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Wudu

Wudu (Arabic: الوضوء‎ al-wuḍūʼ) is the Islamic procedure for cleansing parts of the body, a type of ritual purification, or ablution. Wudu is an important part of ritual purity in Islam and is required before performing the five daily prayers (Salah), handling and reading the Quran, and other acts of worship.

Etymology

The term "wudu" is derived from the Arabic root "waḍaʼa" (وضأ), which means "to be pure or clean". The practice is also referred to as "ablution" in English.

Importance in Islam

Wudu is considered an essential practice in Islam, as it is a prerequisite for the validity of Salah, the second pillar of Islam. The Quran emphasizes the importance of cleanliness and purification, and wudu is a means to achieve this state of physical and spiritual cleanliness.

Procedure

The procedure of wudu involves washing specific parts of the body in a particular order. The steps are as follows:

1. Intention (Niyyah): The individual must have the intention to perform wudu for the purpose of worship. 2. Bismillah: Begin by saying "Bismillah" (In the name of Allah). 3. Washing the Hands: Wash both hands up to the wrists three times. 4. Rinsing the Mouth: Rinse the mouth three times. 5. Nasal Cleansing: Sniff water into the nostrils and blow it out three times. 6. Washing the Face: Wash the face from the hairline to the chin and from ear to ear three times. 7. Washing the Arms: Wash the right arm up to the elbow three times, then the left arm. 8. Wiping the Head: Wipe the head with wet hands once. 9. Wiping the Ears: Wipe the inside and outside of the ears with the index fingers and thumbs. 10. Washing the Feet: Wash the right foot up to the ankles three times, then the left foot.

Conditions for Validity

For wudu to be valid, certain conditions must be met:

- Clean Water: The water used must be clean and pure. - Removal of Impurities: Any physical impurities must be removed from the body before performing wudu. - Order and Continuity: The steps must be performed in the correct order without significant interruption.

Nullifiers of Wudu

Wudu is nullified by certain actions, which include:

- Natural Discharges: Such as urination, defecation, and passing gas. - Deep Sleep: Sleeping in a manner that loses awareness. - Loss of Consciousness: Fainting or intoxication. - Touching Private Parts: Direct contact without a barrier.

Also see

- Salah - Ghusl - Tayammum - Islamic Hygiene

References

- Quran, Surah Al-Ma'idah (5:6) - Sahih Bukhari, Book of Ablution - Sahih Muslim, Book of Purification