Wudu (Arabic: الوضوء, Persian: آبدست, Turkish: abdest) is the prescribed Islamic act of ablution in which particular parts of the body are washed or wiped with water before performing certain forms of worship. It functions as both a physical and symbolic purification, most commonly required before the canonical prayers (salah).
Typical steps and practice
Wudu normally follows a sequence intended to be simple and repeatable. Many Muslims make a silent intention (niyyah) to perform wudu, then proceed to wash or wipe body parts in order. Commonly cited actions include:
- Washing the hands up to the wrists
- Rinsing the mouth and nose
- Washing the face
- Washing the forearms up to the elbows
- Wiping the head and ears
- Washing the feet up to the ankles
The precise words, number of repetitions, and small details vary by legal school and local custom; for example, some Muslims wash each part three times while others perform single washes for specific limbs.
When wudu is required
Wudu is principally required before the five daily prayers and is often performed before entering a mosque or handling a copy of the Qur'an, though jurists differ on the rules about touching the holy book. It is also renewed if an act occurs that invalidates the ablution.
Common causes that nullify wudu include natural discharges from the private parts, passing wind, and loss of consciousness (for example through deep sleep). Beyond these, scholars debate certain cases such as minor bleeding or skin conditions; individuals usually follow the rulings of their chosen legal school or local authority.
When water is unavailable or its use would cause harm, Islam provides an alternative called tayammum (dry ablution) using clean earth or dust. For major ritual impurities, a full ritual bath known as ghusl is prescribed instead of wudu.
Historically and spiritually, wudu is rooted in scriptural guidance and early Muslim practice and serves as a brief moment of preparation and reflection before prayer. It also carries practical hygienic benefits and has led to varied cultural practices around washrooms, fountains, and mosque ablution areas in Muslim societies.