Cleanliness and Friday Etiquette in Islam

Importance of Cleanliness and Etiquette on Friday (Jumuah)

Introduction

Friday, known as Jumuah, is a significant day in Islam. It's a day filled with blessings where Muslims come together for the special Friday prayer, participate in the Khutbah, or sermon, and earnestly seek Allah’s mercy and forgiveness.

The Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) underscored the spiritual importance of Jumuah, but he also highlighted the need for personal cleanliness, good behavior, and being attentive during the Khutbah. The following authentic Hadiths from Sahih al-Bukhari shed light on these important practices.

Narrated Salman Al-Farisi (RA): Allah's Messenger (PBUH) said:

Allah's Messenger (PBUH) said, Anyone who takes a bath on Friday and cleanse himself as much as he can and puts oil (on his hair) or scents himself; and then proceeds for the Salat (prayer) and does not separate two persons [sitting together in a mosque for the Salat-ul-Jumuah (Jumuah prayer)], and offers Salat (prayer) as much as is written for him and remains quiet when the Imam delivers the Khutba (religious talk), all his sins in-between the present and the last Friday will be forgiven.

Lessons from These Hadiths

Bathing on Friday is Sunnah: It represents cleanliness and a deep regard for the gathering of the congregation.

Use of oil and fragrance: It's really important to keep up with your personal grooming.

Respect for others: Try not to break up groups of people who are sitting together in the mosque.

Attentiveness during Khutbah: Being silent and concentrating are vital forms of devotion.

Weekly forgiveness: By following these practices, one can find forgiveness for their wrongdoings from one Friday to the next.

Conclusion

The teachings shared through the Hadiths by Salman Al-Farisi (RA) and Aishah (RA) shed light on the Prophet’s (PBUH) guidance regarding cleanliness, personal grooming, and proper behavior during the Friday prayer.

Jumuah is not just a day filled with spiritual blessings; it’s also an opportunity to embrace discipline, show respect, and maintain purity.

By adhering to these Sunnahs, Muslims are able to seek forgiveness, deepen their faith, and pay tribute to the cherished day of Jumuah.

Hadith Reference:

Source: Sahih Al-Bukhari

Hadith No: 910

Volume: 02

Page No: 35

Book: The Book of Al Jumuah (Friday)

Chapter: One should not separate two persons (sitting together in a row) on Fridays.

Narrated By: Slaman Al-Farisi (RA:)

Translator: Dr. Muhammad Muhsin Khan