Understanding The Prophet's Life
From Issue: 677 [Read full issue]
Purification
Purification is half of the faith. [Muslim]
There is a great deal of difference of opinion as to what the Prophet, peace be upon him, exactly meant by this statement. Below are some of the explanations that have been offered by the scholars:
"Purification is similar to half of the prayer."
"Purification is half of the faith because it encompasses the outward form of submission."
"Purification from associating partners with Allah and sinful living is half of faith."
"Purification in the sense of avoiding sins is half of the faith."
"Performing ablution is an act of faith."
"Ablution is half of the faith because it removes the external impurities."
"Purification of the heart from its spiritual diseases is one half of faith."
Many of the above meanings are consistent with each other and it is possible that more than one of them is meant. Purification may mean the general sense of purification or it may mean the specific act of ablution.
Compiled From:
"Commentary on the Forty Hadith of al-Nawawi" - Jamaal al-Din M. Zarabozo, pp. 868, 869