how to perform ghusl

To perform Ghusl (the full ritual purification bath in Islam), follow these steps based on the Sunni and Shia traditions, incorporating the essential acts required:

Essential Steps of Ghusl (Sunni Method)

1. Make the Intention (Niyyah)
   Internally resolve to perform Ghusl for purification from major impurity.

2. Say Bismillah (In the Name of Allah)

3. Wash Hands
   Wash both hands thoroughly up to the wrists three times.

4. Wash the Private Parts and Remove Impurities
   Clean the private parts and any filth from the body using the left hand.

5. Perform Wudu (Ablution)
   Perform wudu as for prayer, including rinsing the mouth and nostrils thoroughly once. If sitting on a stool or stone, wash the feet during wudu; otherwise, feet can be washed at the end.

6. Pour Water Over the Head Three Times
   Pour water over the head ensuring it reaches the roots of the hair.

7. Wash the Entire Body
   Pour water over the right side of the body thoroughly, rubbing to ensure water reaches all parts, then do the same for the left side. Pass hands over the body to ensure no area is left dry.

8. Wash the Feet
   If not washed during wudu, wash the feet after the body is washed.

9. Optional : Recite the Shahada (testimony of faith) at the end.

If any part is left dry, it should be washed again, but the entire ghusl need not be repeated

Shia Method of Ghusl

There are two methods:

• Ghusl Tartibi (Sequential Washing)
  After removing impurities and making intention, wash the body in three stages:

  1. Head and neck
  2. Right side of the body from shoulder to foot (some of the left side should also be washed)
  3. Left side of the body similarly
     Water must reach the skin and hair roots.

• Ghusl Irtimasi (Immersion)
  The entire body is immersed in water all at once (e.g., in a pool or river) ensuring water reaches all parts including hair and skin underneath

Additional Sunnah (Recommended) Acts

• Wash hands up to elbows before starting
• Wash private parts and remove dirt before wudu
• Avoid talking during ghusl
• Shake off excess water instead of rubbing with a towel after ghusl

This process ensures spiritual and physical purification as prescribed in Islamic law.