"Ablutions: Cleansing Rituals Across Time and Cultures" From the serene Gurdwara Bangla Sahib Sikh Temple to the unexpected sight of soldiers bathing in a brewery during World War I, they have played a significant role in various settings. In Turkey's vibrant Constantinople, now Istanbul, Top-Khane Square witnessed countless individuals partaking in these cleansing rituals. The grand Hagia Sophia stood tall with its iconic Fountain of Ablutions, inviting worshippers to purify themselves before entering its sacred halls. Meanwhile, the laver at a Turkish Bath depicted in Aubry de la Mottrayes' 1723 illustration showcased the communal nature of this ancient practice. Even amidst adversity, such as Allied prisoners of war at their ablutions in a German prison camp or a woman washing her hands before entering a shrine captured by Suzuki Harunobu's artistry in 1767, these acts remained steadfast. A glimpse into daily life revealed intriguing moments like a courtesan pensively looking at flowering while brushing her teeth on a verandah. These seemingly mundane tasks held deeper significance within cultural contexts. Religion often intertwines with ablution practices; thus, we witness Muslim men performing their ablutions before prayer or learn about the Four Great Imams who shaped Islamic jurisprudence and emphasized cleanliness as an essential aspect of faith. Intriguingly contrasting this historical tapestry is Crouching Venus—a copy of an ancient Greek sculpture—reminding us that even classical beauty sought purity through ritualistic cleansing. Through black-and-white photographs and vivid descriptions spanning time and space, one thing becomes clear: whether it be for spiritual devotion or personal hygiene purposes—ablutions connect humanity across cultures and generations.