Part 1: Importance of Cleanliness
Praise be to Allah, the Lord of the worlds, who sent the prophets and revealed His books. Peace and blessings be upon Prophet Muhammad ﷺ, his family, companions, and followers. Allah loves believers who are clean and pure, both outside and inside. Cleanliness is part of being a good Muslim.
Some ways Islam teaches cleanliness are:
- Wudu (Ablution): Washing before prayer. This removes sins and raises your status with Allah.
- Ghusl (Full Body Wash): Especially on Fridays, before Jumu’ah (Friday prayer).
- Using the Miswak (tooth-stick): This keeps the mouth clean, fresh and is very beloved by Allah.
Part 2: Why Grooming and Cleanliness Matter
The Prophet ﷺ said that Allah loves beauty and neatness. It’s good to wear clean clothes and look nice for prayer, especially for Friday prayers. The Miswak is an important part of cleanliness:
- The Prophet ﷺ used it even when he was very sick.
- It cleans the mouth and pleases Allah.
Part 3: When to Use the Miswak
It’s best to use the Miswak in different situations:
- Before every prayer – keeps your mouth clean.
- Before wudu (ablution) – especially at the start.
- When entering the house – start with cleanliness.
- On Fridays – extra care for Friday prayer.
- Before reading Quran – keeps your mouth clean while reciting.
- When your mouth smells – after eating, fasting or long silence.
- When waking up at night – it’s Sunnah to freshen your mouth.
Even if you don’t have a Miswak, you can use a toothbrush or clean your teeth in some way. The important thing is to keep the mouth clean and have the right intention.
Part 4: Cleanliness is for Everyone
The Miswak is recommended for:
- Men and women
- Adults and children
- People who are fasting
- All prayers, obligatory or voluntary
Always do it with the intention of pleasing Allah. Even using toothpaste and a toothbrush counts if your intention is to clean your mouth. But this does not replace the Miswak entirely because it is used in many specific Sunnah situations.
Part 5: Reminder
Cleanliness is loved by Allah and is part of being a good Muslim. Teach your family and friends to follow this Sunnah so it is not forgotten.
Dua (Supplication)
“O Allah, help us remember You, thank You, and worship You in the best way. Guide us to do what is right and protect us from harm.”
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