The Book of Adornment - Sunan an-Nasa'i 5047

"I heard the Messenger of Allah [SAW] say: 'Whoever does not take from his mustache, he is not one of us.'"

Textual Analysis

The phrase "take from his mustache" refers to trimming and shortening the mustache hair, ensuring it does not cover the upper lip or extend beyond its boundaries.

The declaration "he is not one of us" indicates the gravity of neglecting this sunnah, suggesting a distancing from the complete practice and spiritual fellowship of the Muslim community.

Juridical Ruling

Scholars consider trimming the mustache to be either wajib (obligatory) or sunnah mu'akkadah (emphasized tradition), with the majority viewing it as highly recommended at minimum.

The mustache should be trimmed regularly, with some scholars specifying it should not extend beyond the edge of the upper lip.

Wisdom and Benefits

This practice promotes cleanliness (taharah) and neatness in appearance, distinguishing Muslims in their physical presentation.

It prevents food and drink from being contaminated by mustache hairs and facilitates proper purification for prayer.

The practice serves as an outward manifestation of inward submission to Divine commandments.

Implementation

The mustache should be trimmed using scissors, a trimmer, or similar instrument, with scholars differing on whether shaving it completely is preferable to merely shortening it.

The recommended frequency varies among scholars, ranging from every Friday to every forty days, with general consensus on regular maintenance.