"The Prophet (ﷺ) used to say: 'Allahumma tahhirni bith-thalji wal-barad wal-ma' al-barid, Allahumma tahhirni min adh-dhunub kama yutahhar ath-thawb al-abyad min ad-danas (O Allah, purify me with snow and hail and cold water, O Allah, purify me of sin as a white garment is cleansed of dirt)."
The Book of Ghusl and Tayammum - Sunan an-Nasa'i 403
"The Prophet (ﷺ) used to say: 'Allahumma tahhirni bith-thalji wal-barad wal-ma' al-barid, Allahumma tahhirni min adh-dhunub kama yutahhar ath-thawb al-abyad min ad-danas (O Allah, purify me with snow and hail and cold water, O Allah, purify me of sin as a white garment is cleansed of dirt)."
Linguistic Analysis
The supplication employs powerful natural imagery: "thalj" (snow) represents ultimate purity, "barad" (hail) signifies penetrating cleansing, and "ma' al-barid" (cold water) denotes refreshing purification. The comparison to a white garment ("ath-thawb al-abyad") being cleansed from dirt ("ad-danas") creates a vivid spiritual metaphor.
Juridical Context
This du'a is recommended during ghusl (ritual bath) following major impurity. The Prophet (ﷺ) taught this comprehensive purification encompassing both physical cleanliness through water and spiritual purification from sins. The combination of physical and spiritual purification reflects the holistic nature of Islamic worship.
Spiritual Dimensions
The supplication demonstrates that Islamic purification transcends mere physical cleanliness. By invoking Allah's power to purify sins as effectively as water cleanses physical impurities, the believer acknowledges that true purification comes only from Divine Grace. The white garment metaphor emphasizes the desired state of spiritual spotlessness.
Practical Application
Scholars recommend reciting this du'a during ghusl, particularly after janabah (major ritual impurity). The supplication transforms a physical act of worship into profound spiritual contemplation, reminding the believer that outward purity should accompany inward purification from sins and spiritual stains.