The Excellence of Fitra Practices

The noble hadith from Sahih al-Bukhari 5890 establishes five acts of natural disposition (Fitra) that purify the believer and align with human nature as created by Allah.

Scholarly Commentary on Fitra

Ibn Hajar al-Asqalani explains in Fath al-Bari that Fitra refers to the primordial nature upon which Allah created humanity, encompassing both innate spiritual disposition and physical cleanliness practices that distinguish humans from animals.

Al-Nawawi states in Sharh Sahih Muslim that these practices remove impurities, maintain hygiene, and perfect one's appearance in accordance with Islamic teachings, reflecting both physical and spiritual purity.

Specific Rulings on Pubic Hair

The scholars agree that removing pubic hair is wajib (obligatory) and should be done at least every forty days, as established in other authentic narrations. This practice prevents accumulation of impurities and maintains personal hygiene.

Ibn Qudamah in al-Mughni emphasizes that removal may be by shaving, plucking, or using depilatory creams, with shaving being the most common method mentioned in the texts.

Wisdom Behind These Practices

These acts serve multiple purposes: they distinguish Muslims in their appearance, maintain cleanliness which is half of faith, prevent diseases, and reduce unpleasant odors that may disturb others during prayer and social interactions.

The collective practice of these aspects of Fitra contributes to the unique identity of the Muslim community while promoting health and cleanliness as integral parts of faith.