Wudu (ablution) is a purification process in Islam that involves washing specific parts of the body before performing prayer (Salah). Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to perform Wudu:
1. Intention (Niyyah):
Begin by making the intention (niyyah) in your heart that you are performing Wudu for the purpose of purification to offer prayer. It is not required to say it aloud.
2. Say Bismillah:
Start by saying “Bismillah” (In the name of Allah).
3. Wash the Hands:
Wash both hands up to the wrists three times, ensuring that water reaches between the fingers.
4. Rinse the Mouth:
Take water into your mouth with your right hand, swish it around, and spit it out. Repeat this three times.
5. Clean the Nose:
Sniff water into your nostrils with your right hand, then blow it out using your left hand. Repeat this three times.
6. Wash the Face:
Wash your face from the forehead to the chin, and from ear to ear. Ensure the entire face is covered with water. This is done once.
7. Wash the Arms:
Wash the right arm from the tips of the fingers up to the elbow, ensuring water covers all areas, including between the fingers. Do the same with the left arm. This is done once for each arm.
8. Wipe the Head:
Wet your hands and wipe your head once from the front to the back and then return your hands to the front.
9. Wipe the Ears:
Wipe the inside and outside of both ears with your wet fingers. Use your index fingers for the inside and your thumbs for the outside.
10. Wash the Feet:
Wash your right foot, including the ankle, ensuring water reaches between the toes. Then do the same with the left foot. Repeat this three times for each foot.
11. Completion:
After completing the Wudu, you can say the Shahada:
“Ashhadu an la ilaha illallah wahdahu la sharika lahu, wa ashhadu anna Muhammad abduhoo wa rasooluhu”
(I bear witness that there is no god but Allah, He is One and has no partners, and I bear witness that Muhammad is His servant and messenger.)
Once completed, you are now in a state of purity and ready to perform the prayer.