7 Best Beard Cultures and Traditions from Around the World

Almost every culture around the world has grown beards at some time or another. The Romans at the time of Caesar looked down on the beard as fashionable for barbarians. However, by the time of Emperor Hadrian, beards were back, thanks to the renaissance of Greek culture. 

Some groups, however, never let the beard go out of fashion. For the venerable beard cultures and traditions, facial hair remains a mark of divinity, a way to stand out from other groups, or a rite of passage. 

Let's take a look at some of the world's most fascinating beard cultures and traditions throughout history.

Best Beard Cultures and Traditions

Sikhism

What kind of beard? Sikh beards are nothing short of majestic—a full, flowing testament to natural beauty. No trimmers allowed here; these beards grow as nature intended, voluminous and proud.

Why is it grown? It's all about spiritual swagger. Keeping the beard uncut is part of Kesh, one of the pillars of the Sikh faith, where maintaining one's body hair is seen as respecting God's work. So, it's not just hair; it's divine decree!

Notable growers. Think Waris Ahluwalia, with his stylish, runway-ready beard, or Harbhajan Singh, who pairs his turban and beard with cricket pads—both showing the world how Sikhs rock their beards with honor and style.

Read more: Why Do Sikhs Always Have Beards?

The Amish

What kind of beard? Amish beards are seriously old school—thick, full, and minus the mustache (because who really needs the extra fluff?). It's all about the chin and cheeks.

Why is it grown? Post-wedding beard game strong! Once an Amish guy ties the knot, the beard becomes his lifelong buddy, signaling his marital status and commitment. No rings needed, just good old facial hair. It all goes back to a verse in the Bible that says you're not allowed to trim the corners of your beard. Oh, and the absence of a mustache is to differentiate themselves from the English mustaches of colonial times. 

Notable growers. While you won't see any Amish men rocking their beards on Instagram, stroll through Lancaster County, and you'll spot plenty of these bearded gents going about their day, tilling fields and crafting furniture, beards and all.

Read more: Why Do Amish Men Have Beards?

Orthodox Judaism

What kind of beard? In Orthodox Judaism, beards are often thick and untrimmed, worn as a cascade of faith that frames the face. For many, it's more than just facial hair; it's a tradition steeped in religious significance.

Why is it grown? The beard is seen as a badge of piety and wisdom. Many interpretations of the Torah discourage shaving, viewing the preservation of the beard as a respect for the body's natural state as created by God. It's a daily, living expression of faith and adherence to Jewish law.

Notable growers. Rabbi Shmuley Boteach, who not only sports an impressive beard but also blends modernity and religious tradition, makes the beard as much a part of his public persona as his dynamic interpretation of Jewish teachings.

Imperial Germany

What kind of beard? Oh, the Imperial Germans knew how to wear a beard—think Kaiser Wilhelm II with his iconic, sharply twisted mustache and a rich, full beard. It was all about the dramatics, with each whisker meticulously groomed to project power and authority.

Why was it grown? In Imperial Germany, the beard was a symbol of military and aristocratic prestige. The more elaborate your facial hair, the more respect and status it commanded. It was an era when a man's mustache could speak volumes about his social standing and his seriousness in matters of state.

Notable growers. Kaiser Wilhelm II himself, the poster child for Imperial beard culture. His distinctive, elaborately groomed mustache and beard were so iconic that they became symbols of the era, representing the imperial dignity and the militaristic spirit of the time.

Ancient Greece

What kind of beard? In Ancient Greece, beards were the epitome of wisdom and virility. Philosophers and warriors alike sported thick, flowing beards, groomed to perfection or left rugged to showcase their rugged intellect and battle prowess.

Why was it grown? For the Greeks, a beard was much more than facial hair—it was a symbol of maturity, wisdom, and power. In a society that values debate and discourse, a well-kept beard might just give you the edge in persuasion and respect in the public square.

Notable growers. Socrates, the quintessential philosopher, let his beard speak volumes about his dedication to thinking and teaching. Then there's Alexander the Great, who, despite famously shaving to promote soldierly efficiency, still remains linked to the bearded sages of his time.

Hipster Culture

What kind of beard? The hipster beard is an eclectic mix of styles, from the neatly trimmed to the wild and woolly. It's as much a fashion statement as it is a throwback to the rugged beards of yesteryear, often paired with a well-maintained mustache.

Why is it grown? It's about individuality and a nod to nostalgia in a digital age. The beard among hipsters is both a rebellion against the clean-shaven corporate world and a personal expression of one's unique style and return to traditional grooming habits.

Notable growers. Think Jack Passion, the two-time world beard champion, whose fiery red beard has become legendary in the beard-growing community. His whiskers have not only won titles but also helped spur a broader cultural appreciation for impressive facial hair.

The Vikings

What kind of beard? Viking beards were rugged, robust, and ready for the high seas. These fierce Norse explorers sported thick, often braided beards that were as practical as they were fearsome, protecting their faces from the harsh Scandinavian cold.

Why was it grown? Beyond warmth, a Viking's beard symbolized strength and valor—essential virtues for a warrior culture steeped in the sagas of conquest and exploration. It was also a marker of age and experience, often seen as enhancing one's ferocity and wisdom in battle and in counsel.

Notable growers. Ragnar Lothbrok, whether legend or historical figure, is often depicted with a formidable beard, epitomizing the quintessential Viking warrior's look that has captured the imagination of countless history enthusiasts.