Ablutions (Wudu') - Sahih al-Bukhari

Hadith Reference: Sahih al-Bukhari 204

Text of the Hadith

"My father said, 'I saw the Prophet (ﷺ) passing wet hands over his Khuffs (socks made from thick fabric or leather).'"

Commentary on the Ruling of Wiping Over Khuffs

This narration establishes the permissibility of wiping over leather socks (khuffs) during ablution, which is a well-established concession (rukhas) in Islamic law. The scholars of jurisprudence have unanimously agreed upon its validity based on numerous authentic narrations.

The wiping is performed by moistening the hands and passing them over the upper surface of the khuffs once, unlike the washing of feet which requires thorough cleansing. This concession applies only when the khuffs are worn after proper ablution and covers the entire area required to be washed in wudu'.

Conditions for Wiping Over Khuffs

The khuffs must be worn after complete ablution; they should be pure and thick enough to prevent water from penetrating through during normal walking; they must cover the entire foot up to the ankles; and the wiping is valid for one day and night for residents, and three days and nights for travelers.

Legal Significance

This practice demonstrates the ease and flexibility in Islamic worship, removing hardship from the ummah. It is particularly beneficial in cold climates or difficult circumstances where removing footwear for each ablution would cause undue hardship. The permissibility remains valid until one of the nullifiers of wudu' occurs or the designated time period expires.