Abu Qatada reported God’s messenger as saying, "When one of you drinks he must not breathe into the vessel, and when he goes to relieve himself he must not touch his penis with his right hand, or wipe himself with his right hand.” (Bukhari and Muslim.)
Purification: Mishkat al-Masabih 340
In the name of God, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful. This noble hadith from the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) contains two profound teachings regarding purification and etiquette. The first concerns drinking manners, while the second addresses bathroom conduct - both fundamental to Islamic hygiene and spiritual refinement.
Prohibition of Breathing into Vessels
The prohibition against breathing into drinking vessels serves multiple wisdoms. Firstly, it prevents contamination of the drink through breath particles, maintaining physical purity. Secondly, it demonstrates respect for what God has provided, treating sustenance with dignity. Thirdly, it prevents discomfort for others who might drink afterward. The scholars explain this applies to all beverages, particularly when sharing containers.
Ibn Hajar al-Asqalani comments in Fath al-Bari that this prohibition includes both exhaling and inhaling while drinking from the vessel, as both actions can introduce impurities. The proper method is to remove the vessel from one's mouth between sips, breathing normally away from the container.
Etiquette of Relieving Oneself
The prohibition against using the right hand for intimate cleansing preserves the honor of the right hand, which is used for noble actions like eating, drinking, giving and receiving, and shaking hands. Imam Nawawi states in Sharh Sahih Muslim that this teaching instills constant awareness of God's presence, even in private moments.
Al-Qurtubi explains that the right hand's dignity stems from its association with honorable deeds, while the left is designated for cleaning impurities. This distinction maintains spiritual and physical hygiene, reflecting the comprehensive nature of Islamic teachings that govern all aspects of human life.
Spiritual Dimensions
These rulings transcend mere physical hygiene, serving as constant reminders of God's presence. They train the believer in mindfulness (muraqaba) and self-discipline, transforming mundane acts into worship through obedience to divine commandments.
Ibn Rajab al-Hanbali notes in Jami' al-Ulum wal-Hikam that such teachings demonstrate Islam's comprehensive guidance, covering both apparent and hidden aspects of life. The preservation of the right hand's purity symbolizes the believer's constant readiness to perform righteous deeds and engage in acts of worship.