What does Islam say about health?
✅ Health is a blessing and trust from Allah
Prophet Muhammad ﷺ said
> “There are two blessings which many people lose: (They are) health and free time for doing good.”
— Sahih Bukhari
This emphasizes gratitude for good health and encourages its preservation.
✅ Prevention and hygiene
Islam strongly promotes cleanliness and preventive health. For example:
Performing ablution (wudu) multiple times a day before prayers.
Keeping the body, clothes, and surroundings clean.
Covering the mouth when sneezing or coughing.
Avoiding contagious diseases and quarantine practices are also mentioned in prophetic traditions.
✅ Balanced diet and moderation
The Qur’an says:
> “Eat and drink, but do not be excessive. Indeed, He likes not those who commit excess.”
— Qur’an, 7:31
Islam teaches moderation in eating and drinking to protect health and prevent diseases.
✅ Mental and spiritual well-being
Islam addresses mental health through:
Encouraging hope, patience, and resilience.
Prayer, remembrance of God (dhikr), and seeking peace through faith.
✅ Seeking treatment
Islam encourages seeking medical treatment. The Prophet ﷺ said:
> “Make use of medical treatment, for Allah has not made a disease without appointing a remedy for it…”
— Sahih Bukhari
✅ Avoiding harm
Harmful things like intoxicants, harmful drugs, and certain unhealthy practices are prohibited to safeguard physical and mental health.
✅ Physical activity
Prophet Muhammad ﷺ recommended physical strength and activities like walking, swimming, horse riding, and archery, recognizing their health benefits.
So, in Islam, maintaining good health is a form of worship because it enables a person to fulfill their religious duties, help others, and live a productive life.
