(the slave of 'Uthman) I saw 'Uthman bin 'Affan asking for a tumbler of water (and when it was brought) he poured water over his hands and washed them thrice and then put his right hand in the water container and rinsed his mouth, washed his nose by putting water in it and then blowing it out. then he washed his face and forearms up to the elbows thrice, passed his wet hands over his head and washed his feet up to the ankles thrice. Then he said, "Allah's Messenger (ﷺ) said 'If anyone performs ablution like that of mine and offers a two-rak'at prayer during which he does not think of anything else (not related to the present prayer) then his past sins will be forgiven.' "
Ablutions (Wudu') - Sahih al-Bukhari 159
This narration from 'Uthman bin 'Affan demonstrates the complete procedure of ritual purification (wudu') as taught and practiced by the Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ). The detailed description serves as a comprehensive guide for Muslims seeking to fulfill this fundamental religious obligation correctly.
Sequential Steps of Ablution
The narration outlines the precise order: beginning with washing hands three times, then rinsing the mouth, cleaning the nostrils, washing the face and arms up to elbows (each three times), wiping the head with wet hands, and finally washing the feet up to ankles three times. This sequence is divinely prescribed and must be maintained.
Spiritual Significance and Reward
The concluding portion reveals the profound spiritual benefit: when ablution is performed exactly as demonstrated by the Prophet and followed by a two-rak'at prayer with proper concentration, Allah forgives previous sins. This emphasizes both the physical accuracy and mental presence required in worship.
Scholarly Commentary
Classical scholars note that this hadith establishes the sunna method of wudu', highlighting the importance of washing each part three times (except the head-wiping). The promise of forgiveness for minor sins demonstrates Allah's mercy and shows how physical purification leads to spiritual cleansing when combined with sincere prayer.