Are the signs of puberty mentioned in Fatwa (78480), such as the growth of pubic hair, considered evidence of puberty, what is the extent of disagreement among the jurisprudential schools regarding this, and is the date of احتلام (wet dream/nocturnal emission) sufficient for accountability if the time of coarse hair growth is unknown?
It is mentioned that what is considered regarding pubic hair, by which the age of taklīf (religious accountability) is established, is its coarseness, to the extent that it merits being shaved with a razor. This is what Ibn Qudamah mentioned and narrated from the Malikis and Shafi'is. The intention is not the consensus of the Shafi'is that hair growth is a sign of puberty, but rather the coarseness of the hair. If coarseness appears in pubic hair, whether shaved with a razor or not, it is considered evidence by those scholars who hold this view, provided that the individual is within the probable age of puberty (12 years and above). Whoever shows signs of puberty must hold themselves accountable and adhere to caution if they doubt the presence of a sign of taklīf. It is better for them to adhere to the commands of Sharīʿah even before puberty.
Summarized from the full answer at Ftawy · reviewed Sep 2, 2026
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