Shaykh Muhammad ‘Awwamah (hafizahullah) says:

Imam Sufyan Thawriy (rahimahullah) said to his companions:

“If you can ensure that all your movements are in accordance with the Sunnah, then do so, even if it be a simple act like scratching your head.”

[Shaykh (hafizahullah) adds:] Let all of your actions be connected to a noble practice from the Salaf (pious predecessors) or from their leader, our master, the Messenger of Allah (sallallahu ‘alayhi wasallam). Therefore, if possible, strive to ensure that every movement you make, even a mundane act like scratching your head, is performed in adherence to one of their practices. Do not act on personal preference by doing whatever you please. No, never! Instead, you should emulate them and adhere to their guidance.

[MA-E10-1/MA-E10-2]

Reflection

It is for this precise reason that the life of our Nabiy (sallallahu ‘alayhi wasallam) has been meticulously preserved to this day; to allow every Ummati to follow him as closely as possible. Furthermore, this diligent embodiment of the Sunnah was the life-mission of the Sahabah and the pious throughout history. They serve as our guides, having proven how to faithfully implement the Sunnah in every circumstance, thereby demonstrating its timeless relevance despite the constant change in the world.