Islamic toilet etiquette

The Islamic faith has particular rules regarding personal hygiene when going to the toilet. This code is known as Qadaa' al-Haajah. Eating any food while on the toilet is strictly forbidden.^[1][2]

Issues of chirality, such as whether one uses the left or right hand and foot to step into or out of toilet areas, are derived from hadith sources.^[3] The only issue which the Qur'an mentions is the one of washing one's hands especially following going to the toilet which is mentioned in verse 5:6.

Rules

A Muslim must first find an acceptable place away from standing water, or people's pathways or shade.^[4] They are advised that it is better to enter the area with the left foot,^[5] facing away from the Qiblah.^[1]

While on the toilet, one must remain silent. Talking, answering greetings or greeting others is strongly discouraged.^[1] The private parts must be washed with water after defecating (a process called anal cleansing with water) and after urinating. When defecating together, two men cannot converse, nor look at each other's genitals.^[6] A man should not touch his genitals with the right hand.^{[7][8][9][10][11][12][13]}

When leaving the toilet, one is advised to leave with the right foot,^[5] and also say a prayer – "Praise be to Allah who relieved me of the filth and gave me relief."^[1] This is similar in concept to Asher yatzar, the prayers said by orthodox Jews when leaving the toilet in which they thank God for the orifices used to defecate/urinate,^[14] and exact ways of proceeding and accompanying prayers are also specified in traditional Zoroastrianism.^[15] It is also reported in the Hadith of Bukhari that whenever Muhammad went to the toilet, he said "In the name of Allah, O Allah! I seek refuge with You from all offensive and wicked things" (alternate translation: "from evil deeds and evil spirits").^[16]

See also

• Bidet shower
• Istinja
• Squat toilet

Notes

External links

• Islamic toilet etiquette in the hadith and fiqh (Islamic jurisprudence)