Allah's Messenger (ﷺ) said, "If anyone of you goes to an open space for answering the call of nature he should neither face nor turn his back towards the Qibla; he should either face the east or the west."
Hadith Text
Allah's Messenger (ﷺ) said, "If anyone of you goes to an open space for answering the call of nature he should neither face nor turn his back towards the Qibla; he should either face the east or the west."
Reference: Sahih al-Bukhari 144
Commentary on the Prohibition
This hadith establishes a sacred etiquette for relieving oneself outdoors, prohibiting both facing and turning one's back toward the Qibla. The Qibla represents the spiritual direction of Muslim prayer toward the Ka'bah in Makkah, a place of immense sanctity.
Scholars explain that showing disrespect toward the Qibla direction, even in necessary acts, is forbidden out of reverence for this sacred orientation that unites Muslims in worship.
Juridical Analysis
The majority of scholars consider this prohibition applicable specifically in open areas without cover, while permitting facing or turning one's back to Qibla in enclosed bathrooms where the private parts are concealed.
The instruction to face east or west (in the Arabian context) provides practical alternatives that maintain respect for the Qibla direction while accommodating natural needs.
Spiritual Wisdom
This teaching instills constant awareness of Allah's presence, demonstrating that Islamic guidance encompasses all aspects of life, including seemingly mundane activities.
It cultivates spiritual mindfulness (muraqabah) where a Muslim remains conscious of sacred matters even during private moments, reinforcing the comprehensive nature of Islamic etiquette.