Title: Regarding the Ruling for Beard… Question: The Shari`ah has not given any explicit directive on keeping beard. So the matter pertains to distinction between the two sexes on its basis. You know shaving off beard does not necessarily result in resemblance with the opposite sex. Rather it gives a neat and fresh look to the person. In addition some people keep moustaches at the same time. Keeping in view the contents of para above, I, really, do not consider shaving off beard undesirable or prohibited on the premise that it results in resemblance with the opposite sex or it conceals the maleness of a person. Please comment? Dr. Muhammad Asif Pakistan Answer: As I see it, a man's shaving off his beard does not necessarily result in his taking to an appearance that resembles that of women. You are quite right that there are can be a number of other distinctive features between men and women and, therefore, removing one of these distinctive features should not always be seen as altering one's appearance to resemble the opposite sex. On the contrary, I consider beard to be one of the apparent natural distinctive features between the two sexes, just as moustaches. In view of this status of a man's beard, I consider it preferable for a man to maintain this apparent natural distinctive feature, which his Creator has inherently designed within him. In other words, it is not so much the point of resemblance with the opposite sex on the basis of which I consider it preferable for a man to not to remove his beard. On the contrary, it is the positive maintenance of the natural apparent distinctive features that God has kept within him, due to which I consider it preferable for a man to maintain his beard. Nevertheless, because the issue is not one based on any express directives of the Shari`ah , there can be a difference of opinion in this regard. I hope this helps. Regards, Moiz Amjad November 25, 2002