Is it more important to grow a beard, or to avoid resembling non-Muslims?

The importance of growing a beard and avoiding resemblance to non-Muslims is discussed in various hadiths attributed to the Prophet Muhammad ﷺ. The Prophet taught that Muslims should differentiate themselves from polytheists, emphasizing the significance of maintaining a beard and trimming mustaches. For instance, he instructed: Differ from the polytheists; let your beards grow and trim your mustaches Sahih Muslim 2:69SunniSAHIH. Similarly, he said, Trim the mustaches and let the beards grow Sunan an-Nasa'i 48:6SunniSahih (per Al-Albani).

These teachings suggest that both growing a beard and avoiding resemblance to non-Muslims hold significance in Islamic practice. The beard is often seen as a manifestation of a Muslim's identity, and growing it is viewed as an expression of adherence to the Sunnah of the Prophet ﷺ. The act of differentiating oneself from non-Muslims is also a broader principle in Islam that encompasses various aspects of behavior and appearance.

While these practices are important, scholars from both Sunni and Shia traditions recognize that the intention behind these actions plays a crucial role. The purpose is to embody the teachings of Islam authentically and maintain a distinct Islamic identity, which includes both the physical aspects, such as growing a beard, and the moral and ethical dimensions of one's behavior in society.