In the Name of Allāh.
Did you know that Ghusl Al-Jumu’ah (i.e. the Friday ritual bath) was born out of Prophet Muḥammad’s concern (ﷺ) for personal hygiene? He once noticed that some people at the Masjid had a not-so-pleasant smell and encouraged them to take a bath and apply their best oils and perfumes before Friday prayer.
He (ﷺ) said: “O people! When this day (Friday) comes, you should take a bath and every one of you should anoint himself with the best oil and perfume he has…” [Sunan Abī Dāwūd 353]
This tradition underscores the importance of cleanliness in Islām, and it’s a pointer to the fact that dirtiness is not obtainable therein. Thence, Islām is not blameworthy whatsoever for a person’s uncleanliness.
Notably, maintaining personal hygiene and dressing well to Jumu’ah is not just about keeping yourself presentable but also about respecting those around you because no one should harm others, especially during the Friday prayer. This also accounts for the Prophet’s statement (ﷺ) regarding going to the Masjid immediately after eating garlic.
Jābir Ibn ‘Abdullāh reported: The Prophet (ﷺ) said, “Whoever eats onions, garlic, or leeks should not approach our mosque, for the angels are offended by whatever offends the children of Ādam.” [Ṣaḥīḥ Muslim 564]
Therefore, on this day, let’s honor this tradition and give ourselves the royal treatment! Take a refreshing bath, spritz on some perfume, and walk into the Masjid with the joy and dignity of a true Muslim. More so, let’s remember to keep up these hygiene habits even beyond Friday, for they are a reflection of our faith and our respect for Allāh.
I beseech Allāh to guide us to follow the footsteps of our beloved Prophet (ﷺ) and bless us with the wisdom and insight to fully embrace the Islāmic dictates. Ameen!
Picture Credit: Gettyimage
