The Book of Purification - Sunan an-Nasa'i

Hadith Reference: Sunan an-Nasa'i 10

Hadith Text

"The Messenger of Allah (ﷺ) said: 'The Fitrah are five: Trimming the mustache, plucking the armpit hairs, clipping the nails, removing the pubes, and circumcision.'"

Meaning of Fitrah

The term "Fitrah" refers to the natural disposition and innate character with which Allah created humankind. These five acts preserve the original state of purity and align with human nature as intended by the Creator.

Scholarly Commentary

1. Trimming the Mustache: Scholars differ on whether this means shortening or complete removal, but the predominant view is regular trimming to prevent interference with eating and drinking while maintaining dignity.

2. Plucking Armpit Hairs: This purification removes sources of unpleasant odor and maintains bodily cleanliness. Most scholars recommend removal every forty days.

3. Clipping Nails: This prevents accumulation of impurities and maintains hygiene. The recommended frequency is before they grow excessively long.

4. Removing Pubic Hair: Essential for personal hygiene and purification for prayer. Scholars specify this should be done at least every forty days.

5. Circumcision: Considered an emphasized sunnah for males, facilitating cleanliness and representing the covenant with Allah. It distinguishes Muslims and completes the natural disposition.

Legal Rulings

The majority of scholars consider these acts collectively recommended (mustahabb) rather than obligatory, except circumcision which has stronger evidence for being obligatory for males. Performing these acts demonstrates completeness in faith and adherence to prophetic guidance.

Wisdom and Benefits

These practices promote physical cleanliness, spiritual purity, and communal harmony by eliminating sources of offensive odors and maintaining presentable appearance. They represent the comprehensive nature of Islamic teachings that address both spiritual and physical aspects of human life.