Ghusl (غسل) is an Arabic term referring to the full ablution in Islam. In order to enter a state of purity before Salat, a Muslim usually performs the partial ablution, or wudu. In some cases, like on a friday it is mustahab (i.e. preffered) to have a ghusl. In other cases a ghusl must be performed. These cases are:

1. After having sexual intercourse or any discharge of semen or sexual fluids.
2. After a woman completes her menstrual cycle.
3. After a new Muslim takes Shahada for the first time

The method of ghusl

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Note: The method of Ghusl varies among the different school of thoughts) of Islam.

Method according to Sunni school of thoughts

1. Make intention to perform ghusl (ie. I am making ghusl to make myself clean from impurities).
2. Wash both hands up to and including wrists.
3. Wash the private parts.
4. Perform wudu.
5. Pour water over the head three times.
6. Pour water over the right shoulder three times and over the left shoulder three times.
7. Pour water over entire body and rub. If the hair of the head is not plaited, it is compulsory to wet all the hair up to the very base.
8. Wash feet again.

It is then best to dry and put clothes on as soon as possible, trying not to talk to anyone until this is done.

Method according to the Shia school of thought^*

According to the shia school there are two main methods of performing a ghusl, for both of the ghusls one has to start by doing the niyah, i.e. the intention to remove any impurities.

• Irtimasi - one has to submerge its entire body in pure water, either at once or in stages.
• Tartibi - one needs to start by washing the head and neck, and then the rest of the body, preferably the rights side first followed by the left side.

See also

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• Mikvah

External links

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• Waterval Islamic Institute

Islam | Salat

Ghusl | Gusül