"Whoever sees the new crescent of Dhul-Hijjah and wants to offer a sacrifice, let him not remove any of his hair or nails until he has offered the sacrifice."
The Book of ad-Dahaya (Sacrifices) - Sunan an-Nasa'i 4361
"Whoever sees the new crescent of Dhul-Hijjah and wants to offer a sacrifice, let him not remove any of his hair or nails until he has offered the sacrifice."
Textual Analysis
This hadith establishes a prohibition for one intending to perform udhiyah (sacrificial offering) from removing any hair or nails upon sighting the crescent of Dhul-Hijjah until after the sacrifice is completed.
The phrase "wants to offer a sacrifice" indicates this ruling applies specifically to those who have formed the intention (niyyah) to perform the ritual sacrifice.
Juridical Ruling
According to the majority of scholars, this prohibition is considered recommended (mustahabb) rather than obligatory. The one who removes hair or nails is not sinful but has missed out on the recommended practice.
The wisdom behind this prohibition is to maintain the completeness of one's body for the sacrifice, as the entire body will be seeking reward from Allah through this act of worship.
Scope and Application
The prohibition applies to all body hair and nails, including trimming, cutting, plucking, or any form of removal.
If one removes hair or nails out of necessity (such as medical treatment or removing harmful substances), most scholars permit this without invalidating the recommended practice.
The prohibition ends immediately after performing the sacrifice on Eid al-Adha day.
Scholarly Consensus
Imam Ahmad, Imam Shafi'i, and many Malik scholars affirm this ruling as recommended practice based on this authentic narration from Sunan an-Nasa'i.
This ruling demonstrates the comprehensive nature of Islamic worship, where even seemingly minor acts are connected to greater spiritual purposes and rewards.