Wudu is the washing a Muslim performs before prayer and touching the Mushaf. It takes only two or three minutes and brings both cleanliness and reward.
The steps of wudu
Begin with the intention and "Bismillah":
- Wash the hands three times
- Rinse the mouth and nose three times
- Wash the face three times
- Wash the arms up to the elbows, right then left
- Wipe the head once, and the ears
- Wash the feet up to the ankles, right then left
لَا تُقْبَلُ صَلَاةُ مَنْ أَحْدَثَ حَتَّى يَتَوَضَّأَ
“The prayer of one who has broken his ablution is not accepted until he performs wudu.”
What breaks wudu
Using the toilet, passing wind, deep sleep and losing consciousness. Scholars of the four schools differ on some details; ask your teacher about the view you follow.
Teaching children
Do wudu together slowly and let them copy you. Our Islamic studies classes for kids teach wudu and salah step by step.
Keep learning with Alazhar School
Short Quran lessons, recitations and tips every week.
Topics covered in this guide
- how to make wudu
- wudu steps
- ablution in Islam
- Islamic studies for kids
Knowledge check
One-question quick quiz
If a fasting person eats by mistake, what should they do?
Frequently asked
Learning with Al-Azhar online
Can I study Islamic Studies online from the USA, UK or Europe?
Yes. Live one-to-one classes are scheduled around international time zones, with the same teacher each week.
Are male and female Al-Azhar teachers available?
Yes. Families may request a qualified male or female teacher, subject to schedule availability.
Can I try a class before choosing a plan?
Yes. Every learner can book a 100% free trial class to meet a teacher and receive a starting-level recommendation.
