Ghusl is a major ritual purification in Islam, required to attain a state of Tuhr (purity) and allow the performance of worship acts such as prayer and fasting. For women, Ghusl becomes necessary after Hayd (menstruation), Nifas (postpartum bleeding) and Janabah (after sexual discharge or intercourse). 

Ghusl is classified into two types: acceptable and complete. The acceptable Ghusl refers to the minimum actions required for Tuhr, while the complete Ghusl follows the Sunnah practices as performed by the Prophet (peace and blessings of Allah be upon him) which makes it Mustahab (preferable). 

What is the Acceptable Ghusl (Minimum Requirement)?

The acceptable Ghusl is sufficient to achieve Tuhr (purity) without including any of the recommended Sunnah practices. It involves the following basic steps:

• Niya (Intention): Begin by forming the intention to purify oneself from a state of impurity, either from Hayd, Janabah or Nifas (postpartum bleeding).
• Washing the Body: The entire body must be washed thoroughly. This can be done by standing under a shower or immersing oneself in a natural body of water, such as the sea. Make sure that water reaches all parts of the body, including areas where it may be difficult to reach, like the armpits, behind the knees, and the roots of the hair. Additionally, it is essential to rinse the mouth and nose.

Scholars have justified the acceptable Ghusl by explaining that in the verse “If you are in a state of Janabah (i.e. after a sexual discharge), purify yourselves (bathe your whole body)” (Al-Maidah 5:6), Allah did not mention anything apart from that. Therefore, they saw that if a person washes their entire body at once, then it is true to say that they have purified himself.

What is the Complete Ghusl (Following the Sunnah)?

For the Sunnah and the Mustahab form, the complete Ghusl includes additional steps that the Prophet (peace and blessings of Allah be upon him) regularly performed. This type of Ghusl includes the following steps:

• Niya (Intention): Begin with the intention to purify oneself, just as in the acceptable Ghusl.
• Saying Bismillah: Start by saying “Bismillah” (In the name of Allah).
• Washing Hands and Private Parts: Wash the hands first, then cleanse the private parts and any area where impurity may have reached.
• Performing Wudu: Perform a full Wudu (ablution), as you would for prayer.
• Pouring Water Over the Head: Pour water over the head three times, ensuring that it reaches the roots of the hair. Rub the scalp to allow the water to reach all areas.
• Washing the Entire Body: Begin washing the body, starting with the right side, then the left, making sure that water covers every part. Use your hands to rub the body, ensuring the water reaches all areas effectively.

The evidence for the complete Ghusl comes from the hadith of Aishah (may Allah be pleased with her), who said:
“When the Messenger of Allah (blessings and peace of Allah be upon him) did Ghusl for Janabah, he would wash his hands and do Wudu as for prayer, then he would wash himself, then he would run his fingers through his hair, and when he thought that the water had reached his skin, he would pour water over his head three times, then he would wash the rest of his body.” – (Narrated by Al-Bukhari and Muslim).  

Is there a difference between Ghusl for Janabah and Ghusl after Hayd?

There is no major difference between Ghusl for Janabah (impurity following sexual intercourse) and Ghusl after menstruation. However, it is preferable for women to apply perfume to the area affected by bleeding after menstruation to remove any unpleasant odors.

Aishah (may Allah be pleased with her) narrated that Asma asked the Prophet (peace and blessings of Allah be upon him) about Ghusl following menses. He said:
“Let one of you take her water and lotus leaves and clean herself well, then let her pour water over her head and rub it vigorously so that it will reach the roots of her hair. Then let her pour the water over herself, then take a piece of cloth scented with musk and purify herself.”
Asma asked: “How should she purify herself?” He said: “Subhan-Allah! Purify yourself with it.” Aishah said—as if she whispered it to her: “Follow the traces of blood.”
She also narrated that she asked the Prophet (peace and blessings of Allah be upon him) about Ghusl in the case of Janabah. He said:
“Let her take water and clean herself well—or clean herself thoroughly—then let her pour water over her head and rub it so that it reaches the roots of the hair, then let her pour water over herself.”
Aishah then praised the women of the Ansar, saying:
“How good the women of the Ansar were! They did not let shyness prevent them from understanding their religion properly.” – (Narrated by Muslim)

Conclusion

Understanding the correct way to perform Ghusl is essential for maintaining physical cleanliness and spiritual readiness for worship. Like all acts, it is preferable to follow the Sunnah and the way it was performed by the Prophet (peace and blessings of Allah be upon him). Ghusl not only fulfills an obligation but also serves as a reminder of the importance of purification and closeness to Allah. Allah reminds us of the significance of purification in the Qur’an: “Indeed, Allah loves those who are constantly repentant and loves those who purify themselves.” – (Surah Al-Baqarah 2:222). 

By adhering to these steps, women can maintain purity and observe their faith with confidence, knowing that their efforts are beloved by Allah.

Image designed by Freepik