Is trimming the beard or shaving some of its sides considered a lack of religious commitment, especially given that some sheikhs are seen doing so?

The boundary of the beard is the hair that grows on the cheeks and chin. It is obligatory to let it grow, based on the Prophet's (peace be upon him) saying: "Be different from the polytheists; let your beards grow and trim your moustaches," and his saying: "Trim your moustaches and let your beards grow; be different from the Magians."

Scholars have differed regarding trimming the beard if it exceeds a fistful or becomes excessively long. Some scholars have permitted removing stray hairs or those that detract from its appearance. As for the hair close to the nose, it is part of the cheekbone, not within the boundary of the beard, so there is no objection to removing it. Shaving the beard is forbidden and indicates a lack of adherence to Islamic law.