`Abdur-Rahman bin Abi Bakr came holding a Siwak with which he was cleaning his teeth. Allah's Apostle looked at him. I requested `Abdur-Rahman to give the Siwak to me and after he gave it to me I divided it, chewed it and gave it to Allah's Messenger (ﷺ). Then he cleaned his teeth with it and (at that time) he was resting against my chest.
Hadith Commentary: The Virtue of Siwak
This narration from Sahih al-Bukhari (890) demonstrates the profound importance of oral hygiene in Islam. The siwak (tooth-cleaning stick) holds significant merit, being a practice beloved to Allah and His Messenger.
`Abdur-Rahman's action of cleaning his teeth indicates the companions' constant adherence to this sunnah. The Prophet's (ﷺ) gaze upon him conveyed approval and desire, showing that even great companions learn through observing the Prophet's subtle gestures.
Scholarly Insights
`Aisha's (RA) quick response in requesting the siwak, dividing it, softening it by chewing, and presenting it to the Prophet (ﷺ) exemplifies the companions' eagerness to serve him and facilitate his practice of sunnah.
The Prophet resting against `Aisha's chest while performing this purification ritual demonstrates the intimacy and comfort of their relationship, and shows that acts of worship can be performed in relaxed states.
This hadith establishes the siwak as a recommended act throughout the day, not just for prayer, and highlights the importance of dental hygiene as part of overall bodily purification (taharah) in Islam.
Legal Rulings Derived
Using siwak is a confirmed sunnah (sunnah mu'akkadah), especially before prayers and upon waking.
The permissibility of using another person's siwak after proper cleaning, as demonstrated by `Aisha's chewing it before giving to the Prophet (ﷺ).
The act shows the importance of being attentive to the needs and desires of righteous people, and the virtue of serving scholars and pious individuals.