HEALTH AND REWARD IN ONE STICK!

 

FAJR REMINDER: HEALTH AND REWARD IN ONE STICK!

Rabī‘ Al-Akhir 13, 1448 AH (25 September 2026)

What if a simple stick could earn you reward, cleanse your mouth, strengthen your commitment to the Sunnah, and be an act that pleases your Lord?

This is the Siwāk—a simple Sunnah that many people overlook despite its tremendous virtue.

Among the Sunnahs of Wuḍū’ is using the Siwāk. The Prophet (ﷺ) used it regularly, especially before Ṣalāh and on other occasions, and he repeatedly encouraged its use because of its cleanliness and virtue.

Abū Hurayrah (Raḍiyallāhu ‘Anhu) reported that the Messenger of Allāh (ﷺ) said:

“Were it not that it would be difficult for my nation, I would have ordered them to use the Siwāk before every prayer.”

In another narration, the Prophet (ﷺ) said:

“Were it not that it would be difficult for my nation, I would have ordered them to use the Siwāk with every Wuḍū’.”

[Ṣaḥīḥ al-Bukhārī 887; Ṣaḥīḥ Muslim 252]

The Siwāk is a natural tooth-cleaning stick traditionally obtained from the Arāk tree (Salvadora persica). It has been used for centuries for oral hygiene and has been studied for various potential oral-health benefits.

1️⃣ THIS SUNNAH BRINGS REWARD

‘Ā’ishah (Raḍiyallāhu ‘Anha) reported that the Prophet (ﷺ) said:

“The Siwāk is purification for the mouth and pleasing to the Lord.”

[Sunan an-Nasā’ī 5]

Thus, using the Siwāk is not merely about keeping the mouth clean; it is also an opportunity to follow the Sunnah and seek the Pleasure of Allāh.

2️⃣ IT SUPPORTS ORAL HEALTH

Research on Salvadora persica has found antibacterial activity and other properties that may support oral hygiene. Regular and proper use can help remove plaque and may contribute to healthier teeth and gums.

Gingivitis refers to inflammation of the gums, often associated with plaque buildup—a sticky film containing bacteria that forms around the teeth.

3️⃣ IT HELPS CLEAN THE TEETH

Siwāk contains naturally occurring abrasive compounds, including silica, which can help remove some surface deposits and stains when used properly.

4️⃣ IT HELPS FRESHEN THE BREATH

Its cleansing action can help remove food particles and reduce some of the bacteria associated with unpleasant mouth odour.

‘Alī (Raḍiyallāhu ‘Anhu) reported that the Prophet (ﷺ) said:

“Verily, when the servant uses the Siwāk and then stands to pray, an angel stands behind him and listens to his recitation…”

[Musnad al-Bazzār 568]

The scholars have mentioned several occasions when using the Siwāk is especially encouraged, including before Wuḍū’ and Ṣalāh, before reciting the Qur’ān, after eating foods that leave an odour or residue in the mouth, before sleeping, and after waking.

And when Jumu‘ah comes, endeavour to use the Siwāk, as it is among the Sunnahs associated with Friday.

Abū Sa‘īd al-Khudrī (Raḍiyallāhu ‘Anhu) reported:

“I testify that Allāh's Messenger (ﷺ) said: ‘The taking of a bath on Friday is compulsory for every male Muslim who has attained the age of puberty, and the cleaning of his teeth with Siwāk, and the using of perfume if it is available.’”

[Ṣaḥīḥ al-Bukhārī 880]

The Siwāk is a small stick, but it carries a great Sunnah. It gives us an easy opportunity to care for our mouths while reviving the practice of the Messenger of Allāh (ﷺ).

Use it with sincerity, consistency, and love for the Sunnah—and seek the reward of Allāh through it.

I beseech Allāh (ﷻ) to have mercy upon us, accept our acts of worship, and help us to revive the Sunnahs of His Messenger (ﷺ).

Aameen.