How do you perform wudu (ablution) correctly?
Quick Answer
Wudu involves washing the hands, mouth, nose, face, arms to elbows, wiping the head and ears, and washing the feet to the ankles, in a specific order with the intention of purification.
Detailed Answer
Wudu is required before salah and is described in Quran 5:6.
Steps: 1. Intention (niyyah) in the heart. 2. Say Bismillah. 3. Wash hands three times up to the wrists. 4. Rinse the mouth three times (madmadah). 5. Sniff water into the nose and blow out three times (istinshaq). 6. Wash the face three times from forehead to chin, ear to ear. 7. Wash the right arm to the elbow three times, then the left. 8. Wipe the head once with wet hands, including the ears. 9. Wash the right foot to the ankle three times, then the left.
Things that nullify wudu: passing urine/stool/gas, deep sleep, loss of consciousness, and (per most madhabs) touching private parts directly.
Sources
- Quran 5:6
- Sahih Bukhari 159
- Sahih Muslim 226
Madhab Notes
Madhabs differ slightly: Hanafis consider three washes sunnah and one fard; the order and washing of feet (vs. wiping over socks) also has detailed rulings.
Disclaimer: This answer is educational guidance based on authentic sources. For binding rulings on personal matters, please consult a qualified Islamic scholar.