Etiquette of Relieving Oneself for Children
The Islamic Shariah emphasizes the importance of proper behavior in speech and actions. This is evident in the terminology used for the process of relieving oneself, referred to as “performing one’s needs.” The choice of this respectful term reflects a sensitivity to language, opting for expressions that are polite and appropriate, a characteristic found in the Holy Quran and the Sunnah of Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him).
The teachings of Islamic law provide several guidelines regarding the etiquette to be observed while relieving oneself, including:
- Avoid entering a restroom with anything that bears the name of Allah (SWT). If it is visible, it should be concealed in a pocket.
- Seek privacy when relieving oneself, ensuring one is hidden from the sight of others. Al-Mughirah reported: “I was with the Prophet (peace be upon him) on a journey when he said, ‘O Mughirah, take the container.’ I took it, and the Messenger of Allah (peace be upon him) went away until he concealed himself from me and relieved himself.”
- Choose a location to relieve oneself that does not disturb others, steering clear of public roads, shaded areas, and water sources. The Prophet (peace be upon him) instructed, “Beware of the two accursed deeds.” They asked, “What are the two accursed deeds, O Messenger of Allah?” He replied, “Those who relieve themselves on public paths or in shaded areas.”
- Do not face the Qiblah (direction of prayer) or turn one’s back to it while relieving oneself. The Prophet (peace be upon him) stated: “When you go to relieve yourselves, do not face the Qiblah or turn your back to it, but face east or west.”
- Avoid unnecessary speech while relieving oneself.
- It is preferable to urinate while sitting down, though standing is permissible if one can maintain their clothing from being soiled.
- Avoid urinating in the direction of the wind or on hard surfaces to prevent any splashback onto clothing.
Etiquette of Entering the Bathroom for Children
Muslims are encouraged to observe various etiquettes upon entering a restroom or lavatory, including:
- Reciting a supplication upon entering: “O Allah, I seek refuge with You from the malevolent and malevolent.”
- Reciting a supplication when exiting: “Forgiveness is Yours.”
- Entering with the left foot.
- Using the left foot to support oneself when sitting.
- Avoid entering barefoot.
- Exiting with the right foot.
- It is recommended to cover the head when entering the restroom and while relieving oneself.
- Refrain from looking where one’s private parts may be exposed.
- Avoid wasting water; use only what is necessary.
- Maintain cleanliness of the area, body, and clothing.
Etiquette of Cleaning After Relieving Oneself
The exit points for waste from urine and feces are known as the two passages. Many health issues stem from neglecting their cleanliness. Thus, Islam teaches us the proper etiquette for cleaning after relieving oneself, which includes:
- Cleaning with water to ensure the area is free from waste. If water is unavailable, using stones (istijmar) is permitted to clean the exit paths.
- Utilizing clean and pure materials for cleansing, ensuring that the number of times one cleans follows an odd number, as stated by the Prophet (peace be upon him): “Whoever uses stones for cleansing, let him do so in odd numbers.”
- Using water after stones for those who have already used stones.
- Maintaining hand hygiene to prevent the spread of germs, either by washing with water or rubbing with dirt.
- Using the left hand for cleaning and avoiding the right hand; Salman Al-Farsi (may Allah be pleased with him) reported: “We were prohibited from facing the Qiblah for defecation or urination, from using the right hand for cleaning, from using fewer than three stones, or from using animal dung or bones.”
- Utilizing tissue paper to ensure cleanliness by wiping the area three times or more.
- Performing istibra, which involves sprinkling water on the area of discharge and the undergarments to confirm cleanliness and to alleviate doubt.
- Strive to avoid seeing one’s private parts during cleansing.
- Ensure the toilet is clean before use and leave it tidy afterwards.
In summary, Islam places great emphasis on cleanliness and purity, outlining clear etiquettes that assist Muslims in maintaining these values. The guidelines on relieving oneself, entering restrooms, and the proper cleaning methods afterward are well articulated through the actions and teachings of Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him).