"Do you think that is there was a river by the door of any one of you, and he bathed in it five times each day, would there be any trace of dirt left on him?" They said: "No trace of dirt would be left on him." He said: "That is the likeness of the five daily prayers. By means of them Allah erases sins."
The Book of Salah - Sunan an-Nasa'i 462
"Do you think that if there was a river by the door of any one of you, and he bathed in it five times each day, would there be any trace of dirt left on him?" They said: "No trace of dirt would be left on him." He said: "That is the likeness of the five daily prayers. By means of them Allah erases sins."
Commentary on the Hadith
This noble hadith from the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) employs a powerful analogy to illustrate the spiritual purification achieved through the five daily prayers. Just as physical bathing in pure water cleanses the body from physical impurities, the performance of salah purifies the soul from spiritual stains.
The wisdom behind specifying five times corresponds to the constant renewal of spiritual cleanliness, preventing the accumulation of sins throughout the day and night. Each prayer serves as a fresh ablution for the heart, washing away minor transgressions committed between prayers.
This purification encompasses both minor sins and serves as an expiation for them, provided one avoids major sins. The continuous nature of this cleansing reflects Allah's infinite mercy and makes the prayer a means of constant connection with the Divine.
Juridical Rulings
The five daily prayers are individually obligatory (fard 'ayn) upon every sane, adult Muslim. Their times are specifically designated: Fajr (dawn), Dhuhr (noon), 'Asr (afternoon), Maghrib (sunset), and 'Isha' (night).
Abandoning the prayer constitutes a major sin, and according to many scholars, one who denies its obligation falls into disbelief. The prayer must be performed with proper purification (wudu or ghusl), facing the qiblah, and observing all its pillars and conditions.
Spiritual Dimensions
Beyond external purification, the prayer cultivates God-consciousness (taqwa), discipline, and spiritual elevation. It serves as a daily reminder of our purpose in creation and strengthens our connection with Allah.
The prayer is a means of seeking forgiveness, attaining tranquility, and receiving divine light. When performed with presence of heart and proper submission, it transforms the believer's character and conduct.