Cleanliness to godliness

John Wesley, the English cleric and theologian, associated cleanliness with godliness when he articulated, 'Cleanliness is next to Godliness'. More than ever in today's world, we need to realise the importance of a clean environment and the practice of good hygiene. While it is customary to keep our places of worship clean, the environment, too, requires our attention. When we talk of sustainability, maintenance of our forests and water bodies, it is implied that we must practise cleanliness with religious fervour.

Cleanliness reflects self-respect and responsibility towards others, a moral and spiritual purity. 'We can no more gain God's blessings with an unclean body than with an unclean mind,' said M K Gandhi. Cleanliness helps communal living and is a moral duty.

Patanjali, philosopher and author of the Yog Sutras, pronounces 'saucha', or cleanliness, in all aspects of life as one of the five niyamas of yogic philosophy. A clean body and mind free one of negative thoughts and attachments, fostering inner peace.


The Bhagwad Gita says virtuous people believe external cleanliness is conducive to internal purity. The Bible emphasises adherence to the Ten Commandments as akin to cleanliness. The Quran underscores the importance of cleanliness in spiritual practices. Cleanliness is a commitment to coming generations: to care for the environment, respect the planet and grow into thoughtful citizens, healthy and compassionate.