Around 700, medieval Islamic traditions began to emphasize water ablution for ritual and personal cleansing, prioritizing it over dry materials. This practice is rooted in religious beliefs regarding purity and cleanliness, which are central to Islamic faith. The focus on water for ablution not only shaped personal hygiene practices but also influenced architectural designs, leading to the creation of public baths and fountains in Islamic societies.

The medieval Islamic emphasis on water ablution in 700 reinforced themes of purity in Sufi and classical Arabic poetry. Poets like Rumi and Al-Ghazali incorporated these spiritual practices into their works, reflecting on the relationship between the physical and the divine.