Should We Bath With Soap on Thursday?

Based *strictly* on the provided reference regarding Hindu tradition and respect for Brihaspati Deva, the answer is not explicitly stated for **bathing with soap**.

According to the tradition referenced:

> "It is out of respect and devotion to Brihaspati Deva (the ruling deity of Thursday, as per hindu religion) that people do not wash clothes, hair, cut nails etc. on Thursdays. This relates to Lord Vishnu also."

## Understanding the Tradition

This reference highlights specific activities traditionally avoided on Thursdays:

*   **Washing clothes:** Laundry is avoided.
*   **Washing hair:** Cleaning one's hair is avoided.
*   **Cutting nails:** Trimming fingernails and toenails is avoided.

These practices are observed as a sign of respect and devotion to **Brihaspati Deva** (the planet Jupiter, considered a divine preceptor) and **Lord Vishnu**, deities associated with Thursday.

### Relation to Bathing

The reference *explicitly* prohibits washing **hair**. Bathing is a broader activity that typically involves cleaning the body and often includes washing the hair.

*   **What the reference says:** Avoid washing *hair*.
*   **What the reference doesn't explicitly say:** Avoid *bathing* or *bathing with soap*.

However, since bathing often involves washing hair, the tradition of avoiding hair washing on Thursday is the most relevant point from the reference concerning personal cleaning practices.

While the reference doesn't directly prohibit bathing with soap, the avoidance of washing hair suggests a general sentiment towards limiting certain comprehensive cleaning activities on this auspicious day. Some interpretations might extend this to avoiding a full bath involving vigorous washing with soap, especially if it includes washing hair. Others might simply avoid washing their hair but still take a regular bath.

**In Summary:**

The provided reference prohibits washing hair on Thursday. It does not explicitly mention bathing with soap. Therefore, based *solely* on this reference, one cannot definitively say whether bathing *with soap* is prohibited. The tradition focuses specifically on avoiding activities like washing hair, which is often part of bathing.