What is the ruling concerning fingernails while in enemy territory?
General Chapter
Al-Mughni
Book of Jihad
Primary text
Fingernails must be kept long in enemy territory because they constitute a weapon. This is supported by the statement of Umar, as related by Ahmad, and by a narration from al-Hakam ibn Amr, who said the Messenger of God, peace be upon him, commanded us not to cut our fingernails in Jihad, stating, 'Strength is in the fingernails.'
Supporting text
Ahmad mentioned that long nails are necessary in enemy land, for instance, to untie a rope or something similar when one would be unable to do so without nails.