural disposition (fitrah) established by Allah.

Imam Nawawi comments that the beard should be left to grow fully, and it is prohibited to shave it completely. The minimum requirement is to leave it untouched for growth, while trimming excessively long portions that may appear unkempt is permissible according to some scholars.

Legal Rulings and Implementation

The majority of scholars consider growing the beard to be obligatory (wajib) based on this and other authentic narrations. The moustache trimming is also considered among the emphasized practices of the fitrah. These practices serve as outward signs of Islamic identity and adherence to the Sunnah of the Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ).