Rulings on Ablution (Wudu)
The rulings concerning ablution (wudu) can vary based on the context of different acts of worship. Ablution may be obligatory at times, recommended at others, and can even be deemed disliked or prohibited under certain circumstances. Below is a detailed explanation of these rulings:
- Ablution is obligatory for a Muslim if they have broken their state of purity and wish to perform a prayer, whether it be a mandatory (fard) or voluntary (nafl) prayer. This is supported by the Qur’an, the Sunnah, and the consensus of scholars.
- Ablution is considered forbidden if performed with unlawfully obtained water, such as when a Muslim takes water from another person without permission, even if they are in need.
- Ablution is recommended in various situations, such as before sleeping, when reciting the Qur’an, or simply to maintain a state of cleanliness.
- Ablution becomes disliked when a Muslim renews their wudu before engaging in an act of worship that already required the initial ablution, as this could be seen as wasteful.
- Ablution is permissible if a Muslim performs it for reasons such as seeking relief from heat or before visiting a ruler.
The Complete Method of Ablution
The complete method of performing ablution can be outlined as follows:
- Intending for ablution in the heart, followed by the use of the miswak (tooth-stick).
- Reciting the name of Allah at the beginning of the ablution.
- Washing the hands three times.
- Performing rinsing of the mouth (madmadhah) and inhaling water through the nose (istinshaq) three times.
- Washing the face three times, ensuring to moisten the beard with water.
- Washing the hands up to the elbows three times, starting with the right hand before the left.
- Wiping over the head and ears, both inside and out, just once.
- Washing the feet up to the ankles three times, commencing with the right foot followed by the left.
- Reciting the recommended supplication after completing ablution.
Nullifiers of Ablution
Ablution is invalidated by any of the following actions:
- Excretion of any kind from the private parts, including flatulence, urine, or feces.
- Excretion occurring outside of the normal exits.
- Touching the private parts directly.
- Complete loss of consciousness, such as through insanity, deep sleep, or intoxication.