Q1: What are the 4 obligatory (Fard) acts of Wudu?
Answer: Wudu is incomplete without performing these 4 obligatory acts:
- Washing the entire face: From the hairline down to the chin, and from earlobe to earlobe.
- Washing both arms: Up to and including the elbows.
- Performing Masah: Wiping at least one-fourth (1/4) of the head with wet hands.
- Washing both feet: Up to and including the ankles.
Q2: Why is Wudu performed before Salat?
Answer: Wudu is performed to achieve spiritual and physical purification from both invisible minor ritual impurities (najāsah ḥukmiyyah) and visible physical impurities before offering prayer.
Q3: What are the recommended etiquettes (Adab) before starting Wudu?
Answer: Before starting Wudu:
- Ensure the water is clean and pure.
- Sit in a clean, elevated position.
- Face the direction of the Qiblah.
- Begin by reciting Bismillah.
Q4: What should be used for dental hygiene during Wudu if a Miswak is unavailable?
Answer: If a traditional Miswak (tooth stick) is not available, you should clean your teeth by rubbing them with your finger after rinsing your mouth.
Q5: What is the correct method and boundary for washing the face in Wudu?
Answer:
- Method: Do not splash water harshly onto the face; gently run water starting from the forehead.
- Boundaries: Wash from the top of the forehead (hairline) down to the bottom of the chin, and horizontally from one ear to the other (three times).
Q6: How should Masah (wiping) be performed during Wudu?
Answer: Wet your palms with clean water and wipe over the head, ears, and neck in that specific order. Masah over at least one-fourth of the head is strictly obligatory (Fard).
Q7: How many Sunnah and Mustahabb acts are in Wudu?
Answer: Apart from the 4 obligatory (Fard) acts, Wudu includes 13 Sunnah acts and 5 Mustahabb (recommended) acts.
