Allah's Messenger (ﷺ) said, "If I had not found it hard for my followers or the people, I would have ordered them to clean their teeth with Siwak for every prayer."
The Excellence of Siwak in Prayer
This noble hadith from Sahih al-Bukhari (887) demonstrates the profound concern of the Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) for his ummah's spiritual and physical purity. The siwak, a teeth-cleaning twig from the arak tree, serves both as a means of oral hygiene and an act of sunnah that pleases Allah.
Scholarly Commentary on the Hadith
Imam al-Nawawi explains that this hadith indicates the high merit of using siwak at all times, particularly for prayer. The Prophet's reluctance to make it obligatory stems from his merciful nature, avoiding hardship for the community while still emphasizing its great virtue.
Ibn Hajar al-Asqalani in Fath al-Bari notes that the siwak removes bad odors, purifies the mouth, and pleases the Lord. It is especially recommended when the mouth's condition changes—upon waking, before prayer, after eating, and when reciting Quran.
Practical Application
Though not obligatory, the consistent use of siwak before prayers remains a strongly recommended sunnah. Scholars differ on whether it's mustahabb (recommended) for every prayer or specifically for prayers where Quran recitation occurs. The wisdom behind this practice includes preparing oneself to stand before Allah in the best state of cleanliness and making one's worship more complete.