I did ask this question once before in a thread somewhere, but I think it got lost in amongst so many other questions.
I am currently reading a book about the the basics of Islam, including the ways to ceremonially prepare for prayer. One of the key issues that are constantly raised, is the need for ceremonial cleanliness and particularly in certain circumstances.
My question is, Muhammed reportedly was quoted by his son in law as saying, that" anyone who leaves,but one hair unwashed on his body, will be punished in hell accordingly" (Mishkat b11.c.vii) Now if that is the case, and if ritual cleansing not done properly leads to such drastic punishment, do you always know that you are acceptable when you pray, and what of the punishment? is there anything in Islam which enables you to deal with such things not done correctly?