Wudu is a process of cleansing oneself before offering prayers. Muslims all over the world perform this ablution ritual to purify their souls and bodies.
If you are a beginner and new to Islam, it may seem complicated to know how to make Wudu. However, it is not as difficult as it seems. Here in this article, we will discuss how to make Wudu step by step, so let’s get started.
Step 1: Make an intention (Niyyah)
Before starting Wudu, the first step is to make an intention to purify your body and soul. The intention (Niyyah) is the key to all acts of worship. You don't have to say it out loud or use a specific formula; it's a feeling in your heart that you are performing Wudu solely for the sake of pleasing Allah.
Step 2: Say Bismillah
Start Wudu by saying "Bismillah," which means "In the name of Allah." It is recommended to say it before starting every act of worship.
Step 3: Wash your hands three times.
The first step in Wudu is to wash your hands three times up to your wrist. Start by washing the right hand and then the left.
Step 4: Rinse your mouth three times.
Next, take a small amount of water in your mouth and rinse it three times. Swirl it around in your mouth and then spit it out.
Step 5: Cleanse your nose three times.
After rinsing your mouth, use your right hand to take water into your nose and blow it out three times. Make sure to clean your nose thoroughly.
Step 6: Wash your face three times.
Next, wash your face three times, starting from the hairline down to the chin, and from ear to ear. Use your right hand to do this, and make sure that you cleanse from the corners of your eyes and your beard. Women should pull their hijab aside to allow their face to be fully cleaned.
Step 7: Wash your arms, including the elbow, three times.
The next step is to wash your arms, including the elbow. First, wash your right hand and then your left, three times. Make sure to clean the area between the fingers.
Step 8: Wipe your head
After washing your arms, wipe your head once with wet hands from the front of your forehead to the back of your head. Then bring your hands back to the starting position.
Step 9: Wipe your ears.
After wiping your head, use your index fingers to wipe the inside and outside of your ears once each.
Step 10: Wash your feet, including the ankles, three times.
Finally, wash your feet three times, starting with your right foot and then your left. Be sure to wash between your toes and up to your ankles.
Step 11: Recite the Shahada
Once you have completed Wudu, recite the Shahada, which is the declaration of faith in Islam. Say “Ash-hadu an la ilaha illallah, wa ash-hadu anna Muhammadar Rasulullah,” which means “I bear witness that there is no god but Allah, and I bear witness that Muhammad is His servant and messenger.”
Congratulations! You have now completed your Wudu.
Conclusion
Wudu is an essential part of Islam that cleanses the body and soul before offering prayers. It is essential to understand the steps of Wudu so you can perform it correctly. Remember that the intention is one of the most crucial parts of any act of worship. So, before you start performing Wudu, make sure you have the right mindset, and you are doing it only for the sake of Allah.
Once you have completed the Wudu, you will feel spiritually at peace and closer to Allah. It is a simple yet profound act of worship that should be performed regularly throughout the day. May Allah accept our prayers and make it easy for us to perform Wudu correctly. Ameen.