10 Islamic Manners on the Dining Table (8)

The manners and advantages of cleaning one’s teeth (Khilal)

A tradition from Imam Ja’far-e-Sadiq (a.s.) states that Hazrat Jibrael (a.s.) brought for the Holy Prophet (s.a.w.a.) Miswak Khilal (toothpick) and horn for vivisection and said that Khilal strengthens the roots of teeth, makes them healthy and increases daily income.

A tradition from Imam Ja’far-e-Sadiq (a.s.) states that the Holy Prophet (s.a.w.a.) has prohibited the use of pomegranate or any fruit-tree’s branch as Khilal as it causes dandruff.

According to Hazrat Ali (a.s.), doing Khilal with the wood of Jhao causes poverty.

Another tradition states that the Holy Prophet (s.a.w.a.) has ordained that the host should provide his guest with Khilal for angels look with anger at the food particles trapped in any one’s teeth.

A tradition from Imam Ja’far-e-Sadiq (a.s.) states that the food particles which cling to the roots of the teeth should be eaten and those which are trapped between the teeth should be taken out and thrown away.

According to Imam Ja’far-e-Sadiq (a.s.), whatever is removed with Khilal should not be eaten as it causes internal wounds.