The recommended time to shave a newborn baby's hair in Islam is on the seventh day after birth.
Islamic Perspective on Shaving Newborn Hair
According to Islamic teachings, shaving a newborn's hair is a Sunnah, a practice encouraged by the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH). This act is not merely a grooming practice but also carries spiritual significance.
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Sunnah: The shaving of the baby's head is a recommended practice, not obligatory, as mentioned by Imam al-Nawawi in al-Majmu'.
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Seventh Day: The specific timing is on the seventh day after the baby's birth. This is when it's considered Sunnah to remove the hair.
Why the Seventh Day?
This specific timing is significant because:
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Completion of Initial Rites: The seventh day is also when other practices related to the birth of a child are often performed, such as the Aqiqah (sacrifice of an animal).
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New Beginning: Symbolically, it marks the beginning of a new phase for the child, free from the hair it had since birth.
What to Do with the Hair
After shaving the hair:
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Weight and Donate: It is also recommended to weigh the shaved hair and give an equivalent amount in gold or silver as charity (Sadaqah). The value of gold or silver may vary, but the intent is to give to those in need.
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Hygiene: Shaving the head helps with hygiene, especially in warm climates and for babies with thick hair.
Summary Table
| Action | Timing | Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| Shaving the baby's hair | Seventh Day | Sunnah, Spiritual Significance, Hygiene |
| Sadaqah (Charity) | After Shaving | Donate Gold or Silver equivalent to the hair's weight |
Conclusion
In conclusion, the recommended time to remove a newborn baby's hair in Islam is on the seventh day after birth, reflecting a Sunnah act with both spiritual and practical benefits. Remember, this action is encouraged but not obligatory.
