Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) used a Miswak, also known as a Siwak. This is a twig, typically from the araak tree, chewed and used to clean teeth. This practice was common in his time and is considered a Sunnah (prophetic tradition).
The Miswak: A Natural Toothbrush
The Miswak wasn't just a cleaning tool; it was an integral part of Prophet Muhammad's daily routine, reflecting his emphasis on cleanliness and hygiene. Several hadith (sayings and traditions of the Prophet) highlight his use of the Miswak and its encouragement among his followers.
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Source: Numerous sources, including those referenced, explicitly state that Prophet Muhammad used the Miswak for oral hygiene. For example, the statement "He (pbuh) used the 'Siwaak' or tooth stick to clean his teeth, a twig taken from the 'araak' tree found in and around Makkah. He (pbuh) loved to use it and highly encouraged us to do the same" is repeated across multiple sources.
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Frequency of Use: Reports indicate he used the Miswak frequently, even during fasting in Ramadan, highlighting the importance he placed on oral hygiene.
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Religious Significance: The Miswak's use transcends mere dental hygiene; it's considered a virtuous act, deeply rooted in Islamic teachings emphasizing personal cleanliness. This is reflected in statements like "Brushing teeth is from the sunnah of the prophets."
Modern Adaptations and Interpretations
While the Miswak was the traditional method, modern Muslims often use toothbrushes and toothpaste alongside, or as a replacement for, the Miswak. This reflects a pragmatic approach, adapting to modern conveniences while maintaining the spirit of the Sunnah concerning oral hygiene. The core principle remains: maintaining oral cleanliness is considered important in Islam.
