Once the Prophet (ﷺ) remained behind us in a journey. He joined us while we were performing ablution for the prayer which was over-due. We were just passing wet hands over our feet (and not washing them properly) so the Prophet (ﷺ) addressed us in a loud voice and said twice or thrice: "Save your heels from the fire."
The Excellence of Proper Ablution
This narration from Sahih al-Bukhari 60 emphasizes the meticulous completion of wudu (ablution), particularly the washing of feet. The Prophet's repeated warning "Save your heels from the fire" indicates the gravity of neglecting this ritual purification.
Scholarly Commentary
Ibn Hajar al-Asqalani explains in Fath al-Bari that this hadith demonstrates the obligation of washing all parts of the foot during ablution, including the heels. The Companions' haste led to incomplete washing, warranting divine warning.
Al-Nawawi states in Sharh Sahih Muslim that this hadith proves the necessity of thoroughly washing the feet in wudu and that mere wiping (masah) is insufficient unless one has valid excuse.
Ibn al-Qayyim notes in Zad al-Ma'ad that the Prophet's specific mention of heels indicates they are commonly missed areas, requiring special attention during purification.
Legal Rulings Derived
The consensus of scholars holds that complete washing of the feet is obligatory (fard) in ablution. Any neglected part invalidates the wudu and consequently the prayer.
This hadith establishes that negligence in religious duties, even if unintentional, may lead to divine punishment, emphasizing the importance of learning proper ritual acts.
Spiritual Lessons
The Prophet's concern for his community's salvation is evident in his urgent repetition of the warning, teaching us the importance of gentle yet firm correction.
This incident illustrates that outward purification reflects inward purity, and negligence in physical acts of worship may indicate spiritual shortcomings.