Abu Huraira reported God’s messenger as saying, “When a Muslim, or a believer, washes his face in the course of ablution, every sin he contemplated with his eyes will come forth from his face along with the water, or with the last drop of water; when he washes his hands, every sin they wrought will come forth from his hands with the water, or with the last drop of water; and when he washes his feet, every sin towards which his feet have walked will come out with the water, or with the last drop of water, with the result that he will come forth pure from offences.” Muslim transmitted it.
Purification - Mishkat al-Masabih 285
This noble hadith from Sahih Muslim, transmitted by the esteemed companion Abu Huraira, reveals the profound spiritual dimensions of physical purification. The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) illuminates how the external act of ablution (wudu) serves as a means for internal purification from sins.
Theological Commentary
The specification of "Muslim or believer" indicates this blessing encompasses both the foundational and perfected states of faith. The washing of each limb corresponds to the sins committed through that particular faculty - the eyes for sinful gazes, hands for unlawful actions, and feet for steps toward disobedience.
The phrase "with the water, or with the last drop of water" demonstrates Allah's comprehensive mercy, ensuring no trace of sin remains. This parallels the physical purification where water removes all physical impurities.
Spiritual Dimensions
This hadith teaches that sins are not merely abstract records but have a tangible connection to our physical being. The water of ablution becomes a vehicle for divine forgiveness when accompanied by sincere repentance.
The culmination "he will come forth pure from offences" indicates a spiritual rebirth with each ablution, provided one maintains the proper intention (niyyah) and reflects upon this profound reality during the ritual.
Practical Implications
Scholars emphasize that this purification primarily applies to minor sins, as major sins require specific repentance. The hadith encourages believers to perform ablution with mindfulness and gratitude for this divine mercy.
This teaching transforms the routine act of washing into an opportunity for spiritual renewal, making every ablution a means of drawing closer to Allah through both physical and spiritual cleanliness.