There is a great debate among Islamic scholars as to the seriousness of tracts of the Koran related to bad breath and other forms of personal hygiene.  That debate becomes more important during the holy season of Ramadan, when devout Muslims fast during the daylight hours, a condition that exacerbates bad breath.

A strict, literal interpretation of the Koran reveals a number of references to personal hygiene, and specifically, to bad breath.  Many of the references relate to being prepared for worship.  Washing of the face and hands is a vital part preparation for prayer, and there are a number of passages referring to people who’d been turned away from mosques for their bad breath.  Most of the references to bad breath are incorporated with other examples of bad hygiene. 

Other Islamic scholars argue that a number of passages are subject to interpretation.  For example, many Muslims have come to believe they shouldn’t consume garlic and onion before prayer.  This comes from a reference to a man being turned away from a mosque for his bad breath; it was offensive to the others in the mosque who were praying.  Disturbing prayer and offending others are far greater offenses than having bad breath since Muslims are strongly encouraged to avoid causing offence to others. 

For every reference to bad breath, the Koran is replete with suggestions for oral hygiene.  There are number of references to cleaning one’s teeth with a sawik, a piece of small wood whose tip is cut vertically fine slices.  They bear a strong resemblance to the toothbrush of today. 

Biological factors do not play favorably into the hands of Muslim faithful.  One of the many benefits of fasting is the increased process of ketoses, which help to cleanse the body of toxins.  One of the unfortunate side effects of the enhanced process however, is halitosis.  

Most of the literature available seems to indicate that the faithful who suffer from halitosis need not fear divine wrath.  Vigilant attention to oral hygiene more than makes up for the problems brought about by eating onions and garlic.  Someone who eats onions and garlic immediately before coming to any social gathering would offend just about anybody, anywhere in the world, regardless of religion.