How to Perform Wuḍūʼ (Ablution)

Purification for prayer and Qur'ān recitation. Follow the prophetic sequence, and mind school‑specific obligations where they apply.

1) Intention & Basmalah

  • Form the intention in your heart to perform wudu for worship.
  • Say the basmalah (recommended):

بِسْمِ اللَّهِ

Bismillāh

2) Wash hands ×3

  • Start with right hand, then left, up to wrists, as Sunnah before entering core fard.
  • Remove tangible dirt/impurities if present.

3) Rinse mouth (madmaḍah) ×3

  • Swirl water around and expel. Using the right hand to scoop is recommended.
  • Avoid swallowing if fasting; do it lightly.

4) Rinse nose (istinshāq) & expel (istinṯār) ×3

  • Gently sniff water into the nostrils with the right hand, expel with the left.
  • Lightly when fasting.

5) Wash face ×3 (FARD)

  • Bounds: hairline to chin, ear to ear. Ensure water reaches all areas (around nose, lips).
  • For a sparse beard: ensure water reaches the skin beneath.

6) Wash arms including elbows ×3 (FARD)

  • Right then left; remove rings/watches to ensure water reaches skin.

7) Wipe head (masḥ) (FARD)

  • Wet hands and wipe head once. Schools differ on minimum; full wipe is recommended.
  • Ears: many treat as part of head‑wipe — wipe inside with index fingers, outside with thumbs (once).
  • Nape/neck wipe has weak basis; omit to be safe.

8) Wash feet including ankles ×3 (FARD)

  • Right then left. Rub between toes (khilāl). Ensure heels/ankles are fully washed.

9) Closing dhikr

  • Recite the shahāda and the dua after wudu.

أَشْهَدُ أَنْ لَا إِلٰهَ إِلَّا اللَّهُ وَحْدَهُ لَا شَرِيكَ لَهُ، وَأَشْهَدُ أَنَّ مُحَمَّدًا عَبْدُهُ وَرَسُولُهُ — اللَّهُمَّ اجْعَلْنِي مِنَ التَّوَّابِينَ وَاجْعَلْنِي مِنَ الْمُتَطَهِّرِينَ

Ashhadu an lā ilāha illallāh, wahdahu lā sharīka lah, wa ashhadu anna Muḥammadan ‘abduhu wa rasūluh. — Allāhummaj‘alnī mina t‑tawwābīn waj‘alnī minal‑muṭaṭahhirīn.

This guide summarizes mainstream positions. For specific circumstances (medical, travel, madhhab‑specific), consult a qualified local scholar.