(the freed slave of `Uthman bin `Affan) I saw `Uthman bin `Affan asking (for a tumbler of water) to perform ablution (and when it was brought) he poured water from it over his hands and washed them thrice and then put his right hand in the water container and rinsed his mouth and washed his nose by putting water in it and then blowing it out. Then he washed his face thrice and (then) forearms up to the elbows thrice, then passed his wet hands over his head and then washed each foot thrice. After that `Uthman said, "I saw the Prophet (ﷺ) performing ablution like this of mine, and he 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 164
This narration from Humran, the freed slave of 'Uthman bin 'Affan, provides a detailed description of the Prophet's ablution method as witnessed and practiced by the Companion 'Uthman.
Step-by-Step Wudu' Procedure
1. Begin by washing both hands three times up to the wrists
2. Take water into the mouth and rinse thoroughly (madmada)
3. Inhale water into the nostrils and then expel it (istinshaq)
4. Wash the entire face three times, from hairline to chin and ear to ear
5. Wash each arm up to the elbow three times, beginning with the right
6. Perform masah - wiping the entire head with wet hands once
7. Wash each foot up to the ankles three times, beginning with the right
Scholarly Commentary
This hadith establishes the complete method of wudu' as practiced by the Prophet (ﷺ). The triple washing of each part emphasizes thoroughness in purification. Scholars note that the sequence must be maintained as described.
The narration also highlights the spiritual benefits: performing wudu' in this manner followed by two rak'ahs of prayer with full concentration leads to forgiveness of minor sins. This demonstrates the connection between physical purity and spiritual reward in Islamic worship.
Legal Rulings Derived
• Wudu' must be performed in the prescribed sequence (tartib)
• Each act should be performed three times except for wiping the head
• Beginning with the right side is recommended (mustahabb)
• Continuity (muwalat) between acts is required for validity
• The spiritual state during prayer affects the acceptance of worship