"When the Messenger of Allah (ﷺ) performed Ghusl from Janabah, he would start by washing his hands, then he would pour water with his right hand onto his left and wash his private part, then he would strike his hand on the ground then wipe it then wash it. Then he would perform Wudu' as for prayer, then he would pour water on his head and all of his body. Then he would move and wash his feet."
The Book of Ghusl and Tayammum - Sunan an-Nasa'i
Hadith Reference: Sunan an-Nasa'i 419
Textual Analysis
This narration details the precise method of ritual purification (ghusl) from major impurity (janabah) as practiced by the Prophet Muhammad ﷺ. The systematic approach demonstrates the importance of thoroughness and order in Islamic purification rituals.
Step-by-Step Commentary
Washing Hands: The initial hand washing removes any physical impurities and prepares one for the purification ritual, following the principle of beginning with cleanliness.
Pouring Water and Washing Private Parts: Using the right hand to pour water onto the left hand establishes the proper method of handling water during purification. The specific mention of washing the private part addresses the primary area requiring purification.
Striking Hand on Ground and Wiping: This action serves to remove any remaining impurities from the hands before continuing with the full purification process, ensuring no contamination is transferred to other body parts.
Performing Wudu': The inclusion of the complete ablution (wudu) within the major purification emphasizes that ghusl encompasses all requirements of minor ablution, thereby fulfilling both obligations simultaneously.
Pouring Water Over Head and Body: This constitutes the essential act of ghusl - ensuring water reaches all parts of the body, including the hair roots. The comprehensive nature ensures no part remains dry.
Moving and Washing Feet: The final step of washing feet separately, after moving from the initial position, ensures thorough cleansing and prevents recontamination from the washing area.
Juridical Significance
This hadith establishes the sunnah method of ghusl, which combines both the obligatory elements (water reaching entire body) and recommended practices (specific order and additional cleansing). Scholars note that while the exact sequence is recommended, the fundamental requirement remains ensuring water reaches all body surfaces.
The narration also demonstrates the integration of wudu within ghusl, indicating that one who performs ghusl according to this method need not perform separate wudu for prayer.
Spiritual Dimensions
Beyond physical cleanliness, this meticulous process symbolizes spiritual purification - washing away spiritual impurities and preparing the believer for communion with Allah. Each step represents a movement from impurity to purity, both physically and metaphysically.
The prescribed method teaches mindfulness, intentionality, and the importance of following prophetic example in all aspects of life, even in seemingly mundane acts of purification.