Shortening the beard out of fear of harassment in some countries

Question:
Honorable Shaykh, I ask for a dispensation regarding the shortening of the beard, as in some countries other than this one, a long beard is a primary cause of some harassment and troubles. This is on the basis that averting harm takes precedence over seeking benefit.

Answer:
No, my brother, it is not like that. You have heard that patience in obedience to Allah the Exalted is required. Providing the beard is obedience to Allah, so provide it and be patient. Be patient with what befalls you, be patient with what befalls you, and you will be rewarded, if Allah wills. But I do not think they come to a person just for having a beard; rather, they come to a person if he does something they do not want. So if a person holds fast to his religion and does not engage in inappropriate behavior, the most likely outcome is that he will not be harmed. And if, by chance, he is harmed because of his adherence to the Sunnah, he is rewarded for his patience. Yes.