Muhammad (saw) – The Perfect Man — Page 15
Muhammad sa The Perfect Man 15 Purity and Cleanliness God says that He loves those who repent and those who cleanse themselves. [2:23] The Holy Prophet Muhammad sa has also taught us that outer cleanliness is essential for inner purity. He gave us instructions regarding cleanliness in minute detail. He instructed us to perform ablution before the five daily prayers and to bathe at least twice a week for bodily cleanliness. He bathed often and could even bathe with three litres of water. 32 He would use antimony for preserving the eyesight. 33 The Holy Prophet Muhammad sa put great emphasis on the cleaning of teeth. He said, "If I did not fear that I would be putting my followers in hardship, I would instruct them to brush their teeth five times a day. " His own example in this regard was that it was the first thing he used to do after coming home. He would brush his teeth sideways and from bottom to top so that all the gaps were properly cleaned. 34 Once when he was close to his demise, he wished to clean his teeth and Hadrat ‘ A ’ishah ra gave him a piece of Misw a k which she had softened for him. 35 The Holy Prophet Muhammad sa liked good perfume and was distinguished by his own particular scent. Hadrat Anas ra says that the Holy Prophet Muhammad sa 's perspiration smelt better than musk. 36 When his hair grew long, covering his ears and reaching his shoulders,