Ghusl (Major Ablution)

In the verse describing ablution in the Qur'an, those who are junub are ordered to be thoroughly cleansed and to perform ghusl.(Ma’idah, 5/6) The ablution that must be taken in cases of lustful ejaculation, sexual intercourse, nocturnal emission (ihtilam) and when the menstruation and puerperium are finished is called ghusl. Ghusl is washing the whole body with clean water. This ritual has three obligatory acts: rinsing the mouth, rinsing the nose and washing the whole body without leaving a single dry spot.

Ghusl, which is a ritual purity that allows a Muslim to perform his prayers, has many benefits. Thanks to this comprehensive purification, people remove the material dirt on them and get rid of bad odors. The body relaxes, gains vitality and blood circulation is regulated. Perhaps because of these benefits, the Prophet Muhammad (saw) stated that it is Allah's (swt) right on every Muslim to wash and perform ghusl every seven days, even if the above-mentioned requirements are not met. (Sahih al-Bukhari, Jumu’ah 12; Sahih Muslim, Jumu’ah 9)He also attached importance to the fact that this day is the Friday when Muslims come together. (Sahih al-Bukhari, Jumu’ah 2; Sahih Muslim, Jumu’ah 1) 

If a person wants to perform ghusl in accordance with its fardhs, sunnah and adab (etiquettes), he starts with the intention by saying “I intend to perform ghusl for the sake of Allah (swt)” and then recites the basmala. He washes his right and left hands up to the wrists, as in the wudu, and cleans the dirt in the private parts with his left hand. He then rinses his nose and mouth three times, ensuring it is done properly.  After washing the face and arms, one washes the head thoroughly, scrubbing the hair so water reaches the skin. Then, it pours water all over its body, especially the places where water can hardly reach, such as the navel cavity and ear hole, and washes it meticulously. If the place of washing accumulates water, the feet are to be washed at the end. Finally, when the ritual is done as explained above, the person supplicates as Prophet Muhammad (saw), the best example, did: “O Allah cleanse me of filth as a white garment is cleansed of dirt.”  (Sunan an-Nasai, Ghusl and Tayammum 4).