Shoes - Significance and Practices in Islam
Etymology and Translation
- Arabic: حذاء (
ḥidhāʾ) - Turkish: ayakkabı (
ayakkabı)
Introduction
The removal of sandals, shoes, or boots upon entering a mosque, house, or during worship is not strictly mandated in Islamic law (Sharia). However, this practice has become a widespread custom across many Muslim-majority countries. It symbolizes cleanliness and respect in sacred spaces.
Historical and Cultural Background
Muslims commonly remove their shoes before entering mosques, such as the Kaʿbah in Makkah, following traditions seen throughout Islamic history and regions. This practice is observed extensively in places like Palestine, Egypt, and the Indian subcontinent. This customary practice aligns with cultural norms and ensures the sanctity of prayer spaces.
Prophetic Traditions and Practices
Several Hadiths recount the Prophet Muhammad’s practices:
- Shaddad ibn Aus narrated that the Prophet advised Muslims to act contrary to the Jews by praying in shoes.
- Abu Sa`id al-Khudri detailed an instance where Muhammad took off his shoes upon realizing they were impure, instructing others to do the same if necessary.
- Amr ibn Shu’aib described Muhammad praying both with and without shoes, indicating flexibility in practice.
These traditions emphasize the importance of cleanliness and provide practical guidance for Muslims in maintaining purity during prayers.
Jurisprudential Perspectives
Islamic jurisprudence (Fiqh) provides further clarity:
- According to the Hidāyah, shoes with impurities like dung or blood must be cleaned by rubbing with earth to become fit for worship.
- The Durru ’l-Mukhtār supports this view and outlines that if dirt cannot be fully removed, wiping the shoes with moistened fingers is acceptable (Masah).
Cultural Practices and Variations
Though not universally mandated, removing shoes has become ingrained in various Islamic cultures as a sign of reverence. The act of placing shoes to the side and prioritizing the right shoe first when removing is detailed in traditions, reflecting a meticulous adherence to ritual purity.
Recommended Books for Further Study
- “The Life of the Prophet Muhammad” by Ibn Kathir
- “Al-Adab al-Mufrad” by Imam Bukhari
- “Reliance of the Traveller: A Classic Manual of Islamic Sacred Law” by Ahmad ibn Naqib al-Misri
Takeaways and Conclusion
The act of removing shoes signifies respect, cleanliness, and adherence to cultural norms, enhancing the spiritual environment during prayers. While not obligatory, this practice is full of symbolic importance and rooted in the traditions of the Prophet Muhammad.
Adhering to such customs fosters a deeper connection to the faith and maintains the sanctity of Islamic prayer spaces.
By preserving these practices, Muslims continue to honor the traditions of their Prophet while fostering a clean and sacred environment for worship.
