About the Book

In the present age, many Muslims are affected by Western imperialism and media so much that they do not consider the beard as a symbol of Muslim identity anymore. The author has combined various disciplines in this book: Tafseer, ahadith, opinions of Islamic jurists, history, social psychology, biology as well as comparative religion.

The author's research is wide-ranging from the history of the beard among various nations in the past and present to the reasons for the rise of beardless culture among Muslims. He delves deep into the psychological and sociological reasons which resulted in the negligence of this important Sunnah by many present day Muslims. To strengthen his case, the author has presented the recent scientific research done by social psychologists which shows that the presence of a beard on a man's face makes him appear more attractive, intellectual, honest, and heroic both in the eyes of women as well ! as men.

The author has written a penetrating book on the significance of the beard in Islam. While many present day Muslims seek to minimize the significance of the beard, Dr. Gohar, relying on both religious and scientific documentation, has shown many of the deeper spiritual and psychological implications involved in both shaving and growing the beard. A great deal of information has been presented in a succinct and readable manner.

From the Foreword by Imam Zaid Shakir:

Dr. Gohar Mushtaq has written a penetrating book on the significance of the beard in Islam. While many present-day Muslims seek to minimize the significance of the beard, Dr. Gohar, relying on both religious and scientific documentation, has shown many of the deeper spiritual, and psychological implications involved in both shaving and growing the beard."

About the Author:

Gohar Mushtaq, born in 1971, completed his High School education in Pakistan and then, moved to the U.S.A. for higher studies. He received his Bachelors in Science degree from York College of The City University of New York in 1995 where he was the Valedictorian of 1995 class (graduating student with the highest GPA [grade point average) in the whole college) which was the large class in the history of York College. Gohar received his Masters in Science degree in Chemistry from Rutgers University (New Jersey) and his Ph.D. degree in Chemistry in 2001 (research specializing in the field of Biochemistry & Biophysical Chemistry).

At Rutgers University, he was also the recipient of the Graduate Teaching Excellence Award (2000) for the best teaching performance as a teaching assistant of college-level Chemistry to students. From his childhood, he received thorough Islamic education from his father. Throughout his college and university education, he continued studying the classical Islamic sciences privately from various Islamic teachers which include Imam Abdur Rehman Kashmiri and Imam Ismael. He frequently delivers Fridays khutbahs and lectures at various educational institutions, mosques, and Islamic centers in the areas of New York and New Jersey.