Fatwa ID: 04739

Answered by: Mufti Muhammad Afzal Hussain

Question

What is the correct procedure to perform Ghusl (purification)?

In the name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful

Answer:

The procedure of shower: The definitive obligation (Fard) of bathing is gargling (madmadah) and drawing water into the nostrils (istinshaq) as well as the washing of the entire body.

The required practice (sunnah) of shower/bath is that one taking a bath commence with the washing of his hands and private parts and remove any impurity that may be on his body. He should then perform his ablution (wudu) for prayer, except for the washing of his feet. Thereafter he should pour water three times over his head and his entire body. He should then move away from his location and wash his feet. Prophet used to delay the washing of his feet because they are planted in the place of gathering of the used water, therefore, washing them will be of no benefit, however, if he is standing on a raised floor/platform he may not delay their washing. He used, to begin with, the removal of actual impurity so that it does not spread due to the pouring of water. A woman need not open her braids (plaits) during bathing if the water can reach the roots of the hair. [See: Al-Hidayah, vol: 1, Book: Taharah, publisher: Center For Excellence In Research Islamabad]

Allama Yousuf Ludhianabi mentioned: “firstly, wash both hands and private parts. Secondly, wash if there is any dirt on any part of the body. Thirdly, perform ablution, pour water all over the body, and rub it. Lastly, wash the whole body three times.” [See: Aap Ke Masail Aur Un Ka Hal, question: 168, vol: 1, publisher: Bangladesh Islamic Centre Dhaka]

Only Allah Knows Best

Written by Mufti Muhammad Afzal Hussain

Checked and approved by Mufti Mohammed Tosir Miah

Darul Ifta Birmingham