Islam
- Requirement: Many Islamic scholars interpret Hadith literature as advocating for men to grow beards. It is often seen as following the Sunnah of the Prophet Muhammad.
- References:
- Hadiths: Numerous Hadiths from Sahih al-Bukhari and Sahih Muslim discuss the Prophet Muhammad’s practice of growing a beard.
- Islamic Jurisprudence: Books on Islamic jurisprudence, such as “Reliance of the Traveller” by Ahmad ibn Naqib al-Misri, discuss the beard as part of the Sunnah.
Judaism
- Requirement: In Orthodox Judaism, particularly within the Hasidic and some other communities, wearing a beard is considered a sign of piety and adherence to traditional Jewish laws.
- References:
- Torah: Leviticus 19:27 instructs not to “mar the corners of your beard,” which is interpreted by some as a prohibition against shaving the beard completely.
- Talmud: Various discussions in the Talmud, such as in Tractate Makkot, reflect traditional views on beard grooming.
Sikhism
- Requirement: Sikhism mandates that adherents maintain uncut hair, including beards, as a sign of respect for the natural form given by God.
- References:
- Guru Granth Sahib: Sikh scripture emphasizes the importance of keeping hair uncut, which includes the beard.
- Sikh Code of Conduct: The Rehat Maryada, the Sikh code of conduct, includes the instruction to maintain uncut hair.
Zoroastrianism
- Requirement: Traditional Zoroastrian practice, particularly among priests, includes wearing a beard as part of religious observance and identity.
- References:
- Zoroastrian texts and historical accounts describe the beard as part of the attire of Zoroastrian priests and followers.
Certain Indian Spiritual Traditions (e.g., some sects of Hinduism):
- Encouragement: While not a universal requirement, some Hindu ascetics and sages maintain beards as a symbol of their renunciation and spiritual path.
- References:
- Various Hindu texts and biographies of saints and sages mention the practice of wearing beards as a part of their ascetic lifestyle.
Druze
- Encouragement: In Druze tradition, older men and religious leaders often keep beards as a sign of wisdom and respect.
- References: While specific religious texts are less prominent, cultural practices and community norms emphasize the importance of beards.
Certain Sufi Orders
- Encouragement: Some Sufi orders encourage beards as part of their spiritual and ascetic practices.
- References: Sufi literature and historical accounts often depict Sufi saints and practitioners with beards.
The Mandaeans
- Encouragement: In Mandaean tradition, beards are maintained by priests and are considered a sign of spiritual and ritual purity.
- References: Mandaean religious texts and historical descriptions highlight the role of beards in ritual practices.
Traditional Indigenous Cultures
- Encouragement: In various indigenous cultures and spiritual practices, including some Native American tribes, facial hair can hold cultural or spiritual significance.
- References: Specific practices can vary widely and may not always be documented in written texts but are part of oral traditions and cultural practices.