Food, Meals - Sahih al-Bukhari 5452

The Prophet (ﷺ) said, "Whoever has eaten garlic or onion should keep away from us (or should keep away from our mosque)."

Commentary on the Prohibition

This hadith establishes the prohibition against attending congregational prayers while emitting offensive odors from consuming garlic or onions. The wisdom behind this prohibition lies in protecting fellow worshippers from discomfort during prayer, as offensive smells can distract from devotion and concentration in acts of worship.

Scholars explain that this ruling applies particularly to raw garlic and onions, as cooking typically reduces their strong odor. The prohibition extends to any substance producing similarly offensive smells that may cause annoyance to angels and fellow believers in places of worship.

Juridical Rulings Derived

According to classical scholars, this hadith indicates the makruh (disliked) status of attending mosques after consuming such foods. Some jurists consider it haram (forbidden) if the odor is strong enough to disturb others.

The prohibition applies specifically to congregational prayers in mosques. One may pray individually at home after consuming such foods. The restriction remains in effect until the offensive odor dissipates completely.

Spiritual Dimensions

This teaching emphasizes Islam's concern for communal harmony and consideration for others' comfort. It demonstrates how Islamic law regulates even mundane matters like food consumption to preserve the sanctity of worship spaces and maintain good relations among believers.

The hadith also teaches Muslims to be mindful of their impact on others, cultivating social awareness and self-restraint as essential qualities of faith.