Yes, it is sunnah to shave a baby's head on the seventh day after birth according to Islamic tradition.
Sunnah of Shaving a Baby's Head
While shaving a baby's head is not mandatory in Islam, it is considered a highly recommended practice (sunnah). Here's a breakdown:
- Timing: The sunnah specifies shaving the head on the seventh day after the baby's birth.
- Action: The recommended action is to shave the baby's head, not just trim it.
- Charity: After shaving, the hair is weighed, and charity (usually in the form of silver) is given equivalent to the weight of the hair.
Shaving vs. Trimming
| Aspect | Shaving | Trimming |
|---|---|---|
| Sunnah | Recommended (highly) | Not specified as a sunnah |
| Action | Complete removal of hair | Cutting hair to a shorter length |
| Charity | Hair is weighed, charity is given | Not usually associated with charity based on the hair weight |
Practical Insights:
- Cultural Variations: While the sunnah emphasizes shaving, there might be slight cultural variations in how this practice is followed.
- Health Considerations: Ensure the baby's health is prioritized when considering shaving. Consult with medical professionals if needed.
- Intention: The act of shaving is meant to be an act of worship and obedience to Allah.
- Simplified Practice: If shaving the baby's head is not practical, you can opt for a short trim and donate to charity anyway, in the intention to follow the practice.
Conclusion
Shaving a baby’s head on the seventh day is considered a sunnah in Islam. This is followed by weighing the shaved hair and giving charity according to the weight of it in silver. While trimming is not against Islamic teaching, it is not considered a sunnah.
