"Uthman called for water for Wudu'. He washed his hands three times, then he rinsed his mouth and nose, then he washed his face three times, then washed his right hand up to the elbow three times. Then he washed his left hand likewise. Then he washed his left hand likewise. Then he wiped his head, then he washed his right foot up to the ankle three times, and he washed his left foot likewise, and he washed his left foot likewise. Then he said: 'I saw the Messenger of Allah (ﷺ) performing Wudu' as I have just done.' Then he said: "The Messenger of Allah (ﷺ) said: 'Whoever performs Wudu' as I have just done, then prayes two Rak'ahs without letting his thoughts wander, his previous sins will be forgiven.'"
The Book of Purification - Sunan an-Nasa'i 116
A comprehensive commentary on the proper method of ablution (wudu') as demonstrated by the Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) through the narration of Uthman ibn Affan.
The Sequence of Wudu'
The hadith establishes the precise order of wudu': washing hands, rinsing mouth and nose, washing face, washing arms to elbows, wiping head, and washing feet to ankles - all performed three times except for wiping the head.
The repetition of "he washed his left hand likewise" and "he washed his left foot likewise" emphasizes the equal treatment of both sides in purification.
Scholarly Commentary
Classical scholars note that this narration demonstrates the sunnah method of performing each action three times in wudu', except for wiping the head which is done once. The thoroughness in washing each limb reflects the completeness required in ritual purification.
The chain of transmission through Uthman ibn Affan, a close companion and third caliph, gives this narration exceptional authenticity and weight in Islamic jurisprudence.
Spiritual Dimensions
The promise of forgiveness for previous sins connected to proper wudu' followed by focused prayer highlights the spiritual dimension of physical purification. Scholars explain that "without letting his thoughts wander" refers to maintaining presence of heart and mindfulness during prayer.
This combination of correct physical action and spiritual attentiveness creates the conditions for divine forgiveness, demonstrating how outward acts of worship cleanse both the body and soul.