Imam Shafee and trimming the beard

Fatwa No: 87964

Fatwa Date:14-6-2004 - Rabee' Al-Aakhir 26, 1425

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Question

Is it true that Imam Shafiee allowed the trimming of the beard more than one hand
fist?

Answer

Praise be to Allah, the Lord of the Worlds; and may His blessings and peace be upon
our Prophet Muhammad and upon all his Family and Companions.

We did not find any clear saying of imam Al- Shafii that allows cutting from the
beard what exceeds a fist in length. However, it is reported from him that cutting
what exceeds the length of a fist is likable in hajj. He said: "I love the practice
of one who trims his beard and mustache for the sake of Allah." If one does not do
so, nothing is due on him, since rites of Hajj are related to the hair of the head
instead of the hair of the beard.

In fact, Muslim scholars have various opinions regarding trimming what exceeds the
length of a fist. Some permit it as reported from Ibn Omar, Abu Hurairah and some
Tabi'een who used to do so.

Imam al- Shafii and Ibn Seereen favored this practice, while other scholars do not
permit cutting any part of the beard, regardless of its length. Al-
Hasan and Qatada disliked cutting what exceeded a fist.

Imam Al-Nawawi a Shafii scholar says: "The most correct opinion is that cutting
beard is definitely dislikeable."

Allah knows best.