The Importance of Following the Prophet’s (PBUH) Teachings
The commands of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) are not separate from the teachings of the Quran; rather, they explain and implement them. The Quran itself emphasizes the necessity of obeying the Prophet (PBUH):
- Surah An-Nisa 4:80: "Whoever obeys the Messenger has obeyed Allah..."
- Surah Al-Hashr 59:7: "And whatever the Messenger gives you, take it, and whatever he forbids you, abstain from it..."
These verses highlight that the Prophet’s (PBUH) teachings are a direct extension of divine guidance and must be followed as part of Islamic faith.
The Beard in Islam: A Sign of Obedience and Identity
The Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) commanded Muslim men to keep their beards and trim their mustaches as a means of distinguishing themselves from non-Muslims.
The Command from the Prophet (PBUH)
The following Hadith clearly establishes the importance of keeping a beard:
"Trim the mustache and let the beard grow; be different from the polytheists." (Sahih al-Bukhari 5892, Sahih Muslim 259)
From this narration, scholars deduce that keeping a beard is either wajib (obligatory) or at least a strongly emphasized Sunnah. Many Islamic scholars agree that completely shaving the beard without necessity is not allowed, as it contradicts the Prophet’s command.
Scholarly Opinions
Islamic scholars hold different views on the obligation of keeping a beard:
- Hanafi, Maliki, and Hanbali scholars consider keeping a beard wajib (obligatory) and shaving it completely impermissible.
- Some Shafi’i scholars view it as a highly emphasized Sunnah rather than an obligation.
- Most scholars permit trimming the beard to a reasonable length, but complete shaving is generally discouraged unless there is a necessity, such as a medical issue.
The Hijab in Islam: A Divine Obligation
For Muslim women, wearing the hijab is a direct command from Allah. The Quran clearly instructs believing women to cover themselves modestly:
Quranic Evidence
-
Surah An-Nur 24:31 "And tell the believing women to lower their gaze and guard their chastity, and not to reveal their adornments except what normally appears. Let them draw their veils over their chests..."
-
Surah Al-Ahzab 33:59 "O Prophet, tell your wives, your daughters, and the women of the believers to draw their outer garments around them. That is more suitable so that they may be recognized and not be harassed."
These verses highlight the obligation of wearing modest clothing, covering the body properly, and ensuring that women do not display their beauty unnecessarily.
Hadith on Hijab
The Prophet (PBUH) further emphasized the hijab’s importance. He said:
"When a girl reaches puberty, nothing should be seen of her except her face and hands." (Abu Dawood 4104, graded Hasan)
From this, most scholars conclude that a Muslim woman must cover her entire body except for her face and hands.
Is Covering the Face (Niqab) Required?
Scholars have differing opinions on whether covering the face (niqab) is obligatory:
- Majority view (Hanafi, Maliki, and some Shafi’i scholars): Hijab (covering the body except for the face and hands) is obligatory, while niqab is recommended but not mandatory.
- Stricter view (Hanbali and some Shafi’i scholars): Covering the face (niqab) is obligatory, especially in places where there is a risk of fitnah (temptation).
Regardless of the ruling on the niqab, scholars agree that without any urgent need, women should adhere to the Islamic dress code as much as possible.
Exceptions and Necessities
Islam is a religion of ease, and in cases of necessity, certain relaxations are allowed. For example:
- If shaving the beard is required for a medical condition, it would be permissible.
- If a woman needs to uncover her face for identification, education, or medical treatment, it is allowed.
Conclusion
The beard for men and the hijab for women are integral aspects of Islamic teachings. The Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) explicitly commanded men to keep their beards, and Allah instructed women to wear the hijab. The Quran itself mandates obedience to the Prophet (PBUH), making his teachings essential in understanding and practicing Islam. While scholarly interpretations vary, the general consensus is that adhering to these practices is a sign of obedience and faith. In the absence of urgent necessity, Muslims are encouraged to follow these guidelines as closely as possible to fulfill their religious obligations and maintain their Islamic identity.