The Book of Sacrifices - Sahih Muslim 1977 d

"If anyone of you intends to offer sacrifice he should not get his hair cut or nails trimmed."

Commentary on the Prohibition

This noble hadith establishes a sacred state for those intending to perform Udhiyah (sacrificial offering) during the days of Dhul-Hijjah. The prohibition begins with the commencement of the first ten days, or according to the soundest opinion, from the sighting of the crescent of Dhul-Hijjah until after the sacrifice has been performed.

The wisdom behind this prohibition is to resemble the pilgrim in some aspects of Ihram, drawing closer to Allah through abstention, and to preserve the entire body from any alteration so that it may be fully liberated from the Fire on the Day of Judgment. The one who refrains is awaiting the command of his Lord, demonstrating patience and obedience.

Scholarly Interpretation & Rulings

The majority of scholars, including Imam Ahmad and Ash-Shafi'i, hold that this prohibition is mustahabb (recommended), not wajib (obligatory). If one trims hair or nails, the sacrifice remains valid, but they have missed out on a great reward. The Hanbali school considers it makruh (disliked).

This ruling applies specifically to the one who is offering the sacrifice. It does not extend to his wife, children, or others for whom he is sacrificing, unless they themselves are the intended sacrificers.

If a person forgets, or trims due to necessity—such as a nail causing injury or hair impeding vision—there is no sin upon them, for Allah is Oft-Forgiving, Most Merciful.