Sunan an-Nasa'i 112

Overview & Central Theme

This hadith, recorded in Sunan an-Nasa'i under the Book of Purification, encapsulates a foundational principle of Islamic etiquette (adab) and prophetic practice (Sunnah): the commendable act of beginning with the right side in all matters of honor and cleanliness. The Prophet ﷺ consistently preferred the right when purifying himself (such as washing the limbs during wudu), when donning shoes, and when combing his hair. This preference is not merely a cultural habit but a divinely guided norm that reflects the believer's alignment with the natural disposition (fitrah) and the order favored by Allah. The narrator's transmission, as highlighted by Shu'bah's recollection from Al-Ash'ath, emphasizes the universality and consistency of this prophetic practice across different regions and contexts, underscoring its importance as a living Sunnah for every Muslim.

Context & Linguistic Insights

The hadith is reported by 'Aishah (may Allah be pleased with her), who observed the Prophet's ﷺ habits intimately. The Arabic phrase "kāna yuḥibbu" (he used to love) indicates a continuous, habitual practice, not an occasional act. The key term "yamīn" (right) carries both physical and spiritual connotations—it denotes the right hand or side, which in Islamic tradition is associated with blessing (barakah), honor, and divine favor (as in the Quranic "companions of the right"). The phrase "idhā mā qadara" (whenever he could) shows that the preference is conditional upon ability; if one is unable due to a valid reason (e.g., injury), the left is permissible. Linguistically, "tana''ul" (purification) here refers to cleaning oneself from impurities (istinja) and ablution, while "int'āl" (wearing shoes) and "tarjīl" (combing hair) are cited as examples of daily actions. The narrators' chain—from Shu'bah to Al-Ash'ath—demonstrates the meticulous care in preserving this Sunnah, with Al-Ash'ath affirming the practice in both Wasit and Kufah, showing its widespread acceptance among the early Muslims.

Key Scholarly Insights & Legal Benefits

• Jurisprudential Ruling: The majority of scholars (Jumhoor) hold that beginning with the right in wudu (washing the right hand, right foot, etc.) is a Sunnah (recommended), not obligatory. This is based on the Prophet's ﷺ practice and his statement, "When you perform wudu, begin with your right limbs" (Sunan Abi Dawud). However, some scholars like Imam Ahmad in one narration consider it obligatory, though the preponderant view is that it is a stressed Sunnah.
• Ethical Principle: The hadith teaches the believer to cultivate a conscious preference for the right in all honorable actions—such as giving and receiving, entering the mosque, and eating—as a reflection of inner reverence and love for Allah's order. This instills mindfulness (taqwa) in daily routines, transforming mundane acts into acts of worship.
• Consensus on Exceptions: Scholars unanimously agree that the left is preferred for actions considered unclean or demeaning, such as using the restroom, removing shoes, or cleaning oneself after answering the call of nature. This balance preserves both dignity and practicality, as noted by Imam An-Nawawi in his commentary on Sahih Muslim.

"The wisdom in beginning with the right is that it is a form of honoring the right side, which is the side of the angels and the side from which the believer will be given their book on the Day of Judgment. The left is for what is less honorable, as the Prophet ﷺ used to begin with the right in his purification, combing, and wearing shoes, and he would begin with the left in what was opposite to that." — Imam An-Nawawi, Sharh Sahih Muslim

Daily Life & Spiritual Application

For the contemporary Muslim, this hadith serves as a gentle reminder to infuse every action with intentionality and prophetic love. Start your wudu by washing the right hand and foot first, and when putting on your shoes, begin with the right foot. When combing your hair, begin from the right side. These small, consistent acts cultivate a habit of obedience and mindfulness, aligning your daily rhythm with the Sunnah. Beyond the physical, extend this principle to your speech and interactions—begin with the right in giving charity, greeting with salam, and entering your home. Let this practice be a means of increasing your love for the Prophet ﷺ, as 'Aishah said, "His character was the Quran" (Sahih Muslim). By emulating his ﷺ preferences, you draw closer to Allah and embody the excellence (Ihsan) of worshiping as if you see Him. Moreover, teach this Sunnah to your children and family, making it a shared family practice that passes down the prophetic legacy with joy and reverence.