Hadith Text & Context

Narrated Abu Huraira: The Prophet (ﷺ) came across me in one of the streets of Medina and at that time I was Junub. So I slipped away from him and went to take a bath. On my return the Prophet (ﷺ) said, "O Abu Huraira! Where have you been?" I replied, "I was Junub, so I disliked to sit in your company." The Prophet (ﷺ) said, "Subhan Allah! A believer never becomes impure." (Sahih al-Bukhari 283)

Scholarly Commentary

This hadith demonstrates the noble character of Abu Huraira's scrupulousness in avoiding the Prophet's company while in a state of major ritual impurity (janabah). His action reflects proper Islamic etiquette, though the Prophet's response provides crucial theological clarification.

The Prophet's exclamation "Subhan Allah!" expresses wonder at Abu Huraira's misunderstanding. The declaration "A believer never becomes impure" does not negate the reality of ritual impurity requiring ghusl, but affirms the essential spiritual purity of the believer's heart and faith. A Muslim remains pure in essence despite temporary ritual states.

Scholars explain this means the believer's fundamental nature remains pure, and ritual impurity is a temporary legal state requiring purification - not an inherent spiritual corruption. The believer's faith protects them from true spiritual defilement.

Legal Implications

This hadith confirms that while ghusl remains obligatory after janabah, casual social interaction with the pure is permissible before bathing. One may speak, walk streets, and conduct necessary affairs, though prayer and Quran recitation remain prohibited until purification.

The ruling differs from Jewish tradition where those with major impurity were completely isolated. Islam maintains balance between spiritual requirements and practical life necessities, emphasizing both outward purity and inward spiritual cleanliness.