Is it Permissible for Men to Shave Chest Hair?

Yes, it is permissible for men to shave chest hair.

Islam has defined three types of hair. One which cannot be removed, one which must be removed, and the one where there is no ruling.

However, a common question arises. That is the concern of removing chest hair for men in Islam. Scholars argue that the removal of these hairs for men makes them imitate women and should be avoided. Several others argue that as these hairs have no rulings in Islam it is okay to remove them.

Is it Permissible to Shave Chest Hair for Men?

Yes, it is permissible for men to shave their chest hair.

Evidence

This practice is not prohibited. It falls under the category of personal grooming. For this, the Islamic law does not provide specific directives.

Islamic jurisprudence categorizes body hair into three distinct types:

1. Hair that cannot be removed: This includes the beard and eyebrows for men. These should be left to grow according to the Sunnah,
2. Hair that must be removed: This refers to the removal of armpit hair and pubic hair. This is considered a part of natural cleanliness and hygiene in Islam. For men, keeping the mustache trimmed is also recommended.
3. Hair regarding which there are no rulings: This includes hair on the chest, back, arms, and legs. Since the Quran and Hadith do not provide rulings regarding these areas, they are considered permissible for removal if one chooses to do so.

The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) is reported to have said that what is lawful is clear in the Quran and Hadith. He said what is unlawful is already clear in Allah’s book. He further mentioned that if there is a thing in between them then it should be ignored. (Mishkat al-Masabih 4228)

Since chest hair is not mentioned, it falls into the category of matters about which there is no doubt. So its removal is permissible.

Bottom Line

The removal of chest hair for men is a matter of personal preference. It is permissible in Islam. It is not associated with the requirements of cleanliness. It is not forbidden. Therefore, men are at liberty to choose whether to shave their chest hair.

And Allah knows best.

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