Hadith Text and Reference

The Messenger of Allah (ﷺ) sat with us and my thigh was uncovered. He said: Do you not know that thigh is a private part?

Book: Hot Baths (Kitab Al-Hammam)

Author: Sunan Abi Dawud

Reference: Sunan Abi Dawud 4014

Scholarly Commentary

This hadith establishes the legal ruling that the thigh ('fakhidh' in Arabic) is considered among the 'awrah (private parts) that must be covered. The Prophet's (ﷺ) rhetorical question emphasizes the obligation's clarity and importance.

Classical scholars like Imam Nawawi and Ibn Hajar al-Asqalani explain that this ruling applies to both men and women in mixed gatherings, though women have additional covering requirements. The thigh's inclusion as 'awrah necessitates its covering during prayer and in public settings.

The context in Kitab Al-Hammam indicates this ruling's particular relevance in bathhouses and changing areas, where people might become negligent about proper covering. The Prophet's gentle admonition demonstrates the Islamic principle of modesty while maintaining compassionate education.

Juridical Implications

According to the majority of scholars from the Hanafi, Maliki, Shafi'i, and Hanbali schools, the thigh is part of the 'awrah for men and must be covered during prayer. Some early scholars held differing opinions, but this hadith provides strong evidence for the majority position.

The ruling extends beyond prayer to general public life, reflecting Islam's comprehensive approach to modesty and dignity. This teaching aims to cultivate haya' (modesty) within the Muslim community, which the Prophet described as a branch of faith.