We have learned the ruling on shaving the beard, but what is the ruling on taking some of one's beard? Does this also fall under shaving?

The questioner : We have learned the ruling on shaving the beard, but what is the ruling on one who takes some of his beard? Does this also fall under shaving, O honorable Shaykh?

The Shaykh : Shaving the beard: we have only learned that it is forbidden.

The questioner : Yes.

The Shaykh : Based on the saying of the Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him): In one wording: In another wording: Trimming it is a contradiction of this command, because one who trims it has not let it grow long, nor made it complete, nor made it full. However, there is no doubt that trimming is lighter than shaving, because shaving is the removal of the hair entirely, while trimming is the removal of a part of it, and removing a part is not like removing the whole. But it is within the scope of sin if one takes anything from it. Accordingly, it is obligatory for one who fears Allah (Mighty and Majestic) to avoid shaving the beard and taking from it. This will become easy for him if he has resolved and determined to do so and seeks reward from Allah, for then the matter will be lightened for him. It will be lightened for him to let the beard grow and keep it, even if it becomes long, because when a person seeks reward from Allah (Mighty and Majestic) for what he does and expects His reward for it, everything becomes easy for him.

The questioner : May Allah bless you.

The Shaykh : Yes.

The questioner : The listener, Fawziyah Muhammad from Libya, says: O honorable Shaykh.