"The Messenger of Allah [SAW] said: 'Five things are of the Fitrah: Circumcision, shaving the pubes, plucking the armpit hair, clipping the nails and trimming the mustache.'"
The Book of Adornment - Sunan an-Nasa'i 5043
"The Messenger of Allah [SAW] said: 'Five things are of the Fitrah: Circumcision, shaving the pubes, plucking the armpit hair, clipping the nails and trimming the mustache.'"
Meaning of Fitrah
The term "Fitrah" refers to the primordial nature upon which Allah created mankind - the natural disposition inclined toward purity and righteousness. These five acts preserve the innate purity of human creation.
Scholarly Commentary
Circumcision (Khitan) serves both hygienic and spiritual purposes, marking one's entry into the covenant of Ibrahim (AS). Shaving pubic hair and plucking armpit hair prevent accumulation of impurities and odors. Clipping nails removes dirt and prevents harm. Trimming the mustache ensures cleanliness when eating and drinking, following the sunnah of distinguishing from polytheists.
Recommended Frequency
Scholars recommend performing these acts regularly: clipping nails and trimming mustache weekly, removing pubic and armpit hair at least every forty days, as these timeframes prevent neglect of personal hygiene.
Spiritual Significance
These acts are not merely hygienic but constitute acts of worship when performed with the intention of following the Prophetic guidance. They purify the body, which is a trust from Allah, and prepare the Muslim for prayer and other acts of worship in a state of physical and spiritual cleanliness.