The Correct Method of Wudu (Ablution) in Islam

Question: What is the correct method of performing wudu (ablution) according to the Sunnah?

Summary:

Following this order and reciting the recommended du‘ā’ upon completion of wudu reflects the Sunnah and brings great reward. These steps can be done once, twice, or three times all are from the Sunnah. Three is the maximum, and one is the minimum. Practicing this variety helps revive the Sunnah.

Answer:

In the name of Allah, all praise is due to Allah, and may Peace and Blessings be upon the Messenger of Allah (ﷺ)

The correct method of wudu according to the Sunnah is as follows:

1. Begin with intention (niyyah) and saying 'Bismillah'.

    2. Wash both hands three times.

      3. Rinse the mouth and nose three times (by putting water in the mouth and nostrils and expelling it).

        4. Wash the face three times from the hairline to the chin, and from ear to ear.

          5. Wash both arms up to and including the elbows three times.

            6. Wipe the head once.

            • There is no need to take new water for wiping the ears. The same water used for wiping the head should also be used to wipe the ears immediately afterward. This is the practice reported in the Sunnah and helps maintain the correct order and simplicity of the wudu process.

            7. Wipe the ears.

            • The ears are part of the head and should be wiped using the same wetness remaining from wiping the head. Using fresh water separately for the ears is not in accordance with the authentic reports from the Prophet ﷺ.

            8. Wash both feet up to and including the ankles three times.

              This method is based on the hadith of ʿUthmān ibn ʿAffān رضي الله عنه describing the wudu of the Prophet ﷺ as recorded in Sahih al-Bukhari.

              Additionally, after completing wudu, it is Sunnah to say the following du‘ā’:

              Ashhadu an la ilaha illallah wahdahu la sharika lah, wa ashhadu anna Muhammadan ‘abduhu wa rasuluhu.

              Allahumma aj‘alni min al-tawwabina, waj‘alni min al-mutatahhirin.

              أشهد أن لا إله إلا الله وحده لا شريك له، وأشهد أن محمدًا عبده ورسوله.

              اللهم اجعلني من التوابين، واجعلني من المتطهرين.

              And Allah knows best.

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