Prayer is the key to Paradise, and cleanliness is the key to prayer. Therefore, every Muslim must know How to Perform Ablution (Wudu) Step-by-Step correctly. Without it, the Salah (prayer) is invalid.
Many people make small mistakes that can ruin their purity. In this comprehensive Wudu guide, we will explain the process, highlight the mandatory Faraid of Wudu, and list the rewarding Sunnahs of Ablution.
The Essential Faraid of Wudu (Obligatory Acts)
Before we start the steps, we must understand the requirements. If you miss any of these, the Wudu remains incomplete. The Quran specifies four Faraid of Wudu:
- Washing the face: From hairline to chin and ear to ear.
- Washing arms: Including the elbows.
- Wiping the head (Masah): At least one-fourth of the head.
- Washing feet: Including the ankles.
Consequently, you must ensure water touches every part of these areas.
Step-by-Step Wudu Guide
To perform Wudu like the Prophet (PBUH), follow these instructions carefully. This section combines the obligations with the Sunnahs of Ablution.
- Make Intention (Niyyah): First, resolve in your heart to purify yourself for Allah. Say “Bismillah” (In the name of Allah).
- Wash Hands: Wash both hands up to the wrists three times. Ensure you clean between the fingers.
- Rinse Mouth (Madmadah): Take water into your mouth and rinse it thoroughly three times.
- Clean Nose (Istinshaq): Sniff water gently into the nose and blow it out three times.
- Wash Face: Now, wash your entire face three times. This is the first Fard.
- Wash Arms: Wash the right arm up to the elbow three times, then do the same for the left arm.
- Wipe Head and Ears: Wipe your wet hands over your head (Masah). Then, use your index fingers to clean inside the ears and thumbs for behind the ears.
- Wash Feet: Finally, wash the right foot up to the ankle three times, ensuring water reaches between the toes. Repeat for the left foot.
Important Sunnahs of Ablution
While the Faraid are mandatory, the Sunnahs of Ablution perfect the act. Following them increases the reward.
- Miswak: Using a tooth-stick before Wudu cleans the mouth effectively.
- Sequence (Tartib): Washing the parts in the correct order is a Sunnah (and Wajib in some schools).
- Continuity: Do not take long pauses; wash the next part before the previous one dries.
Therefore, we should strive to include these Sunnahs in our routine.
Conclusion
To summarize, knowing How to Perform Ablution (Wudu) Step-by-Step is the foundation of our worship. By protecting the Faraid of Wudu and reviving the Sunnahs of Ablution, we prepare ourselves physically and spiritually for prayer.
After finishing, recite the Shahada. The Prophet (PBUH) said that the eight gates of Paradise open for the one who does so.