Pathway to Paradise — Page 70
70 If no water is available, clean dust may be substituted. The hands are passed over the dust, and then passed over face and arms. This is called “ tayyumum. ” II. Bathing Bathing is the complete washing of the entire body. As Islam encourages one to be in a constant state of cleanliness, it goes without saying that bathing should be part of a Muslim’s daily hygiene. Allah states in the Holy Qur’an: “Allah loves those who keep themselves clean. ” (2:223) There are certain activities after which Muslims are instructed to take a ritual bath in order to purify themselves for salaat. These are: after sexual intercourse, at the end of the menstrual period and after stoppage of bleeding after childbirth. At thes e times, the bath should include the steps of wudhu, followed by washing the entire body including the hair. It is also a sunnah of the Holy Prophet (peace and blessings of Allah be on him) to take a bath in preparation for religious occasions, such as Friday ( Juma ) prayers and holiday ( Eid ) prayers. Other Hygienic practices Another hygienic practice promoted by Islam is the washing of the private parts of the body after using the toilet. Water is used to clean these areas, and only the left hand should be used for this purpose. The use of water aids in the removal of bacteria from the body and thus helps to prevent infection. Hands, of course,