Allah's Messenger said: "If it were not that it would be difficult on my nation, then I would have ordered them to use the Siwak for each prayer."
Hadith Commentary: The Virtue of Siwak
This noble hadith from the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) is recorded in Jami' at-Tirmidhi, specifically in "The Book on Purification" as hadith number 22. The siwak (tooth-stick) is a blessed instrument of purification that cleanses the mouth and earns the pleasure of Allah.
Scholarly Explanation
The scholars explain that the Prophet's statement demonstrates his immense mercy and consideration for his ummah. He refrained from making siwak obligatory despite its great benefits, knowing it might cause hardship for some people.
Imam an-Nawawi states that using siwak is a confirmed sunnah (sunnah mu'akkadah), particularly when preparing for prayer, upon waking, and when the mouth's odor changes. Its merits include purifying the mouth, pleasing the Lord, and perfecting one's ablution.
Practical Application
Though not obligatory, the strong recommendation indicates its high status in Islamic hygiene. The preferred times for siwak include: before each of the five daily prayers, before reciting Quran, upon entering one's home, and after waking from sleep.
The scholars mention that the siwak serves both spiritual and physical purposes - it cleanses the mouth for prayer and remembrance of Allah while maintaining oral health, demonstrating Islam's comprehensive approach to purification.