Importance of Cleanliness on Friday

The Importance of Cleanliness on Friday: A Hadith from Sahih Al-Bukhari

Narrated Aishah (RA), the wife of the Prophet (PBUH): The people used to come from their abodes and from Al-Awali (outskirts of Al-Madina up to a distance of four miles or more from Al-Madina). 

They used to pass through dust and used to be drenched with sweat and covered with dust; so, sweat used to trickle from them. One of them came to Allah's Messenger (PBUH) who was in my house. 

The Prophet (PBUH) said to him, I wish that you keep yourself pure and clean on this day of yours.

Explanation and Lessons

This hadith highlights just how crucial purity and cleanliness are, particularly on Fridays, the day of Jumuah prayer. Back in the time of the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH), many of his companions would travel for long hours, often arriving dusty and sweaty from their journeys.

Despite this, the Prophet (PBUH) urged them to keep themselves clean as a sign of respect for this holy day. 

The essence of the message remains relevant today: preparing for Jumuah isn't merely about showing up; it’s also about presenting oneself to Allah in a state of purity and cleanliness.

Engaging in acts like taking a bath (ghusl), dressing in tidy clothes, and applying perfume when possible are all part of the Sunnah for Friday prayers.

Conclusion

The hadith shared by Aishah (RA) highlights a key principle: cleanliness is a fundamental aspect of faith, especially on the sacred day of Friday.

It encourages Muslims to approach Jumuah with respect and preparation arriving clean and pure, ready to stand in prayer before Allah.

Embracing this Sunnah not only promotes good personal hygiene but also uplifts the spiritual vibe of the gathered community.

Hadith Reference:

Source: Sahih Al-Bukhari

Hadith No: 902

Volume: 02

Page No: 32

Book: The Book of Al Jumuah (Friday)

Chapter: From where (distance) should one present oneself for the Jumuah prayer and for whom is the Jumuah prayer complusory?

Narrated By: Aishah (RA:)

Translator: Dr. Muhammad Muhsin Khan