Author: Dr. Noor Mohammad Mohibi
The Quran: A Miracle Beyond Time- A Study of Its Miraculous Nature (part 106)
Manifestations of the Miraculous Nature of the Noble Quran in Linking Worship with Human Health (Continued)
Ablution (Wudu) and the Prevention of Trachoma
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Introduction to Trachoma
Trachoma is one of the infectious diseases of the eye that affects the conjunctiva [1] and the cornea. The disease begins with symptoms such as mild itching and burning, and if left untreated, it can lead to complete blindness. Trachoma is considered one of the main causes of blindness in developing countries.
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Testimony of International Research
What is remarkable is that a specialized writer and researcher, who had no religious affiliation, stated in a scientific article published in a journal affiliated with the United Nations that:
“Regular washing of the face and ablution (wudu) in Islamic societies has played a decisive role in the significant reduction of trachoma.”
This research indicates that approximately five hundred million people worldwide become infected with this disease; many of them could be saved from blindness if they adhered to the Islamic method of hygiene and ablution.
In communities where ablution is performed regularly five times a day, the rate of trachoma infection has decreased in an unprecedented manner, and in some regions, it has reportedly reached zero.
These findings are presented as clear evidence that Islamic law, even before the emergence of modern public health science, institutionalized the fundamental principles of disease prevention within acts of worship.
Ablution and Its Broad Health Benefits
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Ablution and Cleansing of the Upper Respiratory System
In a study conducted by a number of professors from a faculty of medicine in one of the Islamic countries, it was established that regular ablution:
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Cleans the nasal passages from dust, pollutants, and microbes;
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Prevents the accumulation of dozens of types of germs in the nasal cavity;
Whereas among individuals who do not perform ablution, up to eleven types of microbes have sometimes been identified in the nose.
Ablution and the Health of the Skin and Feet
Frequent ablution, especially washing the feet:
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Prevents the growth of fungi between the toes;
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Protects against inflammations, skin infections, and the accumulation of impurities;
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Reduces the likelihood of skin cancer, since harmful chemical substances are washed off the surface of the skin before they accumulate;
For this reason, skin cancer statistics in many Islamic countries have been reported as relatively lower.
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Ablution, Blood Circulation, and Brain Activity
Massaging (rubbing) the limbs during ablution:
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Stimulates blood circulation;
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Increases blood flow to the brain and kidneys;
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Reduces sluggishness of the central nervous system;
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Contributes to strengthening memory and mental alertness.
Islam has made purity of the body, clothing, and place a condition for the validity of prayer, thereby transforming cleanliness into a daily and communal culture.
The Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) said: “Purity is half of faith.” [2]
This hadith demonstrates the foundational place of purity within the structure of Islamic faith.
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Ablution and Global Health
According to statistics of the World Health Organization, approximately three hundred million people worldwide suffer from diseases whose origin lies in pollution and lack of hygiene and health. Muslims, whether consciously or unconsciously, due to their adherence to ablution, remain protected from many of these illnesses.
Obedience to Allah: The Path to Health, Happiness, and Success
Human beings are naturally inclined toward survival, health, perfection, and tranquility. The realization of these aspirations depends upon obedience to the system designed for them by their Creator. Islamic law not only shows the path to eternal salvation but also the path to worldly health.
Allah (SWT) says: “وَمَن یطِعِ ٱللَّهَ وَرَسُولَهُۥ فَقَد فَازَ فَوزًا عَظِیمًا”؛ [3] Translation: “And whoever obeys Allah and His Messenger has indeed attained a great triumph.”
As a summary of what has been examined in this section, these examples represent only a portion of the miraculous aspects of the Noble Quran in linking worship with human health. Prayer, ablution, and the devotional order of Islam have established a system harmonious with both the human body and soul, a system whose depth modern science, despite its advancements, is still at the beginning of understanding. [4]
To be continued…
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References:
- Conjunctiva: A thin, transparent membrane that covers the inner surface of the eyelids and lies over the white part of the eye.
Function: Protects the eye and keeps its surface moist.
Cornea: The transparent, dome-shaped front part of the eye, located in front of the iris and pupil, through which light enters the eye.
Function: Assists in focusing (refraction) light and plays the principal role in clear vision.
- Sahih Muslim, Book of the Virtue of Ablution, hadith no. 223 (Vol. 1, p. 140).
- Surat al-Ahzab:71
- Encyclopedia of Scientific Miracles in the Quran and Sunnah, Vol. 1, pp. 70–74.
