White hair can signal wisdom, fate, or simple biology — and while Islamic authorities differ on plucking it, the choice should be guided by belief, context and personal peace.
White hair has long carried a variety of meanings. In some cultures, white hair is a sign of wisdom, experience and respect and is regarded as a mark of maturity; in others it is seen as a symbol of aging and the passage of time.
In Islam, white hair is not directly described as either a virtue or a vice. Rather, the emphasis is placed on a person’s deeds and intentions. Still, some narrations make indirect reference to the matter. Some people believe that the whitening of hair may be a sign of frequent worship and night vigils. But this does not mean that every person with white hair is necessarily devout or ascetic.
When it comes to the ruling on plucking white hair, jurists’ opinions differ. Some consider it makruh (disliked) and others regard it as permissible.
Many people remove white hairs for reasons of beauty and grooming.
Plucking white hair does not affect a person’s faith or religious practice.
White hair is a sign of the passage of time and of divine decree, and removing it can be seen as opposing that decree.
White hair symbolizes experience and age, and plucking it can be viewed as a form of disrespect toward that symbol.
In the end, the decision to pluck or not to pluck white hair depends on the individual and should be made with attention to personal beliefs and circumstances. The most important point is that this decision should not cause distress or upset for the person or those around them.
Scholarly opinion: It is recommended to consult your own religious authorities (marājiʿ) on the question.
Causes of whitening: Hair turns white for many reasons, including genetics, nutrition and stress.
Positive outlook: It is important to view white hair as a sign of experience and the passage of time, and to accept it.
In conclusion, white hair is a natural part of life and should not be regarded as a defect or flaw.
Tip |
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Consult your own religious authorities (marājiʿ) for a ruling that fits your school of thought and context. |
Remember causes of white hair can be genetic, nutritional, or stress-related — it is not always a moral sign. |
If your concern is appearance, removing a white hair is commonly done for grooming and is viewed by many as permissible. |
If your concern is principle, consider that some jurists see white hair as part of divine decree and prefer acceptance. |
Make a choice that does not cause you or others emotional distress; personal peace matters. |
