Cleanliness is not merely an essential component of faith but also a necessary state and habit of keeping your body free from dirt, germs, trash or any filth, and the maintaining of this habit. It is definitely a desirable attribute to have for not just one’s personal well-being but something that also impacts social and communal lives. The last few years, following the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic, have especially caused a rapid increase in the awareness regarding one’s physical cleanliness and also introduced previously unseen products in the market that facilitate the act of cleaning and encourage one to be free from any form of dirt or filth.
Islam as a religion, not just emphasizes on the importance of cleanliness, but marks it as an obligation for most forms of worship. When viewed from a religious perspective, the word ‘purity’ is employed in the discussion of cleanliness. Islam calls not just for physical cleanliness but also moral and spiritual cleanliness.
Importance of Cleanliness in Islam
The importance of cleanliness in Islam has been emphasized in several places in the Quran and the Hadith. While spiritual cleansing is of equal importance if not more, the mentioned references pertain more to the physical aspect of cleanliness in Islam. The Quran connects purity and cleanliness to worship and the love of Allah SWT.
‘…Truly, Allah loves those who turn to Him constantly and He loves those who keep themselves pure and clean’ (2:222).
‘…In it [mosque] are men who love to clean and to purify themselves. And Allah loves those who make themselves clean and pure’ (9:108).
The significance of cleanliness in hadith can be seen in the words of the Prophet ﷺ, in the concise manner that was characteristic of his speech:
Cleanliness is half of faith. (Sahih Muslim Book 2, Number 0432)
It is noteworthy to mention that the Books of Hadith and those of Islamic jurisprudence begin with the chapter on cleanliness with the word Taharah, marking the subject as one of extreme significance. The usage of water as well as its wastage has been discussed in great detail in this chapter. Islam also lays stress upon oral hygiene through its mention of Miswak (toothbrush) and the virtue using it five times a day.
Islam not only underscores the importance of personal hygiene but also calls for keeping one’s clothes, houses and surroundings clean. In fact, pure body, clothes and premises are a pre-requisite for prayers. Moreover, Islam has also highlighted the cleanliness of the roads and streets. The Prophet ﷺ has cautioned against making the roads and the streets filthy, saying:
‘Beware of the three acts that cause others to curse you: relieving yourselves in a watering place, on foot paths or shaded places.’ (Abu Dawud, No 26)
From a communal perspective, cleanliness is the channel to a strong and healthy Muslim society, with good immunity against diseases, which is capable of comprehending the message of Islam, acting upon its laws and rulings and conveying it to all mankind for that is the purpose of the Muslim Ummah. Indeed, Allah SWT says in the Quran:
‘You are the best community that hath been raised up for mankind, enjoining what is right, forbidding what is wrong, and believing In Allah.’ (3:110)
Tips for Maintaining Hygiene on the Go
- Washing Hands
We all have seen an emphatic focus on washing our hands these past few years and with good reason. Travelling brings you in contact with infected surfaces and washing hands frequently can help keep you clean and healthy. The Shariah also places immense importance of washing of the hands especially before meals. Even the ablution for prayer starts from the practice of washing hands.
- Sanitize on the move
At times, being on the move means no access to water but that does not mean that you stop working on your hygiene and keeping yourself clean. Carrying sanitizer, wipes and anti-bacterial sprays go a long way in effectively eliminating any germs or bacteria that otherwise might have come in contact with your hands and become a source of harm.
- Trim Your Nails
Delaying cutting your nails might not seem like a big deal but many people often disregard the fact that having longer fingers means providing refuge to germs, bacteria and dirt. It is definitely advisable to trim your nails and toenails before travelling to avoid the chance of hosting any germs in your nails.
- Make A Hygiene Bag
A very effective idea for keeping clean during travels would be to keep a Hygiene Bag in your hand carry. Make sure you have all your necessities packed in a bag that is easy to access and has room enough to fit travel sized bottles of handwash, sanitizer, soap, shampoo, sunscreen, moisturizer and other items that would be of major assistance when maintaining hygiene can become a challenge. The ABDEEZ Portable Bidet is super handy whether you are traveling in a Muslim country or a non-Muslim one. This leak-proof and efficient device is portable and comes to the rescue when you are in urgent need of a Muslim shower.
Band-aids and bug repellents should also be a part of your kit, not to mention a complete roll of Toilet Roll and hand towels. It would be helpful to carry something like the ABDEEZ Portable Wudhu Towels which are a sustainable option to a disposable tissue roll and are quick drying and fast absorbing.
- Precautions While Eating
It is important to pay attention when you plan on eating while travelling. It is wise to glance around the place where you decide to have a meal and see if the place offers some modicum of hygiene. Hot dishes should be served piping hot which also eliminates the possibility of bacteria in the food. If one is sharing with friends, it is wise to use a separate plate and cutlery and avoid getting things where sharing can be detrimental, for example sharing a packet of crisps.
- Carrying a Wastebag
In addition to personal hygiene, it is important to be considerate of the environment and others around you. Carrying a conveniently sized trash bag to dispose of any used wipes, wrappers and tissues will surely be a major help in keeping the environment clean and reducing the spread of any potential germs or bacteria.
TL;DR:
Learn about the importance of cleanliness in Islam for personal well-being and society. Find practical tips for staying clean on the go, including handwashing, sanitizing, nail trimming, and carrying a hygiene kit while traveling. Maintain hygiene for a healthier and more fulfilling life.
BIBLIOGRAPHY
7 travel hygiene tips to keep you squeaky clean. goStops. (2021, September 16). https://gostops.com/blog/7-travel-hygiene-tips-to-keep-you-squeaky-clean/
Concept of cleanliness in Islam. DEOBAND ONLINE. (n.d.). http://www.deoband.net/blogs/concept-of-cleanliness-in-islam
Musofer, M. A. (2013, August 15). Importance of cleanliness. DAWN.COM. https://www.dawn.com/news/752560/importance-of-cleanliness
Staff, D. (2020, March 16). 7 tips for practising good hygiene whilst travelling. Drift Travel Magazine. https://drifttravel.com/7-tips-for-practising-good-hygiene-whilst-travelling/