Whether it's haram (forbidden) for a woman to be bald depends on the reason for the baldness. Generally, it's discouraged for women to shave their heads intentionally unless there's a valid necessity.
Intentional Shaving vs. Involuntary Hair Loss
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Intentional Shaving (Without Necessity): According to the reference provided, intentionally shaving the head is generally discouraged for women. This is based on a Hadith that forbids women from shaving their heads except when necessary.
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Involuntary Hair Loss (Due to Illness, etc.): If a woman experiences hair loss due to medical conditions (like alopecia, cancer treatment, etc.) or other factors beyond her control, it's not considered haram. There is no religious prohibition against experiencing natural or unavoidable hair loss.
Necessity (Darurah)
The reference mentions "necessity" as an exception to the discouragement of shaving the head. Examples of necessity could include:
- Medical Treatment: If shaving the head is required for medical treatment or surgery.
- Severe Infestation: If the hair is severely infested with lice or other parasites and shaving is the only effective way to treat the problem.
- Extreme Difficulty in Managing Hair: A condition that makes it exceptionally difficult to maintain hygiene or perform religious obligations (such as ablution) properly.
Summary
In conclusion, it's generally discouraged for a woman to intentionally shave her head without a valid necessity. However, involuntary hair loss due to medical conditions or other factors is not considered haram. Necessity, such as required medical treatment, can be a valid justification for shaving the head.
