How does one perform ghusl for major and minor ritual impurity?
Minor ritual impurity (al-hadath al-asghar) does not necessitate a ritual bath (ghusl); rather, it requires ablution (wudu') for one who intends to perform prayer (salat) or similar acts. It has two forms:
1. The complete ablution (al-wudu' al-kamil): This involves the intention (niyyah) and saying "Bismillah" (tasmiyah), then washing the hands three times, rinsing the mouth and nose (with expulsion) three times, washing the face three times, washing the arms up to the elbows three times, wiping the head once (forward and backward), wiping the ears, and washing the feet up to the ankles three times. It is also recommended to start with the right side (tayammun) and to rub the limbs (dalk). The proof for this is the hadith of Uthman (may Allah be pleased with him) describing the ablution of the Prophet (peace be upon him).
2. The sufficient ablution (al-wudu' al-mujzi'): Scholars differed regarding its pillars. The Hanafis held them to be: washing the face, washing the hands, wiping a quarter of the head, and washing the feet. The Shafi'is added the intention and proper sequence (tartib). The Hanbalis added continuity (muwalat) (and considered intention a condition). The Malikis added rubbing the limbs (dalk).
Summarized from the full answer at Ftawy · reviewed Sep 2, 2026
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