Fatwa ID: 04987

Answered by: Imam Abdul-Malik Sheikh

Question

I had a question concerning the ruling on cutting the mustache. I have heard it is better to both trim and shave the mustache. Is it permissible to do both? If so, is it preferred to do one over the other?

In the name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful

Answer:

The scholars agree that it is impermissible to shave the beard. This is established from many authentic ahadith such as the following

“Differ from those who ascribe partners to Allah (al-mushrikin): leave beards to grow, and trim mustaches.”

With regards to the mustache then what is clear from the narrations is that we should not let it grow long. There are narrations that mention cutting and some mentioning trimming:

“Trim (your) mustaches and lengthen/grow (your) beards.” (Bukhari and Muslim)

“Cut off mustaches, leave beards and do otherwise than the fire-worshippers.” (Sahih Muslim,)

Based on these narrations you can either trim or cut the mustache and you will be rewarded for this. 

References:

• Al-Lubab Fi Sharh al-Kitab, Vol 2 p 41, Dar Al-Ma’rifa, Beirut
• Al-Ashbah Wal Nazair of Ibn Nujaym , p79, Dar al-Kutub al-Ilmiyyah

Only Allah knows best

Written by Imam Abdul-Malik Sheikh

Checked and approved by Mufti Mohammed Tosir Miah

Darul Ifta Birmingham