"The Messenger of Allah (ﷺ) said: 'Whoever eats of this plant' - the first time he said 'garlic' then he said, 'garlic, onions and leeks' [1] - 'let him not approach us in our Masjids, for the angels are offended by that which offends mankinds.'"[1] In Fath, Al-Bari, Ibn Hajar is of the opinion that it was Ibn Juraij who was talking, explaining that 'Ata' - who reported it from Jabir - narrated it both ways.
Hadith Commentary: The Prohibition of Offensive Odors in Masjids
This noble hadith from Sunan an-Nasa'i 707 establishes a crucial Islamic etiquette regarding mosque attendance. The Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) explicitly forbade those who consumed garlic, onions, or leeks from approaching the mosques where Muslims gather for prayer and remembrance of Allah.
The Wisdom Behind the Prohibition
The primary wisdom lies in maintaining the sanctity and purity of the mosque environment. The angels, who are present in places of worship, are offended by strong, unpleasant odors just as human beings are. Since mosques are houses of Allah where angels descend, we must ensure they remain pure and pleasant for all worshippers.
This ruling demonstrates Islam's concern for communal harmony and consideration for others' comfort during acts of worship. Offensive odors can distract fellow worshippers from their devotion and create discomfort during congregational prayers where people stand in close proximity.
Scholarly Interpretation and Application
Classical scholars like Ibn Hajar al-Asqalani in Fath al-Bari have discussed the chain of narration, noting that Ibn Juraij explained that 'Ata' reported this from Jabir in different wordings. This doesn't affect the ruling's validity but shows the careful preservation of prophetic traditions.
The prohibition applies to raw consumption of these vegetables when the odor remains strong. If the smell dissipates or if they're thoroughly cooked (reducing the odor), the prohibition is lifted. Modern scholars extend this ruling to include any substance causing offensive odors, such as smoking or strong perfumes that may cause discomfort to others.
Contemporary Relevance
This teaching remains profoundly relevant today. Muslims should be mindful of personal hygiene and avoid anything that might disturb fellow worshippers. This includes using mouth fresheners if one has consumed such foods, ensuring clean clothing, and maintaining general cleanliness before attending the mosque.
The ruling exemplifies Islam's comprehensive approach to worship, encompassing both spiritual purity and physical consideration for one's fellow believers in the sacred spaces designated for Allah's remembrance.