The Correct Method of Performing Wudu According to the Qur’an
Wudu (ablution) is a required act of purification before performing Salah (prayer). The Qur’an clearly explains the essential steps of Wudu, making it a fundamental part of Islamic worship.
Allah Almighty says in the Qur’an:
“O you who believe! When you rise to pray, wash your faces and your hands up to the elbows, wipe over your heads, and wash your feet up to the ankles.”
(Surah Al-Ma’idah, 5:6)
This verse outlines the obligatory steps of Wudu in a clear and simple order.
Steps of Wudu According to the Qur’an
- Washing the Face
The face must be washed completely, covering the area from the forehead to the chin and from ear to ear. - Washing the Hands up to the Elbows
Both hands and arms must be washed, including the elbows. - Wiping the Head
A portion of the head must be wiped with wet hands. The Qur’an mentions wiping, not washing, which shows ease and balance in worship. - Washing the Feet up to the Ankles
Both feet must be washed thoroughly, including the ankles.
These four actions are the core obligations of Wudu as mentioned directly in the Qur’an. Any additional actions commonly practiced are based on the Sunnah, but the Qur’an itself specifies these essential steps.
Purpose of Wudu
Allah explains the wisdom behind Wudu in the same verse:
“Allah does not intend to place difficulty upon you, but He intends to purify you and complete His favor upon you so that you may be grateful.”
(Surah Al-Ma’idah, 5:6)
This shows that Wudu is not only physical cleanliness but also spiritual purification and a means of preparing oneself for prayer.
Conclusion
According to the Qur’an, Wudu is performed by washing the face, washing the hands up to the elbows, wiping the head, and washing the feet up to the ankles. These steps form the correct and complete method of Wudu as required before prayer.
Understanding Wudu through the Qur’an helps Muslims follow a clear, simple, and divinely guided method of purification.
