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The Teaching of Purity from the Life of the Prophet ﷺ

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The fundamental characteristics of Islamic teachings regarding cleanliness

Islamic Principles of Cleanliness

Where the religion of Islam purified human beings from disbelief (kufr), polytheism (shirk), and all forms of misguided beliefs — granting them honor and dignity — it also elevated the status of humanity through its sublime teachings on inner and outer purity. Whether it be cleanliness of the body or tidiness of clothing, good physical appearance or noble manners, cleanliness of the home and belongings, or care for the cleanliness of one’s means of transport, in every aspect, Islam provides clear guidance and encouragement to maintain cleanliness and hygiene. Cleanliness holds a very high status in Islam. It is an essential part of a Muslim’s basic acts of worship, without which the worship may either not be valid or remain incomplete. Every person with refined taste naturally gives importance to cleanliness in their life, and Allah Almighty also loves those who stay clean and pure. As stated in the Holy Qur’an: اِنَّ اللّٰهَ یُحِبُّ التَّوَّابِیْنَ وَ یُحِبُّ الْمُتَطَهِّرِیْنَ "Indeed, Allah loves those who repent abundantly and loves those who purify themselves." (Surah Al-Baqarah, 2:222) The importance of cleanliness in Islam can be understood from just this one Hadith of the Holy Prophet ﷺ, in which he said: الطُّهُورُ شَطْرُ الْإِيمَانِ “Purity is half of faith.” (Sahih Muslim, Hadith 223)

Course Topics

In this course, we will understand the importance of cleanliness in the light of the Seerah of the Beloved Prophet ﷺ, so that — as Muslims — we can implement it in our lives. Along with personal hygiene, we will also learn to give due attention to cleanliness in our surroundings. Course Topics: 👈🏻 Fundamental features of Islamic teachings on cleanliness 👈🏻 Encouragement for keeping clothes clean 👈🏻 Encouragement for maintaining clean hair and nails 👈🏻 Encouragement for oral hygiene and clean teeth 👈🏻 Encouragement for keeping the house clean 👈🏻 Encouragement for maintaining cleanliness in the mosque 👈🏻 Encouragement for keeping public pathways clean 👈🏻 Cleanliness before and after eating 👈🏻 Cleanliness after relieving oneself 👈🏻 Global days observed in the name of cleanliness and the truth of Islam

Fundamental Aspects of Islamic Teachings on Cleanliness

No law in the world, no code of ethics, no viewpoint from revealed religions on cleanliness, and no opinion of any intellectual ever denies the importance and necessity of cleanliness. We’ve already briefly learned at the beginning of this course how highly Islam values cleanliness — even calling it half of faith. What’s truly needed, however, is to understand the spirit of cleanliness and to adopt it wholeheartedly. Education and training in cleanliness begin right from a mother’s lap. If a child is made to understand the importance of cleanliness and the harms of neglecting it, their mind will naturally accept it, and they will become firmly convinced that cleanliness is one of the most essential principles for living a healthy life — without which, life remains incomplete. The lesson that Islam gives about cleanliness holds a unique and elevated status. In Islam, the encouragement to remain clean is not temporary, nor is cleanliness celebrated as a one-time event, nor is it adopted as a passing trend or fashion. In this part of the course, we will explore in detail the distinct features of the Islamic encouragement toward cleanliness, so we can approach each of the following topics with that understanding in mind.

Key Features of Cleanliness in Islamic Teachings

The features of Islamic teachings on cleanliness can be divided into four parts: 1. In Islam, the teaching of cleanliness is not temporary. 2. In Islam, cleanliness is not treated as a festival. 3. In Islam, cleanliness is not a fashion but a part of worship. 4. Islam teaches us to maintain inner (spiritual) cleanliness along with outer (physical) cleanliness.

The teaching of cleanliness in Islam is not temporary

The encouragement towards cleanliness in Islam is neither temporary nor superficial. Rather, Islam teaches us to maintain continuous cleanliness and to eliminate impurity from its roots. For example, if a person develops unpleasant breath, it is often due to stomach issues, and the root cause of stomach problems is the consumption of poor-quality food. In an attempt to eliminate bad breath, people create and use various types of toothpaste. While these may temporarily remove the odor and create a pleasant feeling, it is only a short-term solution. After a while, the bad breath returns, and the same temporary solution is applied again. However, the unique feature of Islam is that it addresses the root cause of the issue — in this case, the stomach problem — and instructs us to take preventive measures. Islam teaches us to consume quality food and to avoid overeating, because when the stomach is overloaded, it cannot digest the food properly, resulting in acidity, which in turn causes bad breath. This is a permanent solution to unpleasant breath. The Beloved Prophet ﷺ also encouraged moderation in eating. The Hadith states: عَنْ مِقْدَامِ بْنِ مَعْدِي كَرِبَ، قَالَ: سَمِعْتُ رَسُولَ اللَّهِ صَلَّى اللَّهُ عَلَيْهِ وَسَلَّمَ يَقُولُ: «مَا مَلَأَ آدَمِيٌّ وِعَاءً شَرًّا مِنْ بَطْنٍ. بِحَسْبِ ابْنِ آدَمَ أُكُلَاتٌ يُقِمْنَ صُلْبَهُ، فَإِنْ كَانَ لَا مَحَالَةَ فَثُلُثٌ لِطَعَامِهِ وَثُلُثٌ لِشَرَابِهِ وَثُلُثٌ لِنَفَسِهِ “No human ever filled a vessel worse than his stomach. It is sufficient for the son of Adam to eat a few bites to keep his back straight. If he must eat more, then a third for his food, a third for his drink, and a third for his breath.” (Sunan al-Tirmidhi, Hadith 2380) To further support this permanent solution, Islam introduced the practice of using miswak, which not only helps in the temporary cleanliness of the mouth but also aids digestion and improves stomach health. When digestion improves and the stomach is healthy due to the blessings of miswak, bad breath is naturally eliminated. This is the beauty of Islam’s teachings on cleanliness — it doesn’t emphasize temporary fixes but encourages true and lasting purification.

Cleanliness in Islam Is Not a Festive Occasion

Just as one of the features of cleanliness in Islam is that it is not temporary but real and lasting, similarly, another key feature is that cleanliness is not treated as a festival or special occasion. Islam does not prescribe an annual or monthly cleaning drive—instead, it provides Muslims with a complete and comprehensive system of cleanliness. While festivals or designated days can certainly help raise awareness and motivate people to clean, a complete system of cleanliness instills such values into one’s nature and mindset that cleanliness becomes an integral part of life. For example, hand-washing is a part of cleanliness. Globally, Global Hand-washing Day is observed. (We will explore such globally celebrated cleanliness-themed days in detail at the final stage of this course.) Observing such a day certainly has its benefits—it encourages hand-washing and raises awareness about its advantages. However, Islam has given Muslims an entire framework for hand-washing. Muslims are instructed to wash their hands at least twelve times a day: • Five times during ablution for the five daily prayers • Before and after meals, which could be six times if one eats three meals a day • Upon waking up from sleep, as instructed in the Hadith This brings the minimum daily count to twelve, and in reality, the number can be even higher depending on circumstances. This is the Islamic system of cleanliness—it encourages washing hands frequently, not just once a year as part of a festival. So, if someone were to ask a Muslim to celebrate Global Hand-washing Day, the Muslim could rightly respond, “I observe this day every single day, because Islam has already encouraged this practice regularly and consistently.”

In Islam, cleanliness is not a fashion — it is a part of worship

In Islam, the system of cleanliness is not a matter of fashion — it is a part of a Muslim's worship. When a Muslim offers salah, they are commanded to perform ablution (wudu) — and this is worship. If a ghusl becomes necessary, its performance is also worship when done with a good intention. Keeping one’s clothes free from impurity is also an act of worship, as it ensures the correctness of prayer. Similarly, removing something harmful like a stone from the path is described in a Hadith as an act of charity — making it an act of worship and reward. In short, the system of cleanliness that Islam gives to Muslims is not for show or social display like a fashion, but it has been made a part of faith and worship. In fact, cleanliness has been declared as half of faith so that a Muslim may attain the pleasure of their Lord through it. Therefore, one should make cleanliness a regular habit, not for the sake of fashion, but to attain the pleasure and approval of Allah Almighty.

Islam teaches us not only physical cleanliness but also inner (spiritual) purification

The fourth key feature of Islam’s teachings on cleanliness is that Islam does not instruct us only to purify our outward appearance, but also strongly encourages us to purify our inner selves. Inner purification refers to cleansing the heart from malice and hatred, enmity towards fellow Muslims, jealousy and arrogance, showing off and suspicion, self-conceit, and unrealistic ambitions. These are impurities of the heart that eventually corrupt a person’s outward behavior as well. Therefore, we must pay greater attention to the purification of the heart. We have now discussed the four fundamental characteristics of Islamic teachings on cleanliness, which clearly demonstrate that the system of cleanliness given by Islam is entirely different from and superior to that of all other religions. This also highlights the truth and uniqueness of Islam—its teachings on cleanliness are so beautiful and complete that people of other religions are compelled to dedicate specific days to promote cleanliness, simply because they lack a comprehensive system or law for it. May Allah Almighty grant us steadfastness in the religion of Islam. Ameen.

Summary of the Discourse

Four fundamental aspects of Islamic teachings regarding cleanliness have been explained, making it clear that the system of cleanliness given to us by Islam is completely different and distinct from all other religions. This also highlights the truth of Islam—that its teachings on cleanliness are so beautiful that people of other faiths are compelled to celebrate it as a festival, since they do not have such a system or code. May Allah Almighty grant us steadfastness upon the religion of Islam. Ameen.

Guidance on clean clothes from the Seerah of the Beloved Prophet ﷺ

Cleanliness Training

Allah Almighty has bestowed countless blessings upon the Muslims. Among these blessings is the great gift of “clothing.” In the Holy Qur’an, Allah Almighty says: یٰبَنِیْۤ اٰدَمَ قَدْ اَنْزَلْنَا عَلَیْكُمْ لِبَاسًا یُّوَارِیْ سَوْاٰتِكُمْ وَ رِیْشًا “O descendants of Adam! Undoubtedly, We have sent down to you a garment that may conceal your parts of shame, and another for your adornment.” (Surah Al-A‘raf, verse 26, Para 8) In this noble verse, two purposes of clothing are mentioned: 1. Covering the body (modesty) 2. Adornment (beautification) This makes it clear that clothing serves not only to cover one's body but also to enhance appearance. Now, if someone wears clothes but they are not clean — emitting an unpleasant odor — then such a person has failed to fulfill the purpose of beautification through clothing. Our Beloved Prophet ﷺ would also encourage cleanliness in dress in a kind and wise manner. According to a narration in Sunan Abi Dawud, Sayyiduna Jabir رضي الله عنه reported: “One time, the Beloved Prophet ﷺ came to us and noticed a man who was wearing unclean clothes. The Beloved Prophet ﷺ said: أَمَا كَانَ هَذَا يَجِدُ مَاءً يَغْسِلُ بِهِ ثَوْبَهُ ‘Could he not find water to wash his clothes?’” (Sunan Abi Dawud, Hadith 4062)

Keep Your Clothes Neat

The Messenger of Allah ﷺ said: قَالَ رَسُولُ اللَّهِ ﷺ وَأَصْلِحُوا لِبَاسَكُمْ حَتَّى تَكُونُوا كَأَنَّكُمْ شَامَةٌ فِي النَّاسِ “Take care of your clothing so that you appear distinguished among the people.” (Sunan Abi Dawud, Hadith 4089)

Encouragement to Wear White Clothes

The Holy Prophet ﷺ not only liked white clothing but also encouraged wearing it. There is a Hadith: عَنْ سَمُرَۃَ بْنِ جُنْدَبٍ رضي الله عنه قَالَ : قَالَ رَسُوْلُ اﷲِ صلى الله عليه وآله وسلم : الْبَسُوْا الْبَیَاضَ فَإِنَّہَا أَطْہَرُ وَأَطْیَبُ، وَکَفِّنُوْا فِیْہَا مَوْتَاکُمْ Narrated by Sayyiduna Samurah bin Jundub رضي الله عنه: The Messenger of Allah ﷺ said: “Wear white clothes, for they are the purest and cleanest. And shroud your dead in them.” (Jami‘ at-Tirmidhi, Hadith 2810) Both of the mentioned Hadiths encourage that clothes should be clean and neat. Additionally, they emphasize maintaining one’s appearance through proper clothing, so that a person presents themselves well among others.

Encouragement to Wash Clothes from the Seerah of the Holy Prophet ﷺ

It is narrated in Tarikh Baghdad: عَنْ عَائِشَةَ، قَالَتْ: دَخَلَ عَلَيَّ رَسُولُ اللَّهِ ﷺ فَقَالَ لِي:* *يَا عَائِشَةُ اغْسِلِي هَذَيْنِ الْبُرْدَيْنِ "، قَالَتْ: فَقُلْتُ: بِأَبِي وَأُمِّي يَا رَسُولَ اللَّهِ بِالأَمْسِ غَسَلْتُهُمَا، فَقَالَ لِي: " أَمَا عَلِمْتِ أَنَّ الثَّوْبَ يُسَبِّحُ، فَإِذَا اتَّسَخَ انْقَطَعَ تَسْبِيحُهُ Sayyidah Aisha رضي الله عنها said: The Messenger of Allah ﷺ came to me and said: “O Aisha! Wash these two garments.” I replied, “May my parents be sacrificed for you, O Messenger of Allah ﷺ! I just washed them yesterday.” He ﷺ then said: “Do you not know that even clothes glorify Allah Almighty (do tasbeeh)? And when they become dirty, their glorification comes to an end.” (Tarikh Baghdad, Hadith 4772)

What Did We Learn?

We too, as Muslims, should keep our clothing clean and tidy. Allah Almighty loves it when a person expresses gratitude for the blessings He has granted — and this expression should be both through our speech and our clothing. However, one must be careful not to fall into showing off (riyā') or arrogance. Along with demonstrating the blessing, we should also develop the habit of being grateful for it.

The importance of hair and nail cleanliness in Islam

Islam is a religion of nature, known as Deen al-Fitrah, which emphasizes the importance of purity and cleanliness in every aspect of human life. Physical cleanliness, outward purity, and neatness are not only means of spiritual growth but are also essential for health and well-being. Maintaining cleanliness of the hair and nails is an important part of the Islamic principles of purity — something strongly emphasized in both the Qur’an and Hadith. A clean and tidy person not only feels fresh and rejuvenated themselves, but also leaves a pleasant impression on others. Allah Almighty loves those who remain clean. He says in the Holy Qur’an: إِنَّ اللَّهَ يُحِبُّ التَّوَّابِينَ وَيُحِبُّ الْمُتَطَهِّرِينَ “Indeed, Allah loves those who repent abundantly and loves those who purify themselves.” (Surah al-Baqarah, 2:222)

The Beloved Prophet’s ﷺ Guidance on Maintaining Clean Hair and Nails

عَنْ عَائِشَةَ، قَالَتْ: قَالَ رَسُولُ اللهِ ﷺ : *عَشْرٌ مِنَ الْفِطْرَةِ: قَصُّ الشَّارِبِ، وَإِعْفَاءُ اللِّحْيَةِ، وَالسِّوَاكُ، وَاسْتِنْشَاقُ الْمَاءِ، وَقَصُّ الْأَظْفَارِ، وَغَسْلُ الْبَرَاجِمِ، وَنَتْفُ الْإِبِطِ، وَحَلْقُ الْعَانَةِ، وَانْتِقَاصُ الْمَاءِ Narrated by Sayyidatuna Āisha رضي الله عنها: The Messenger of Allah ﷺ said: “Ten practices are part of the fitrah: trimming the mustache, letting the beard grow, using the miswak, rinsing the nose with water, clipping the nails, washing between the joints (of the fingers), removing the underarm hair, removing the hair below the navel, and cleansing oneself with water (after relieving oneself).” (Saḥīḥ Muslim, ḥadīth 261) This ḥadīth clearly shows that clipping the nails and removing unnecessary body hair are among the natural acts of fitrah. These practices help maintain personal hygiene and purity.

The Beloved Prophet’s ﷺ Encouragement for This in His Noble Seerah

The Noble Prophet ﷺ himself was very particular about cleanliness. He ﷺ would trim his nails and remove unwanted hair every Friday. Sayyiduna Anas رضي الله عنه narrates that the Beloved Prophet ﷺ said: وُقِّتَ لَنَا فِي قَصِّ الشَّارِبِ وَتَقْلِيمِ الأَظْفَارِ وَنَتْفِ الإِبْطِ وَحَلْقِ الْعَانَةِ أَنْ لَا نَتْرُكَ أَكْثَرَ مِنْ أَرْبَعِينَ يَوْمًا “A time limit has been set for us regarding trimming the moustache, cutting the nails, removing the underarm hair, and removing the hair below the navel — that we should not leave them for more than forty days.” (Sahih Muslim, Hadith 258) Sayyiduna Anas bin Malik رضي الله عنه also narrates: كَانَ رَسُولُ اللَّهِ صَلَّى اللَّهُ عَلَيْهِ وَسَلَّمَ يُقَلِّمُ أَظْفَارَهُ، وَيَحْلِقُ عَانَتَهُ، كُلَّ جُمُعَةٍ “The Messenger of Allah ﷺ would trim his nails and remove his hair below the navel every Friday.” (Sunan al-Nasa’i, Hadith 14) This shows how important cleanliness is in Islamic teachings. The Beloved Prophet ﷺ would also advise his companions to remain clean and tidy at all times and instructed them to avoid the dirt that accumulates beneath the nails. Hakim al-Ummah Mufti Ahmad Yar Khan Na’eemi رحمه الله states: “There is a poisonous substance found in the nails. If a person dips their nails into food or water, it can cause illness. This is why Westerners use cutlery, as Christians rarely trim their nails.” (Islami Zindagi, p.91)

The Beloved Prophet ﷺ Disliked Untidy Hair

The Noble Prophet ﷺ would guide those whose hair was untidy. It is narrated in Sunan Abī Dāwūd: عَنْ جَابِرِ بْنِ عَبْدِ اللَّهِ، قَالَ: أَتَانَا رَسُولُ اللَّهِ ﷺ فَرَأَى رَجُلًا شَعِثًا قَدْ تَفَرَّقَ شَعْرُهُ فَقَالَ: «أَمَا كَانَ يَجِدُ هَذَا مَا يُسَكِّنُ بِهِ شَعْرَهُ Jabir bin Abdullāh رضي الله عنه reported: The Messenger of Allah ﷺ came to us and saw a man whose hair was disheveled and unkept. He ﷺ said: "Could he not find something to tidy his hair with?" (Sunan Abī Dāwūd, Ḥadīth 4062)

What Did We Learn?

Allah Almighty loves cleanliness and also loves those who maintain cleanliness. As part of this, we must pay special attention to keeping our hair and nails clean — we should not be in a state where our hair is messy and our nails overgrown, as this is generally considered unpleasant. Therefore, a Muslim should take full care of their hygiene and cleanliness.

Encouragement for teeth cleanliness in the light of the Beloved Prophet's ﷺ Seerah

Cleaning the teeth is an essential act, not only for physical hygiene but also one that holds special significance in Islam. In Islam, cleanliness is considered half of faith, and cleaning the teeth is a part of that. Our Beloved Prophet ﷺ guided us in all aspects of cleanliness through his own practice, and the act of cleaning the teeth is also part of his ﷺ teachings.

Encouragement for Dental Hygiene and the Holy Prophet’s ﷺ Love for the Miswak

Due to neglecting dental cleanliness, plaque and buildup can accumulate on the teeth. The Noble Prophet ﷺ disliked this and encouraged keeping the teeth clean. In a narration from Musnad al-Bazzar, it is mentioned: كانوا يدخلون على رسول اللہ ﷺ ولم يستاكوا، فقال:تدخلون علي قلحا، استاكوا، فلولا أن أشق على أمتي لفرضت السواك عند كل صلاة، كما فرضت عليهم الوضوء "Some people would come to the Messenger of Allah ﷺ without using the miswak. He ﷺ said: ‘You come to me with your teeth covered in yellow stains! Use the miswak. Had I not feared hardship for my Ummah, I would have made the use of miswak obligatory before every prayer, just as wudu (ablution) has been made obligatory.’" (Musnad al-Bazzar, Hadith 1303) Regarding the protection of the teeth and molars, the Beloved Prophet ﷺ said: تخللوا علی أثر الطعام وتمضمضوا، فإنه مصحة للناب والناجذ "Remove food particles using a toothpick and rinse your mouth, for indeed this brings health to the teeth and molars." (Kanz al-‘Ummāl, Hadith 40836)

The Practice of the Noble Prophet ﷺ

Our beloved religion guides us in all aspects of cleanliness and hygiene. In the same way, for oral cleanliness, our Beloved Prophet ﷺ instructed the use of the miswak through both his words and actions. A noble hadith states: عَنْ أَبِي أُمَامَةَ، أَنَّ رَسُولَ اللَّهِ ﷺ قَالَ: «تَسَوَّكُوا؛ فَإِنَّ السِّوَاكَ مَطْهَرَةٌ لِلْفَمِ، مَرْضَاةٌ لِلرَّبِّ “Use the miswak, for indeed the miswak purifies the mouth and pleases the Lord.” (Narrated by Sayyiduna Abu Umamah رضی اللہ عنہ – Sunan Ibn Mājah, Hadith 289)

What Did We Learn?

Cleaning the teeth is not only essential for physical hygiene but also carries a spiritual dimension. The Beloved Prophet ﷺ encouraged us to use the miswak so that we may improve our cleanliness and attain the pleasure of Allah Almighty. Through his own actions, he showed us how to maintain cleanliness and made it a regular part of his life. Therefore, we must follow the Sunnah of the Beloved Prophet ﷺ and take special care of our bodily cleanliness.

Guidance of Islam regarding home cleanliness

Cleanliness is a part of human nature, and a clean environment provides not only physical comfort but also spiritual peace. Cleaning the home is not merely a social practice—it is an Islamic duty. Our religion considers cleanliness to be half of faith, and the life of the Messenger of Allah ﷺ is filled with countless examples of cleanliness. These examples teach us that we should never be negligent in maintaining a clean and tidy home.

Allah Almighty Loves Cleanliness

It is narrated from Sayyiduna Saeed bin Musayyib رضي الله عنه that the Holy Prophet ﷺ himself said: إِنَّ اللَّهَ طَيِّبٌ يُحِبُّ الطَّيِّبَ، نَظِيفٌ يُحِبُّ النَّظَافَةَ “Indeed, Allah is Pure and loves purity; He is Clean and loves cleanliness.” (Sunan al-Tirmidhī, Hadith 2799)

The Holy Prophet ﷺ Also Helped with Household Cleaning

The Holy Prophet ﷺ took great care to keep his home clean and tidy. Sayyidah Aishah رضي الله عنها narrates: "He ﷺ would mend his sandals, sew his clothes, and engage in household work just like any one of you does in your homes." (Musnad Ahmad, Hadith 24903)

What Did We Learn?

In the light of Islamic teachings, maintaining a clean home is not only necessary but also a source of reward. We should strive to maintain cleanliness in our homes to earn the pleasure of Allah Almighty and to follow the Sunnah of the Messenger of Allah ﷺ. It is commonly believed that cleaning the home is solely a woman’s responsibility, but this notion is incorrect. Wherever a person lives, it is also their responsibility to keep that space clean. This is one of the beautiful teachings of our religion, Islam — a teaching many people are unaware of. And the reason for this unawareness is that we have distanced ourselves from studying the Seerah of the Beloved Prophet ﷺ and practically applying it to our lives. Helping women with household chores or personally taking care of some cleaning tasks is a good practice. And if done with the intention of following the Sunnah of the Beloved Prophet ﷺ, then InshaAllah, it will also be a source of reward.

Encouragement for the upkeep and cleanliness of mosques from the Beloved Prophet's ﷺ Seerah

The mosque is a sacred place where Muslims gather to worship Allah Almighty. It is not only a place for prayer but also a center for religious learning, Islamic brotherhood, and spiritual peace. Just as Muslims purify themselves through wudu (ablution) and taharah, it is equally important to maintain the purity of the mosque so that it always remains a source of spiritual blessings. Islam considers cleanliness to be half of faith, and cleaning the mosque is a practical expression of that faith. It is such a noble task that Allah Almighty commanded His two chosen prophets, Sayyiduna Ibrahim and Sayyiduna Isma'il عليهما السلام, a command that is also mentioned in the Holy Qur’an. Allah Almighty says: وَطَهِّرْ بَيْتِيَ لِلطَّائِفِينَ وَالْقَائِمِينَ وَالرُّكَّعِ السُّجُودِ “And keep My House clean for those who perform Tawaaf (circumambulation of it), and those who perform I’tikaaf (i.e. devotional seclusion therein) and those who bow, (and) prostrate.” (Surah Al-Ḥajj, Ayah 26 – Part 17) This command was given to Sayyiduna Ibrahim عليه السلام to keep the House of Allah (the Kaʿbah) clean, and by extension, it applies to all mosques. This verse emphasizes that maintaining the mosque's cleanliness is an act of obedience to Allah’s command, and it is essential for worshippers to pray in a pure and clean environment. The Noble Prophet ﷺ also encouraged the cleaning of mosques: عَنْ عَائِشَةَ رضي الله عنها قَالَتْ أَمَرَ رَسُوْلُ اللهِ صلی اللہ علیہ وسلم بِبِنَاءِ الْمَسَاجِدِ فِي الدُّوْرِ وَأَنْ تُنَظَّفَ وَتُطَيَّبَ Sayyidah Aishah رضي الله عنها narrates: “The Messenger of Allah ﷺ commanded that mosques be built within residential areas, and that they be cleaned and perfumed.” (Sunan al-Tirmidhi, Hadith 594)

Cleanliness of the Mosque During the Time of the Beloved Prophet ﷺ

During the blessed time of the Beloved Prophet ﷺ, there was a woman who used to clean the mosque. عَنْ أَبِي هُرَيْرَةَ أَنَّ رَجُلًا أَسْوَدَ أَوْ امْرَأَةً سَوْدَائَ کَانَ يَقُمُّ الْمَسْجِدَ فَمَاتَ فَسَأَلَ النَّبِيُّ ﷺ عَنْهُ فَقَالُوا مَاتَ قَالَ أَفَلَا کُنْتُمْ آذَنْتُمُونِي بِهِ دُلُّونِي عَلَی قَبْرِهِ أَوْ قَالَ قَبْرِهَا فَأَتَی قَبْرَهَا فَصَلَّی عَلَيْهَا It is narrated from Sayyiduna Abu Huraiyrah رضي الله عنه that: A black man or woman used to clean the mosque. When the person passed away, the Beloved Prophet ﷺ inquired about them. The Companions replied, “They have passed away.” The Beloved Prophet ﷺ said, “Why did you not inform me?” He then said, “Show me their grave.” So he went to the grave and offered the funeral prayer for them. (Ṣaḥīḥ Muslim, Hadith 2215)

The Holy Prophet ﷺ Expressed Displeasure at Dirt in the Mosque and Joy at Its Cleanliness

عَنْ أَنَسٍ، أَنَّ النَّبِيَّ صَلَّى اللهُ عَلَيْهِ وَسَلَّمَ، رَأَى نُخَامَةً فِي قِبْلَةِ الْمَسْجِدِ، فَغَضِبَ حَتَّى احْمَرَّ وَجْهُهُ، فَجَاءَتْهُ امْرَأَةٌ مِنَ الْأَنْصَارِ فَحَكَّتْهَا، وَجَعَلَتْ مَكَانَهَا خَلُوقًا " فَقَالَ رَسُولُ اللَّهِ ﷺ: «مَا أَحْسَنَ هَذَا It is narrated from Sayyiduna Anasرضي الله عنه that the Beloved Prophet ﷺ saw spit on the qiblah wall of the mosque. He ﷺ became displeased, and his blessed face turned red with anger. Then a woman from the Ansar came, scraped it off, and applied perfume to that spot. Upon seeing this, the Messenger of Allah ﷺ said: "How beautiful is this!"

Bringing Dirt into the Mosque Is Not Permitted

The noble hadith states: The Holy Prophet ﷺ said: إِذَا دَخَلَ أَحَدُكُمُ الْمَسْجِدَ فَلْيَنْظُرْ فِي نَعْلَيْهِ فَإِنْ كَانَ فِيهِمَا أَذًى فَلْيَمْسَحْهُمَا وَيُصَلِّ فِيهِمَا “When one of you enters the mosque, he should check his shoes. If there is any dirt on them, he should wipe them clean, and then he may pray in them.” (Sunan Abī Dāwūd, Hadith 650)

The Beloved Prophet ﷺ Cleaning the Mosque

عَنْ يَعْقُوبَ بْنِ زَيْدٍ، أَنَّ النَّبِيَّ صَلَّى اللهُ عَلَيْهِ وَسَلَّمَ كَانَ يَتْبَعُ غُبَارَ الْمَسْجِدِ بِجَرِيدَةٍ It is narrated from Ya‘qub bin Zayd that: "The Beloved Prophet ﷺ would clean the dust in the mosque using a date palm branch." (Tafsīr al-Durr al-Manthūr)

What Did We Learn?

The mosque is the House of Allah, and maintaining its cleanliness and purity is the responsibility of every Muslim. The Noble Prophet ﷺ commanded this and practiced it himself. We should keep our mosques clean and tidy at all times, ensure they are fragrant, and maintain their sanctity so that our worship is filled with humility and devotion, and we may attain the pleasure of Allah.

Street cleanliness: In the light of Islamic teachings

Cleanliness is a sign of a civilized society, and Islam has placed great emphasis on it. Just as our homes and mosques should be clean, keeping public pathways clean is also a collective responsibility. Polluting streets, roads, and pathways is not only morally wrong but also contributes to social decay. Islam regards the cleanliness of public paths as an act of goodness and charity, because a clean environment brings not only physical but also mental and spiritual peace. Littering or dirtying the roads causes discomfort to those who pass by, and causing harm to a fellow Muslim is a clear sin. Allah Almighty says in the Holy Qur’an: وَالَّذِينَ يُؤْذُونَ الْمُؤْمِنِينَ وَالْمُؤْمِنَاتِ بِغَيْرِ مَا اكْتَسَبُوا فَقَدِ احْتَمَلُوا بُهْتَانًا وَإِثْمًا مُّبِينًا “And whoever pesters Muslim men and women; without them having done anything (wrong), they have burdened themselves with false accusations and open sin.” (Surah al-Ahzab, 33:58) The Noble Prophet ﷺ declared that removing harmful objects from the path is an act of charity. He ﷺ said: إِمَاطَةُ الْأَذَى عَنِ الطَّرِيقِ صَدَقَةٌ “Removing something harmful from the road is a charity.” (Sahih al-Bukhari, Hadith 2989) This Hadith makes it clear that removing stones, thorns, litter, or any other harmful object from the road is not only a social service but is also considered an act of worship and rewarded as charity.

The one who causes harm to Muslims on their paths is accursed

Keeping the pathways clean and free from filth and harmful objects is a moral duty of every citizen, so that those who pass through are not caused any harm or discomfort. The Noble Prophet ﷺ declared accursed the person who harms Muslims on their pathways. There is a hadith in this regard: Sayyiduna Abu Barzah رَضِيَ ٱللَّٰهُ عَنْهُ narrates: “I heard the Holy Prophet ﷺ say: مَنْ أَذَى الْمُسْلِمِينَ فِي طُرُقِهِمْ وُجِبَتْ عَلَيْهِ لَعْنَتُهُمْ Translation: Whoever causes harm to Muslims on their paths, the curse of the Muslims becomes incumbent upon him.” — (Al-Mu'jam al-Awsat by Tabarani, Hadith: 7647) This hadith makes it clear that polluting public pathways or causing obstruction in them is an act that invites people's curses and the displeasure of Allah.

He who removes a harmful tree from the road will enter Paradise

The Noble Prophet ﷺ mentioned a man who removed a thorny tree from the road so that people could pass with ease. Allah Almighty accepted his good deed and admitted him into Paradise. The Beloved Prophet ﷺ said: لَقَدْ رَأَيْتُ رَجُلًا يَتَقَلَّبُ فِي الْجَنَّةِ فِي شَجَرَةٍ قَطَعَهَا مِنْ ظَهْرِ الطَّرِيقِ كَانَتْ تُؤْذِي النَّاسَ “I saw a man walking in Paradise because he had cut down a tree from the road that used to cause harm to people.” (Sahih Muslim, Hadith: 1914)

What did we learn?

Islam, being a religion of nature, has given special instructions regarding public pathways. Even though their importance is recognized in the system of life, people often tend to ignore them in everyday circumstances. They remain content with their state, regardless of whether the roads and walkways are broken, dirty, or in poor condition. There is little concern, and life just continues as it is. However, as Muslims, we must understand that keeping the pathways clean is not just a social responsibility, but an act of worship and a form of charity. Those who uphold this practice earn not only respect in this world but also become deserving of Allah’s mercy in the Hereafter. The Noble Prophet ﷺ strongly emphasized the cleanliness of the roads and declared such actions to be a means of entering Paradise. We too should follow these teachings and play our part in making our society clean and pleasant.

The practice of cleanliness before and after eating

Islam has strongly emphasized cleanliness before and after eating. In Islam, this encouragement is well understood by every sensible person, as it highlights the importance of hygiene. Our Beloved Prophet ﷺ not only taught this to the noble Companions علیہم الرضوان but also trained them through his own actions. In a hadith, washing hands before and after eating is described as a means of blessing in food. It is narrated: عَنْ سَلْمَانَ الْفَارِسِيِّ قَالَ: قَرَأْتُ فِي التَّوْرَاةِ أَنَّ بَرَكَةَ الطَّعَامِ الْوُضُوءُ بَعْدَهُ، فَذَكَرْتُ ذَلِكَ لِلنَّبِيِّ ﷺ، فَقَالَ: بَرَكَةُ الطَّعَامِ الْوُضُوءُ قَبْلَهُ وَالْوُضُوءُ بَعْدَهُ Sayyiduna Salman Farsi رَضِيَ ٱللَّٰهُ عَنْهُ said: “I read in the Torah that washing hands after eating brings blessings. So I mentioned it to the Holy Prophet ﷺ, and he ﷺ said: ‘The blessing of food is in washing the hands before and after eating.’” — (Sunan al-Tirmidhi, Hadith: 1846)

If a morsel falls, pick it up, clean it, and eat it

عَنْ أَبِي هُرَيْرَةَ، قَالَ: قَالَ رَسُولُ اللَّهِ صلی اللہ علیہ وسلم: "إِذَا سَقَطَتْ لُقْمَةُ أَحَدِكُمْ، فَلْيَأْخُذْهَا وَلْيُمِطْ مَا كَانَ بِهَا مِنْ أَذًى، ثُمَّ لِيَأْكُلْهَا، وَلَا يَدَعْهَا لِلشَّيْطَانِ، وَلْيَلْعَقْ أَحَدُكُمْ أَصَابِعَهُ، فَإِنَّهُ لَا يَدْرِي فِي أَيِّ طَعَامِهِ الْبَرَكَةُ Sayyiduna Abu Hurairah رَضِيَ ٱللَّٰهُ عَنْهُ narrated: The Messenger of Allah ﷺ said: “When one of you drops a morsel, let him pick it up, clean off any dirt on it, and then eat it. Do not leave it for the Shaytan (Satan). And let him lick his fingers, for he does not know in which part of the food the blessing lies.” — (Sahih Muslim, Hadith: 2034)

The Virtue of Cleaning Between the Teeth After Eating

عَنْ عَائِشَةَ رَضِيَ اللَّهُ عَنْهَا قَالَتْ: قَالَ النَّبِيُّ ﷺ: تَخَلَّلُوا فَإِنَّهُ نَظَافَةٌ، وَالنَّظَافَةُ تَدْعُو إِلَى الْإِيمَانِ، وَالْإِيمَانُ مَعَ صَاحِبِهِ فِي الْجَنَّةِ Sayyidatuna Aishah رَضِيَ ٱللَّٰهُ عَنْهَا narrated: The Beloved Prophet ﷺ said: “Clean between your teeth, for it is cleanliness. Cleanliness leads to faith, and faith leads its possessor to Paradise.” — (Tabarani, Al-Mu'jam al-Awsat, Hadith: 7613)

If one does not wash hands after eating, they have only themselves to blame for the harm

عَنْ أَبِي هُرَيْرَةَ، قَالَ: قَالَ رَسُولُ اللَّهِ صلی اللہ علیہ وسلم : مَنْ نَامَ وَفِي يَدِهِ غَمَرٌ وَلَمْ يَغْسِلْهُ، فَأَصَابَهُ شَيْءٌ فَلَا يَلُومَنَّ إِلَّا نَفْسَهُ Sayyiduna Abu Hurairah رَضِيَ ٱللَّٰهُ عَنْهُ narrated: The Messenger of Allah ﷺ said: “Whoever sleeps while there are traces of food (grease) on his hands and he has not washed them, and then something harms him, he should blame no one but himself.” — (Sunan Abi Dawood, Hadith: 3852) This hadith highlights just how important it is to wash one's hands after eating. Neglecting to clean the hands after a meal can even lead to harm.

Encouragement to Clean the Mouth After Eating

عَنْ عَبْدِ اللَّهِ بْنِ عَبَّاسٍ، قَالَ: قَالَ رَسُولُ اللَّهِ صلی اللہ علیہ وسلم : "إِذَا أَكَلْتُمْ شَيْئًا فَتَمَضْمَضُوا، فَإِنَّ ذَلِكَ أَنْقَى لِفِيكُمْ وَأَطْيَبُ Sayyiduna Abdullah bin Abbas رَضِيَ ٱللَّٰهُ عَنْهُ narrated: The Messenger of Allah ﷺ said: “When you eat something, rinse your mouth, for it is cleaner for your mouth and more pleasant.” — (Sunan Ibn Majah, Hadith: 404)

The Beloved Prophet ﷺ’s Care for Cleanliness Before and After Meals

It is authentically reported that the Noble Prophet ﷺ also practiced washing his hands before eating, as part of maintaining cleanliness. Sayyidatuna Aishah رَضِيَ ٱللَّٰهُ عَنْهَا narrated: وَإِذَا أَرَادَ أَنْ يَأْكُلَ غَسَلَ يَدَيْهِ “And when the Holy Prophet ﷺ intended to eat, he would wash his hands.” — (Sunan al-Nasa’i, Hadith: 256)

The practice of cleanliness after relieving oneself

Cleanliness and purity are fundamental aspects of Islamic life, and maintaining cleanliness after answering the call of nature is a necessary requirement of the religion of Islam. The Noble Prophet ﷺ declared physical purity essential for spiritual growth and good health. The etiquette of using the restroom, the principles of purification, and attention to cleanliness are not only necessary for outward hygiene but are also a key condition for the acceptance of worship in Islam. The Shari’ah has emphasized cleanliness and purity without placing hardship on the believer. Allah Almighty says in the Holy Qur’an: مَا یُرِیْدُ اللّٰهُ لِیَجْعَلَ عَلَیْكُمْ مِّنْ حَرَجٍ وَّ لٰـكِنْ یُّرِیْدُ لِیُطَهِّرَكُمْ “Allah does not will to place any hardship upon you. Yes; He wills to purify you totally.” — (Surah Al-Ma’idah, 5:6) And regarding those who maintain cleanliness, Allah Almighty says: إِنَّ اللَّهَ يُحِبُّ التَّوَّابِينَ وَيُحِبُّ الْمُتَطَهِّرِينَ “Indeed, Allah loves those who repent abundantly and loves those who purify themselves.” — (Surah Al-Baqarah, 2:222)

Ensuring cleanliness after urination

The Noble Prophet ﷺ emphasized cleanliness after relieving oneself — particularly after urination — to such an extent that he ﷺ declared not protecting oneself from urine splashes as a cause of the punishment of the grave. There is a Hadith: عَنْ أَبِي هُرَيْرَةَ رَضِيَ اللَّهُ عَنْهُ، قَالَ: قَالَ رَسُولُ اللَّهِ صَلَّى اللهُ عَلَيْهِ وَسَلَّمَ: أَكْثَرُ عَذَابِ الْقَبْرِ مِنَ الْبَوْلِ It is narrated from Sayyiduna Abu Hurairah رَضِيَ اللهُ عَنْهُ that the Messenger of Allahﷺ said: "The punishment of the grave is mostly due to urine." (Al-Mustadrak by al-Hākim, Ḥadīth 653) In another narration, the Holy Prophet ﷺ specifically instructed to guard oneself against urine splashes: عَامَّةُ عَذَابِ الْقَبْرِ مِنَ الْبَوْلِ فَتَنَزَّهُوا مِنَ الْبَوْلِ Translation: “The majority of the punishment of the grave is due to urine, so protect yourselves from urine splashes.” (Sunan al-Dāraqutnī, Ḥadīth 466)

The Beloved Prophet’s ﷺ Emphasis on Cleanliness After Relieving Oneself

Narration: عَنْ عَطَاءِ بْنِ أَبِي مَيْمُونَةَ، سَمِعَ أَنَسَ بْنَ مَالِكٍ، يَقُولُ كَانَ رَسُولُ اللَّهِ صَلَّى اللهُ عَلَيْهِ وَسَلَّمَ «يَدْخُلُ الخَلاَءَ، فَأَحْمِلُ أَنَا وَغُلاَمٌ إِدَاوَةً مِنْ مَاءٍ وَعَنَزَةً، يَسْتَنْجِي بِالْمَاءِ It is narrated from ʿAta bin Abi Maymunah that he heard Sayyiduna Anas bin Mālik رَضِيَ اللهُ عَنْهُ say: "When the Messenger of Allah ﷺ would go to relieve himself, another servant and I would carry a container of water and a small stick. The Beloved Prophet ﷺ would perform istinjā’ (purify himself) with water." (Sahih al-Bukhari, Hadith 152)

Global days observed in the name of cleanliness and the truth of Islam

Before the advent of Islam, Arab society was deeply immersed in numerous social and moral evils. Along with these, physical and environmental filth and impurity had also become an inseparable part of their lives. In their uncivilized tribal lifestyle, there was no concept of cleanliness or refinement. Their way of living and daily habits were not bound by any principles. Bathing was considered an unnecessary act. It is also understood from hadith that filth was widespread among the Jews of Arabia, and they did not give importance to cleanliness in their homes. The Noble Prophet ﷺ said: أَفْنِيَتَكُمْ وَلَا تَشَبَّهُوا بِاليَهُودِ Translation: “Keep your houses clean and do not follow the ways of the Jews.” (Jami Tirmidhi, Hadith 2799) From this hadith, it becomes clear that the Jews did not keep their houses clean. Therefore, the Beloved Prophet ﷺ instructed not to resemble them. Thus, just as Islam granted spiritual purity, refined character, and introduced people to civilization, it also taught the principles of health and hygiene. It taught human beings proper manners of living, sitting, and dressing. Hence, the Qur’an contains numerous verses related to cleanliness and purity. Allah Almighty says: وَثِيَابَكَ فَطَهِّرْ Translation: “And keep your clothes pure.” (Surah Al-Muddaththir, Ayah 4, Juz 30) At another place, Allah Almighty says: يَا بَنِي آدَمَ خُذُوا زِينَتَكُمْ عِندَ كُلِّ مَسْجِدٍ Translation: “O children of Adam! Adorn yourself when you go to the Masjid.” (Surah Al-A’raf, Ayah 31, Juz 8) These verses indicate that in Islam, along with spiritual purity, physical cleanliness and purity are also of great importance. Allah loves those who repent and turn to Him, and who also keep themselves physically pure and clean. It is evident that the Qur’an instructed Muslims to keep their clothes clean, to adorn themselves for every prayer, and to adopt cleanliness and refinement—because before Islam, Arab society was very distant from cleanliness. That society, which was made up of Jews, idol-worshippers, and Christians, did not give any importance to health or physical purity. They would keep their homes, neighborhoods, and even their own bodies dirty. The Canadian writer Katherine Ashenburg, in her book The Dirt on Clean, writes: “Many early priests embraced filth with great enthusiasm. A Christian monastery head once warned his monks: ‘A clean body and clean clothes mean an impure soul.’ In Spain, bathing was considered a sign of evil. Therefore, when government investigators (police) discovered that an accused person used to bathe, they had no doubt left regarding his guilt, because in their belief, a person who bathes cannot be good. Similarly, church priests would not forgive the sins of a person once they came to know that he was in the habit of bathing.” However, Islam from the very beginning declared bathing as the fundamental means of physical purification, and in certain specific circumstances even made it obligatory. With the coming of Islam, discipline entered the lives of Muslims. Islam taught them the principles of keeping the body clean. The Holy Prophet ﷺ, in the light of the Qur’an, not only provided Muslims with religious and moral guidance but also instructed them to remain clean, to keep their clothes and homes pure, to maintain the cleanliness of roads, and to take care of their surroundings. Other religions and faiths do not provide such beautiful teachings regarding cleanliness. Yet, if we observe today, followers of other religions have been compelled to bring their nations toward cleanliness. For this purpose, they have even turned cleanliness into a fashion or a festival, and various days are now observed internationally for the promotion of cleanliness.

World Cleanup Day

On September 16, 2008, fifty thousand people gathered in Estonia to clean the entire country within just five hours. This initiative inspired people across the world to do the same. Interest grew around the idea of “One country, one day.” Since its inception, more than 70 million volunteers from 191 countries have participated in World Cleanup Day. From then on, September 16 began to be observed worldwide as World Cleanup Day.

World Environment Day

World Environment Day is observed every year on June 5. The purpose of this day is to raise awareness about the dangers faced by the environment due to increasing pollution levels and climate change. The first World Environment Day was observed in 1974, which provided a global platform for bringing about positive change for the environment.

World Water Day

It is a fact that after environmental cleanliness, the most essential need of human life is pure and clean water. Water is undoubtedly highly beneficial for health, but when it becomes contaminated, it turns extremely harmful. Drinking polluted water can cause diseases such as cholera, diarrhea, dysentery, and jaundice. There is no doubt that water is a fundamental necessity of life. Its proper and sufficient use protects us from many illnesses. However, the tragedy is that the world today is facing a shortage of water. We are all aware of the importance of water for survival, yet unfortunately, due to air pollution and several other factors, the provision of clean water has become a critical issue. Wastage of water has also added to this problem. For this reason, every year on March 22, World Water Day is observed. Its purpose is to highlight the importance of water, draw attention to the difficulties faced by humanity due to the scarcity of clean water, and encourage people to drink safe and pure water.

Earth Day

Every year on April 22, International Mother Earth Day is observed. This day is dedicated to raising awareness about the excessive rise in pollution and other harmful activities that directly or indirectly damage the environment and ultimately lead to the destruction of the planet. The idea of this day emerged after facing various challenges such as pollution, with smog (caused especially by smoke and cigarette consumption) becoming a major reason for environmental damage.

Global Handwashing Day

Global Handwashing Day is observed worldwide every year on October 15. It is an international campaign aimed at raising awareness among people across the globe about the importance of washing hands and its impact on health. The observance of this day began in 2008.

World Toilet Day

World Toilet Day was established to highlight the challenges faced by billions of people across the world due to inadequate sanitation facilities. This day emphasizes the essential role that toilets play in maintaining public and environmental health, as they help prevent the spread of deadly diseases such as cholera. Currently, 3.5 billion people still live without sustainable sanitation, while around 419 million people worldwide are forced to defecate in the open. This shows the urgent need for proper sanitation services. For this reason, every year on November 19, World Toilet Day is formally observed by the United Nations, with the purpose of raising global awareness about the severe sanitation crisis and encouraging practical action. Since its initiation in 2013, this day has been dedicated to stressing the importance of safe and accessible toilets. The few international days related to cleanliness mentioned here are only some among many that are observed worldwide. It is evident that the origin of such observances did not come from Muslims. The reason is that Islam itself has already given Muslims a complete system of cleanliness. In worship, dealings, and social life, Islam placed great emphasis on the system of purity and cleanliness. This alone is sufficient as proof of the truth of Islam—that the guidance the world is only beginning to recognize today was already given to Muslims fourteen hundred years ago. May Allah Almighty grant us the true zeal to follow the Seerah of the Holy Prophet ﷺ, and may He bless us with the ability to adopt both outward and inward purity and cleanliness. Ameen.