What is the ruling on shaving only a portion of the head?
Chapter on Utensils
Al-Mughni
Book of Purification
Primary text
Shaving only a portion of the head is disliked (*makruh*). This act is known as *Qaza’* (patchy shaving). The Prophet, peace be upon him, forbade *Qaza’* and commanded, "Shave all of it or leave all of it." This is based on the narration from Ibn Umar, reported by Abu Dawud.
Supporting text
If a Muslim performs this act, it constitutes resembling the People of the Covenant (*Ahl adh-Dhimmah*), as Umar stipulated that they must shave the forelocks of their heads for differentiation from Muslims.