My Mother Prefers That I Don’t Have a Beard

Answered by Ustadha Zaynab Ansari

Question: My situation is that my mom doesn’t like how I look in a beard. She knows it’s a sunnah to have one and doesn’t mind it but prefers if I don’t have one. Since it is a sunnah, should I grow the beard anyway disregarding my mother’s wishes or should I listen to my mother because moms have such a high position in Islam and not grow out the beard? Is either acceptable with the correct intention?

Answer: Dear Brother,

Assalamu alaikum.

I pray this message finds you and your family well.

Thank you for your question.

You should talk to your mother to discern what she doesn’t like about your growing a beard. Given the current climate of Islamophobia, your mother may be concerned that you’ll face discrimination. If this is the case, reassure her by pointing out brothers who wear Sunnah beards and have good jobs and are engaged in their communities.

Emphasize to your mother that you value her point of view AND hold the Sunnah of the Prophet, Allah bless him and give him peace, dear.

How about a trial period of growing out your beard a little at a time to get your mother used to the idea?

May Allah Ta’ala create understanding between you and your mother.

Regards,

Zaynab Ansari