that the Messenger of Allah (ﷺ) ordered trimming the mustache and leaving the beard to grow.
Sharh of Hadith from Chapters on Manners
This narration from Jami' at-Tirmidhi (Hadith 2764) establishes two fundamental components of Islamic grooming etiquette: trimming the mustache and preserving the beard.
Legal Ruling and Wisdom
The majority of classical scholars consider growing the beard to be wajib (obligatory) for men, based on the clear command in this and other authentic narrations. The mustache trimming prevents interference with eating, drinking, and purification rituals while maintaining cleanliness.
Distinction from Other Nations
Imam al-Tirmidhi and other muhaddithun note that this practice distinguishes Muslims from the polytheists and People of the Book, who typically shaved their beards and grew long mustaches. Thus, it serves as an outward manifestation of Islamic identity.
Scholarly Consensus
The four Sunni madhahib agree upon the obligation of maintaining a beard, differing only in details regarding its minimum length. The Hanafis consider a fistful as the minimum, while others focus on the general command to let it grow naturally without specification.