What is the ruling on men braiding their hair in what is known as dreadlocks with the intention of not imitating the disbelievers and of following the Sunnah in growing out one's hair, and is it permissible to keep or cut off artificial hair extensions?

Lengthening the hair and braiding it is originally permissible. And whoever does it with the intention of emulating the Prophet (peace be upon him) will be rewarded, provided that it does not lead to ostentation, or diminish one's integrity, or resemble the immoral. As for hair extensions, there is no good in them, and they do not resemble the prophetic appearance. And connecting a woman's hair with human hair is an abominable act and impermissible. As for connecting it with threads that do not resemble hair, there is a difference of opinion among scholars.