Is it permissible for one who resides in Western countries to relinquish some of the matters of his religion if he faces harassment?

Question:
He says: Honorable Shaykh, may Allah grant you success. Some people who reside in Western countries believe that if they face harassment from the rulers or from the people, it is permissible for them to relinquish some of the matters of their religion, such as the beard—growing the beard—and the hijab, and the like. Is their action correct?

Answer:
Disbelievers do not [harass you] because of your beard, nor do they target you because of your beard, and they never target you regarding your private matters. This is only humiliation from Shaytan. You do not harm people, you do not transgress against people, and no punishment ever comes to you. So adhere to proper conduct and stick to your religion; no one can force you to shave your beard. The problem is that Muslims are the ones who are currently being forced to shave their beards. Muslims are being forced to shave their beards, meaning some Muslim countries force people to shave their beards. As for the disbelievers, it has not reached us that they force people to shave their beards; they have no business with the beard, and it is not a concern for them. Most of the disbelievers have beards; yes, there are bearded men among the disbelievers.