Is it permissible to adopt the view of Imam Ahmad concerning wiping only the front part of the head during wudu' (ablution) when one has long hair, and is this considered seeking out concessions (talfiq)? What are the boundaries of the front part of the head? And is it permissible to omit wiping the white area between the hair and the ear when adopting this view?

Two descriptions have been narrated concerning wiping the head during ablution (wudu'): The first is to wipe the head back and forth, from the front to the nape, as was narrated from Abdullah bin Zayd. The second is to wipe the entire head in the direction of the hair without disturbing it, starting from the middle, then to the front, and then to the back. This method is suitable for those with long hair, and the Messenger of Allah, peace be upon him, did this, as narrated by Ar-Rubayyi' bint Mu'awwidh.

It was narrated from Imam Ahmad that it is permissible for a woman to wipe only the front of her head, reasoning that Aisha used to do this. The front of the head is estimated to be the forelock (nasiyah). It is permissible to adopt this opinion, but the more cautious approach is to wipe the entire head.