The Sunnah refers to the practices, sayings, and approvals of the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him). It serves as the second primary source of guidance for Muslims after the Quran, offering a perfect model for living a righteous life.
What is the Sunnah?
The Sunnah encompasses the actions, teachings, and approvals of the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH). It provides a comprehensive framework for personal conduct, social interactions, and religious observances in Islam.
Significance of the Sunnah
The Sunnah is a vital source of Islamic knowledge and practice, guiding Muslims in various aspects of life. It complements the Quran by offering practical applications of divine instructions, ensuring a balanced and ethical way of living.
Sources of the Sunnah
The Sunnah is primarily preserved in the collections of Hadith, which document the sayings and actions of the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH). Among the most authentic compilations are Sahih al-Bukhari and Sahih Muslim, which serve as trusted sources for understanding the Sunnah.
Following the Sunnah: A Model for Life
Muslims are encouraged to emulate the character and actions of the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH), integrating the Sunnah into their daily lives. By adhering to his teachings, believers can cultivate a balanced, ethical, and spiritually fulfilling existence.
Embracing the Sunnah not only strengthens faith but also promotes a harmonious and compassionate society, aligning life with the principles of Islam.
Sunnah meaning in English
Sunnah (سنة) in English means the way, teachings, and practices of Prophet Muhammad ﷺ. It includes his sayings, actions, and approvals, serving as a guide for Muslims in various aspects of life. The Sunnah complements the Qur’an and is a source of Islamic law and ethics.
It is often categorized into:
-
Sunnah Qawliyyah – His spoken words (Hadith).
-
Sunnah Filiyyah – His actions and behaviors.
-
Sunnah Taqririyyah – His silent approval of others’ actions.
5 Sunnah of Islam
1. Miswak (Using a Toothstick)
-
The Prophet ﷺ regularly used the miswak (a natural toothbrush) to clean his teeth.
-
It is a Sunnah to use it before prayer, upon waking up, and before sleeping.
-
It helps in oral hygiene and freshens breath.
2. Saying Bismillah Before Eating & Eating with Right Hand
-
The Prophet ﷺ always said “Bismillah” (In the name of Allah) before eating.
-
He used his right hand to eat and advised others to do the same.
-
Eating in moderation and not wasting food are also Sunnahs.
3. Sleeping on the Right Side
-
The Prophet ﷺ used to sleep on his right side with his right hand under his cheek.
-
He would recite Surah Al-Mulk and other supplications before sleeping.
-
This Sunnah promotes better digestion and peaceful sleep.
4. Smiling
-
The Prophet ﷺ said, “Smiling at your brother is a charity” (Tirmidhi).
-
He was always kind, cheerful, and had a pleasant demeanor.
-
Smiling spreads positivity strengthens relationships, and is a form of sadaqah (charity).
5. Greeting with Salam
-
The Prophet ﷺ encouraged Muslims to say “Assalamu Alaikum” (Peace be upon you) when meeting others.
-
It is a Sunnah to reply with “Wa Alaikum Assalam wa Rahmatullah wa Barakatuh”.
-
Spreading salam increases love, unity, and blessings in the community.
Sunnah of Prophet Muhammad
The Sunnah of Prophet Muhammad ﷺ includes his teachings, actions, and habits that serve as a guide for Muslims. Here are some of the most essential Sunnahs in daily life:
Morning & Night Sunnahs
-
Waking Up – Say Alhamdulillah (All praise be to Allah) upon waking.
-
Using Miswak – Brush teeth with a miswak for cleanliness.
-
Making Wudu Before Sleeping – Sleeping in a state of purity.
-
Sleeping on the Right Side – Placing the right hand under the cheek.
-
Reciting Surah Al-Mulk Before Sleeping – Brings protection from punishment.
Sunnahs of Eating & Drinking
-
Saying Bismillah Before Eating – Always start with “Bismillah”.
-
Eating with the Right Hand – And eating from the side closest to you.
-
Sitting While Eating – Avoid eating while standing.
-
Do not Blow on hot food – Let it cool naturally.
-
Drinking Water in Three Sips – And saying “Alhamdulillah” after drinking.
Sunnahs Related to Worship
-
Praying Sunnah Prayers – Performing extra (Nafl) prayers, like Tahajjud (night prayer).
-
Using Siwak Before Salah – Prophet ﷺ encouraged using the miswak before prayer.
-
Going Early to Jumu’ah Prayer – Arriving early to listen to the Khutbah (sermon).
-
Sitting in the Masjid After Fajr – Engaging in Dhikr & Dua.
-
Making Wudu Before Sleep – Brings purity & protection from Allah.
Sunnahs of Good Manners
-
Smiling Often – “Smiling at your brother is charity” (Tirmidhi).
-
Giving Salaam First – Say “Assalamu Alaikum” to others.
-
Speaking Gently & Truthfully – Avoid harsh words and lies.
-
Helping Others – Even small acts of kindness count as Sadaqah.
-
Being Grateful & Saying Alhamdulillah – Always thank Allah for His blessings.
Sunnahs of Daily Life
-
Wearing Right Shoe First – And removing the left shoe first.
-
Entering & Exiting the Home with Dua – Seek Allah’s protection.
-
Keeping the Beard – A Sunnah for men.
-
Using Fragrance (Perfume/Itr) – The Prophet ﷺ loved pleasant scents.
-
Maintaining Cleanliness – “Cleanliness is half of faith” (Muslim).
Sunnahs in Relationships
-
Being Kind to Spouses & Family – The best among you is the best to his family.
-
Playing with Children – Prophet ﷺ showed love & care for kids.
-
Helping at Home – He helped his wives with household work.
-
Forgiving Others – The Prophet ﷺ always chose mercy over revenge.
-
Visiting the Sick & Making Dua – “Whoever visits a sick person, an angel says: ‘Goodness for you.’”
Sunnahs of Walking & Traveling
-
Walking Humbly – With modesty & dignity.
-
Lowering the Gaze – To avoid sinful looks.
-
Traveling in a Group – He advised not to travel alone.
-
Saying Bismillah Before Entering a Vehicle – And making Dua for safety.
-
Praying Two Raka’ahs When Returning Home from a Journey – As gratitude to Allah.
