taharat

Taharat, from the Arabic root meaning purification or cleanliness, is a central concept in Islam that denotes both ritual and moral cleanliness. It encompasses the physical cleanliness of the body, clothing, and environment, as well as a state of spiritual purity that informs proper conduct and worship.

In Islamic jurisprudence, taharat distinguishes between purity and impurity. Impurities, known as najasa, create conditions (hadath) that must be resolved before certain acts of worship. There are major impurities (janabah) and minor impurities (hadath asghar). Purification is required before performing acts such as the five daily prayers, recitation of the Quran, and handling the sacred text, with the specifics varying by school of thought.

Purification practices include wudu (ablution) for regular prayer, ghusl (a full ritual bath) for major impurity or after sexual activity, and tayammum (dry purification) when water is unavailable or unusable. Wudu typically involves washing the hands, mouth, nostrils, face, arms, wiping the head, ears, and washing the feet in a prescribed sequence.

Purity also extends to objects and places associated with worship. Clothing, utensils, and prayer spaces must be free from najasa, and water used for purification should be pure and capable of cleansing. If contact with impurities occurs, washing or replacing the affected item is often required.

Etymologically, taharat denotes purification, but in everyday use it also conveys moral integrity and conscientious behavior. While most often discussed in Sunni and Shia contexts, the concept appears across diverse Islamic traditions and influences personal hygiene, ritual practice, and spiritual discipline.