Question: Is it permissible and advisable to shave off one’s beard for work purposes?
Answer:
Wa alaykum assalam wa rahmatullahi wa barakatuh,
Dear questioner,
Thank you for your important question.
Having a beard is a religious symbol for Muslim men and a sign of masculinity. Stating one’s Islam and stating one’s masculinity rank very high up on the priorities of Islam. The Prophet (Allah bless him and give him peace) listed growing one’s beard as one of the main outward signs of keeping with the good and natural order of the universe (fitra). [Muslim]
Shaving off one’s beard is something that is prohibited (manhiyyun ‘anhu) in Islam. All the schools of fiqh agree on this. The only debate is whether or not it is sinful, or merely disliked (makruh tanzihan).
Please see: Rulings On Beards
https://seekersguidance.org/answers/shafii-fiqh/ruling-shaving-shortening-beard-shafii-school/
https://www.aliftaa.jo/Question1En.aspx?QuestionId=1290#.X_X4jOlKg00
If the nature of your work requires that you not have any hair on your face for some health and safety or practical reason, then there might be room for that. I do not personally know of any jobs where the nature of the work itself necessitates that. Please see: https://seekersguidance.org/answers/hanafi-fiqh/beard-and-coronavirus/
If, however, management has decided against beards, one should just use your employment rights to lobby against it. If there is no progress, one should look for another job if that is viable.
I pray this helps.
[Ustadh] Farid Dingle
Checked and Approved by Shaykh Faraz Rabbani
Ustadh Farid Dingle has completed extensive years of study in the sciences of the Arabic language and the various Islamic Sciences. During his studies, he also earned a CIFE Certificate in Islamic Finance. Over the years he has developed a masterful ability to craft lessons that help non-Arabic speakers gain a deep understanding of the language. He currently teaches courses in the Arabic Language.