Is it permissible to complete the prayer and ablution if the nasal blockage, which had been preventing inhalation from one nostril during ablution, clears during the prayer?
In ablution, sniffing water into the nostrils (istanshaq) is obligatory, based on what has been authentically reported from the Prophet, peace and blessings be upon him, regarding his action and command concerning it, and because it is included in washing the face. It is sufficient to draw water into the nostrils by inhaling, not merely placing water in the nose. If one nostril is blocked, sniffing water into the open nostril is sufficient. It is not necessary to draw water to the deepest part of the nose or the nasal passages if doing so would cause harm.
Summarized from the full answer at Ftawy · reviewed Sep 2, 2026
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