Is it permissible to shave or trim the beard, and to let down one's garment (isbal al-izar) or abandon the Sunnah in general, in order to avoid the evils of prisons and the harassment of security forces in countries where growing a beard is forbidden and raising the garment is enforced, or is it obligatory to endure the harm?

Speaking the truth, standing firm upon it, and enduring harm in the way of Allah is superior. However, whoever fears genuine harm to themselves is permitted to avail themselves of Allah's concession, to avert harm from themselves. The majority of the Companions chose resolution (al-'Azimah) and persevered, while some, like 'Ammar ibn Yasir, availed themselves of the concession (al-Rukhṣah) when coerced. Regarding him, the Almighty said: “Whoever disbelieves in Allah after his belief, except for one who is compelled [to renounce his religion] while his heart is secure in faith.” (An-Nahl 16:106). Imprisonment and the torture it entails constitute a type of coercion that permits the omission of duties or the commission of forbidden acts under duress. However, necessity is estimated according to its extent; once the necessity ceases, the Muslim returns to Allah's command. He must strive in what he is able to do, and there is no blame upon him for what he refrained from due to fear of harm, nor should he abandon duties that he is not compelled to abandon. The Almighty said: “Allah does not charge a soul except [with that within] its capacity.” (Al-Baqarah 2:286), and “So fear Allah as much as you are able.” (At-Taghabun 64:16).