I have heard many things about pubic hair and that under the armpits. From shaving it, or trimming it, to it being your personal choice. Could you clarify upon this subject. Is it Sunnah or is it Wajib to do so? I know that the Prophet Muhammed (pbuh) ordered men to shave their pubic hair for cleanliness, but then I think that in those times, there was no such thing as anti-bacterial soap or other things of that sort. So would it be ok for us to leave our pubic hair the way it is since we have better hygenic facilities than at those times? I have shaved my pubic hair before and it was not comfortable at all, if I should continue, what is the easiest and most comfortable way to take care of my pubic hair?

My second question involves the same topic. What is considered the "Pubic Area" when it comes to removing pubic hair? Does it also include the hair on the scrotum, the hair around the anus and, the hair between the scrotum and the anus?

For my opinion regarding the stated issue, please refer to one of my previous responses to a related question^[1].

In my opinion, the kind of directives given by the Prophet (pbuh), regarding the issue is a hindrance in accepting the opinion that any other method, besides removing the hair (like using anti-bacterial soap), may be adopted for cleaning the area. It seems that the Prophet (pbuh) has prescribed the shaving, plucking or, in any other way, removing the hair from the area. Muslims should therefore follow the prescription of the Prophet (pbuh).

As far as feeling uncomfortable after such shaving is concerned, I assure you, it is only due to a lack of regularity in such shaving. If you shave the hair more regularly, you shall find that the situation would be reversed and you would start feeling uncomfortable if you do not remove your hair for sometime.

August 29, 2000