What is the meaning of the sock remaining firm on the feet, and does this condition apply to light, transparent, and torn socks? Is the concession for wiping over socks permissible absolutely, or only when there is a hardship that prevents their removal?

The condition for socks (khuffayn) to be firm means that they remain firmly on the feet and do not fall off while walking. A group of Companions permitted wiping over them.

Many scholars stipulated that the sock must be opaque, thick, and durable enough for walking, while others did not impose these conditions. They relied on the absence of a specific text, on analogy with leather slippers (khuff), and on the need for wiping, arguing that differentiating between leather, wool, or other materials is irrelevant.

The correct view is that it is permissible to wipe over thin, transparent, and torn socks, as long as the term "sock" still applies to them. This is because there is no evidence for the stipulated conditions, and the wisdom behind permitting wiping (alleviation) is present in thin socks just as it is in thick ones.

It is permissible to wipe over socks even if there is no hardship, as this is legislated for ease and facilitation.