Haircuts
Even the barbershop is a place where one can do mitzvot. Every time that one goes for a haircut one has the opportunity to perform no less than fourteen different mitzvot.[1] Two such mitzvot are the commandments of "You shall not round the corners of your heads" and "don't destroy the corners of your beard"[2] both of which apply to either side of one's head. These two mitzvot also apply to the face in five different locations: at the top and bottom of one's cheek on both sides of the face, and the tuft of the chin.[3] So that's fourteen mitzvot right there!
Furthermore, when one has one's hair cut in a dignified manner, rather than in accordance with the latest modern or secular trends, one is rewarded for performing the mitzva of "not following in the ways of the Gentiles".[4] Indeed, it is forbidden to cut one's hair with the intention of imitating the ways of the non-Jewish community at large.[5] So too, a man is credited for "not following in the ways of a woman" when keeping his hair neat, short, and tidy in contrast to women who are generally more artistic and extravagant with their hairstyles.[6]
One of the more common hairstyles that is clearly non-Jewish in nature is that of long hair for men.[7] It is not in the spirit of the Torah for a man to have long hair, not to mention that "ponytails" are to be strongly discouraged, as well.[8]Another distinctly non-Jewish hairstyle is when the sides and back of the head are made bald while the hair at the top is left to remain significantly longer. Both such hairstyles are explicitly forbidden[9] and it is forbidden for a barber to cut his Jewish clients' hair in such a manner even if they should ask for it.[10] Nevertheless, it is permitted for one to have a non-Jewish hairstyle if it is needed for work related considerations.[11]
One who takes a haircut in honor of the upcoming Shabbat or Yom Tov is accredited with yet another mitzva, as well.[12] This is especially true when taking a haircut in honor of Rosh Hashana.[13] It is also noted that promptly paying the barber for his services is the fulfillment of two additional Torah commandments which forbid one to delay the wages of one's workers.[14] If the barber is poor one might also be accredited with fulfilling the mitzva of giving tzedaka.
Although one is permitted to discuss Torah related matters when taking a haircut, a number of authorities advise against doing so. This is based on the teaching that the act of cutting hair arouses "ruach ra'ah", an impure spirit, and it is not proper to discuss Torah in a place of impurity.[15] Closely related to this is the requirement to wash one's hands after taking a haircut, which might even be considered another mitzva, as well. A man should be in the habit of keeping his hair short and trim since, according to the Zohar, long hair is said to be the culprit for "harsh judgments" befalling a person.[16] It is interesting to note that whenever the Arizal would take a haircut he would always do so before midday.[17]As a general rule, a man is not permitted to dye his hair, though there are a number of situations and considerations in which one may be lenient in this matter.[18]
Also on the topic of haircuts, it is interesting to note that a Jewish king is required to take a haircut every single day, and it is not permitted for anyone to watch him while he does so.[19] Rabbi Yehuda Hachassid was famous for his fierce and mysterious opposition to cutting one’s hair or nails on Rosh Chodesh.[20] A man is advised not to work in a profession in which he will be constantly surrounded by women.[21] It is taught that as a result of their frequent interaction with women, jewelers, perfume salesmen, and hairdressers were individuals who were often prone to bad character.[22] A man is not permitted to have his hair cut by woman nor a woman by a man.[23] We are taught that God Himself braided Eve's hair in preparation for her wedding with Adam.[24]
[1] Kaf Hachaim, OC 232:15.
[2] Vayikra 19:27. These prohibitions generally refer to the use of a razor blade against the skin.
[3] Makkot 20a.
[4] Vayikra 18:3. See Sheilat Shlomo 1:23.
[5] Bava Kamma 83a.
[6] Devarim 22:5.
[7] Mishna Berura 27:15.
[8] See: Pri Chadash, in Kuntres Mayim Chaim, to Rambam, Hilchot Avoda Zara Chapter 11.
[9] Rashi, Avoda Zara 8a. Rabbi Yehuda Hachassid 54.
[10] YD 181:4-6.
[11] Sota 49b.
[12] Kaf Hachaim, OC 260:16.
[13] OC 581:4.
[14] Vayikra 19:13, Devarim 24:15, Bava Metzia 77a. See also Ahavat Chesed, Peticha - Tashlumei Sechar Sachir.
[15] Teshuvot V'hanhagot 2:6.
[16] Zohar, Ha'azinu.
[17] Ben Ish Chai, Lech Lecha. For more on this see Divrei Yitzchak (Kaduri) Shaar Seder Hayom 18.
[18] Devarim 22:5; YD 182:6.
[19] Rambam, Hilchot Melachim 2:5.
[20] Rabbi Yehuda Hachassid 48. Many authorities allow one who would not ordinarily take a haircut on Rosh Chodesh to do so when Rosh Chodesh is on a Friday. See Shulchan Halevi 1:6:1
[21] Kiddushin 82a.
[22] Ibid.
[23] Rivevot Ephraim 5:507.
[24] Nidda 45b.