Originally posted 2024-05-07 20:00:36.

Performing ablution not only cleanses the vital parts of the body from dirt and dust but also softens and refreshes them.

Islam and the Concept of Purification

Islam is a religion of cleanliness and purification. It affirms that every human being is born in a state of natural purity, known as fitrah. Maintaining purity is both a fundamental and essential part of faith. Abu Malik Al-Ash‘ari (may Allah be pleased with him) reported that the Messenger of Allah (peace be upon him) said:

“Purity is half of iman (faith).” (Muslim)

Islam gives great attention to both external and internal purification.
Internal purification refers to cleansing the heart of negative traits such as stinginess, envy, hatred, and hypocrisy.

A Muslim must be ritually clean to perform the five daily prayers. Without purification, prayer is invalid, as Almighty Allah has made it a precondition for the prayer. The Qur’an states:

“O you who have believed, when you rise to [perform] prayer, wash your faces and your forearms to the elbows and wipe over your heads and wash your feet to the ankles.”
(Al-Ma’idah 5:6)

Ablution (wudu’) is a distinct characteristic of the Muslim nation. Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) said:

“On the Day of Resurrection, my Ummah (followers) will be summoned with white faces and white hands and feet due to the traces of ablution.”
(Al-Bukhari and Muslim)

What Is Ablution (Wudu’) in Islam?

Ablution is the act of washing specific parts of the body with water. Muslims are required to perform it before offering ritual prayers. Based on the verse mentioned above, ablution includes the following steps:

1. Washing the hands up to the elbows

2. Washing the face

3. Wiping over the head

4. Washing the feet up to the ankles

There are additional voluntary acts that the Prophet (peace be upon him) used to perform during ablution, such as rinsing the mouth and inhaling water into the nostrils.

Spiritual and Psychological Dimensions of Ablution

Performing ablution, especially after hard work or travel, revives the body and brings mental clarity, preparing a Muslim to enter a state of focus for prayer.
Ablution is not merely a physical act of washing; it has a profound impact on one’s psychological and spiritual state.

It plays a vital role in the life of a Muslim, helping maintain vitality, awareness, and spiritual alertness. The Prophet (peace be upon him) said:

“He who performs ablution perfectly—his sins will depart from his body, even from under his nails.”
(Muslim)

Scientific and Medical Benefits of Ablution

Modern science has confirmed several health benefits of regular ablution:

1. Cleansing Vital Parts: Removes dirt and dust from essential body parts and helps refresh and soften the skin.

2. Nasal Hygiene: Inhaling water into the nostrils expels trapped germs and dust, reducing the risk of infection.

3. Facial Care: Washing the face protects the skin and reduces fatigue. Regular ablution contributes to maintaining facial freshness and beauty with age.

4. Oral Health: Rinsing the mouth removes food particles, helping prevent dental problems and bad breath.

5. Ear Hygiene: Washing the ears helps eliminate excess wax and prevents infections like mastoiditis.

6. Cancer Prevention: The areas washed during ablution are the most exposed to pollutants. Regular washing helps protect them, potentially reducing the risk of skin conditions, including cancer.

7. Stimulating Blood Circulation: Washing with water invigorates blood vessels, nerves, and glands near the skin’s surface, improving their function.

8. Foot Care: Washing between the toes is essential for foot hygiene, especially since modern footwear can trap moisture and promote fungal infections like athlete’s foot.

When Else Is Ablution Recommended?

Beyond prayer, it is recommended to perform ablution in various situations, including:

• Before going to bed

• Before reciting the Qur’an

• When entering a mosque

• Before making the call to prayer (adhan)

• Before delivering a sermon (khutbah)

• After visiting a graveyard

• After handling a deceased person

Conclusion

There is divine wisdom and mercy behind all of Allah’s rulings. Whether we understand them fully or not, these acts are prescribed for our physical, mental, and spiritual well-being. Ablution exemplifies how Islamic practices not only connect us with our Creator but also nurture our health and inner peace.

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References:

1- Salem, Mukhtar, Prayers: A sport for the soul and body, CAIRO, The Arab Modern Center (1990), pg. 52.

2- www.nestle-waters.com