Purity is a key part of our faith. Islam teaches us to stay clean not just physically, but spiritually too. One key act of purification is ghusl, the full-body ritual washing required in certain situations. It restores spiritual purity and prepares you for acts of worship like salah (prayer), reciting the Quran, and entering the mosque.
In this guide, we will explain how to perform ghusl properly, why it is important, and when it is required. You will also learn how to follow the sunnah of the Prophet (PBUH) and keep your worship valid and accepted.
Why Ghusl Is Important in Islam
Ghusl is a form of taharah (purification). It becomes obligatory after certain situations like Janabah (major impurity), menstruation, or childbirth bleeding.
Allah says in the Quran:
“And if you are in a state of full impurity, then take a full bath.”
(Surah Al-Ma’idah, 5:6)
This shows that ghusl is not just recommended, it is required before you can perform acts of worship like salah or touching the Quran.
When to Perform Ghusl
All schools agree that ghusl must be done after:
a. Sexual activity (even without ejaculation).
b. Ejaculation of semen (in sleep or awake).
c. Menstruation ends.
d. Post-natal bleeding ends.
c. Death (for the deceased Muslim).
Other cases:
a. After converting to Islam:
Maliki, Hanbali, Shafi’i & Imami: Ghusl is required.
Hanafi: Not required unless the person is in a state of major impurity.
b. After touching a dead body:
Imami: Ghusl is required if the body hasn’t been washed yet.
Sunni Schools: Ghusl is not required but recommended if you washed the body.
How to Perform Ghusl for Males (Sunnah Method)
Let’s go through the full ghusl step by step for men, based on authentic Sunnah.
Step 1: Intention (Niyyah)
Intend in your heart that you are performing ghusl to purify yourself. You don’t need to say it out loud.
Step 2: Say Bismillah
Start by saying “Bismillah”.
Step 3: Perform Istinja
Clean the private area using the left hand. Remove any impurity.
Step 4: Perform Wudu
Do a complete wudu. You can delay washing your feet until the end if you’re standing in a place where water collects.
Step 5: Wash the Head and Hair
Pour water over your head three times. Make sure it reaches the roots of your hair and scalp.
Step 6: Wash the Entire Body
Start with the right side, then the left. Ensure water reaches every part of the body, including underarms, in between fingers and toes, and behind ears.
Now you are in a state of complete purity.
Obligatory (Fardh) Steps of Ghusl
Madhhab
Obligatory Steps
Hanafi
1. Rinse your mouth
2. Rinse your nose
3. Wash the entire body
Shafi’i
1. Intention
2. Remove impurities
3. Water must reach the whole body
Maliki
1. Intention
2. Wash the whole body
Hanbali
1. Intention
2. Water must cover the entire body
Imami (Shia)
Tartibi (Sequential):
1. Intention
2. Wash head & neck
3. Wash the right side
4. Wash the left side
Irtimasi (Immersion):
1. Intention
2. Submerge the whole body in water
Mustahabb Ghusl: Recommended Ghusl in Islam
In addition to the obligatory ghusl, there are also recommended (mustahabb) times when performing ghusl brings a reward. These occasions are not compulsory but are encouraged in Islam, as they bring additional cleanliness and spiritual benefits.
1. Ghusl on Fridays
One of the most widely recommended times for ghusl is before the Friday prayer. The Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) emphasised the importance of ghusl before attending the Friday prayer:
“Ghusl on the day of Jumu'ah is obligatory for every adult.”
(Sahih al-Bukhari 879)
2. Ghusl Before Eid Prayers
It is also highly recommended to perform ghusl before the two Eid prayers (Eid al-Fitr and Eid al-Adha). The Prophet (PBUH) used to encourage this practice:
“The Prophet (PBUH) would take a bath on the day of Eid al-Fitr.”
(Sunan Ibn Majah 1316)
Performing ghusl before Eid prayers signifies the importance of approaching these blessed occasions in a state of purity and readiness to worship.
3. Ghusl Before Entering Makkah or Madinah
When preparing for Hajj or Umrah, it is recommended to perform ghusl before entering Makkah or Madinah. The Prophet (PBUH) himself performed ghusl before entering these sacred cities.
4. Ghusl Before Wearing Ihram
Before wearing the Ihram for Hajj or Umrah, it is mustahabb (recommended) to perform ghusl. This is based on the practice of the Prophet (PBUH), who did so to maintain physical and spiritual purity.
Conclusion
Ghusl is a meaningful practice that helps you connect with your faith. It cleanses the body and prepares the soul for worship. Whether you're learning how to perform ghusl or understanding its significance after certain circumstances, remember that it’s not just about hygiene, but an act of worship.
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Yes, it is allowed to use soap, shampoo, or any other cleansing products during ghusl. However, the key requirement is that the water must reach every part of your body, including under the hair and nails.
Q2. Do I need to repeat wudu after Ghusl?
No, if you perform wudu as part of the ghusl (which is required to be done in sequence), there is no need to repeat it separately.
Q3. Can I do ghusl without removing my nail polish?
No, you must remove any nail polish before performing ghusl. The water must be able to reach every part of your body, including your nails.
Q4. What if I forget a part of my body?
If you remember immediately, wash that part. However, if a long time has passed and you’re unsure if your ghusl was valid, it is recommended to repeat the ghusl to ensure full purification.
Q5. Is ghusl required before every prayer?
Ghusl is not required before every prayer, only in cases of specific ritual impurity. Regular ablution (wudu) is sufficient for prayers, unless there is a reason that requires ghusl (e.g., after intimacy or menstruation).
