Assalamu alaykum

just wondering what the ruling is if you have long hair and it gets in the way while working etc. is it permissible to use an elastic band or bobble and tie it back into a pony so it doesnt get in the way?

also whats the ruling on a man praying with their hair in this manner?

jazakallah

In the name of Allah, the most Beneficent, the most Merciful.

Answer

Saaidah Umm Hani Radiallahu Anha is reported to have said that the Prophet of Allah Sallallahu Alahi Wasalam entered Makkah, whilst he had four braids (on his hair).” (Sunan Ibn Majah p.259 v.2, Sunan Tirimizi & Sunan Abi Dawud)

Hafiz Ibn Hajr (RA) has written that what is indicated from the hadith is that the Prophet of Allah Sallallahu Alahi Wasalam hair usually came down to his shoulders and sometimes it was so long that he wore it in braids. This was when the Prophet of Allah Sallallahu Alahi Wasalam was so preoccupied that he could not take care of his hair, such as when travelling etc…” (Fathul Bari p.360 v.10)

In principle it is permissible for a man to braid his hair or to tie it in a ponytail if there is a need like playing sports etc… or if it is difficult for him to take care of his hair. However, it is preferable to refrain from it.

Ibn Abdil Barr, a great Maliki Scholar, has written in his “Al Tamhid Lima Fil Muwatta Minal Maani Wal Asaneed” (The facilitation to the meanings and chains of transmission found in Imam Malik’s Muwatta) that this principle is subject to custom. If custom dictates that by braiding the hair there will be imitation with females then those who are decent and of good character should refrain from it.” (p.80 v.6)

Finally, it is considered makruh to read salah whilst having the hair braided or in a ponytail. It is mentioned in a hadith that the Prophet of Allah Sallallahu Alahi Wasalam passed by a man who was praying with his hair braided, upon which the Prophet of Allah Sallallahu Alahi Wasalam said “Leave your hair to make prostration with you.” (Tabraani p.267 v.9)

Only Allah Knows Best

Mohammed  Tosir Miah

Darul Ifta Birmingham.