sunnah

/ˈsʊnə/
noun
  1. The body of traditional Islamic teachings and practices based on the sayings and actions of the Prophet Muhammad, used as a guide for Muslim life.
    • Following the sunnah is an important part of practicing Islam for many believers.
    • The sunnah includes guidance on everything from eating to greeting others.
    • Many Muslims study the sunnah to understand how to pray and behave in daily life.
  2. A specific practice or action that is recommended in Islam based on the example of the Prophet Muhammad, but not obligatory.
    • He considers it a sunnah to say a short prayer before eating.
    • Performing extra prayers at night is a sunnah that brings spiritual rewards.
    • Brushing your teeth with a miswak is a sunnah that many Muslims try to follow.