Is it better to wipe over socks or wash feet during wudu?

In a Nutshell: While washing the feet is the preferred method of purification for Wudu, Islam offers a concession (Rukhsah) allowing travellers and those wearing thick socks to wipe over them (Masah) for a specific duration. This answer explores the evidences permitting Masah, analyzes the scholarly opinions and clarifies common misconceptions. Table of Contents Introduction Background and Context Evidences Wiping vs. Washing Feet During Wudu Misconceptions about Wiping over Socks FAQs about Wiping over Socks Conclusion Introduction Wudu, the Islamic ritual purification, is obligatory before performing prayers (Salat). It involves washing specific parts of the body, including the face, hands, forearms, head and feet. However, Islam acknowledges situations where washing the feet might pose a difficulty. This answer discusses the permissibility of wiping over socks (Masah) during Wudu, exploring the relevant hadiths, scholarly opinions and addressing common misconceptions. Evidences Hadiths on Wiping over Socks: Several hadiths mention the Prophet Muhammad (saw) permitting companions to wipe over their leather socks (khuff) during travel. Here are two narrations: Narrated Abdullah ibnAmr ibn Al-As': The Messenger of Allah (saw) commanded us, when we were on a journey, to wipe over our socks for three days and nights, (during travel) in case of minor impurity (i.e., passing wind), but not including (the period of) major impurity (i.e., sexual intercourse or nocturnal emission). (Sahih al-Bukhari) Narrated Ali ibn Abi Talib: The Prophet (saw) used to wipe over the khuffayn (leather socks) on a journey. (Sahih Muslim) Narrated Abdullah ibnAmr ibn Al-As': The Messenger of Allah (saw) commanded us, when we were on a journey, to wipe over our socks for three days and nights, (during travel) in case of minor impurity (i.e., passing wind), but not including (the period of) major impurity (i.e., sexual intercourse or nocturnal emission). (Sahih al-Bukhari) Narrated Ali ibn Abi Talib: The Prophet (saw) used to wipe over the khuffayn (leather socks) on a journey. (Sahih Muslim) These hadiths establish the permissibility of Masah for travellers, highlighting the practicality and ease Islam offers in situations of hardship. Scholarly Opinions on Masah: There is scholarly consensus (Ijma') on the permissibility of Masah based on the aforementioned hadiths. However, there are minor differences in juristic interpretations regarding the duration and materials for Masah. The Hanafi, Maliki and Shafi'i schools permit wiping over leather socks for a specific duration (usually 24 hours for residents and 72 hours for travellers) after performing Wudu while wearing them. The Hanbali school allows Masah for a longer duration but emphasizes the importance of the socks being clean and thick enough to prevent water reaching the feet. These scholarly opinions demonstrate the flexibility within Islamic law to accommodate various circumstances. Wiping vs. Washing Feet During Wudu While washing the feet during Wudu is the ideal method for complete purification, Masah serves as a concession for travellers and those facing challenges. Historical Context:The hadiths permitting Masah emerged during a time when extensive travel was common. Wiping over socks offered a practical solution for those traversing harsh terrains or facing cold weather conditions. Scholarly Debates:Debates revolve around the extent of travel qualifying for Masah and the precise thickness and material requirements for the socks. These discussions highlight the importance of seeking guidance from qualified scholars within one's chosen school of Islamic jurisprudence (Madhhab). Balancing Ease with Thorough Purification:Masah embodies the Islamic principle of balancing hardship (Mashaqqah) with religious obligations (taklif). While thorough purification remains essential, Islam provides concessions for situations where washing might pose a difficulty. Misconceptions about Wiping over Socks There are several common misconceptions regarding Masah that require clarification: Wiping is always preferable to washing the feet. Washing the feet remains the preferred method for Wudu as it ensures complete purification. However, Masah serves as a legitimate concession in permitted situations. Any type of sock can be wiped over. Hadiths and scholarly opinions specify that Masah is valid only for thick, leather socks that can retain their shape and prevent water from reaching the feet. Thin or wet socks are not suitable for wiping over. Wiping might not achieve complete cleanliness, especially if the socks are dirty. Masah is only permitted for clean socks worn over clean feet after performing Wudu. If the socks become soiled during wear, they must be washed before Masah becomes valid again. The concession of Masah is abused for convenience, even when washing is easy. The permissibility of Masah is based on genuine hardship or travel. Taking advantage of this concession for mere convenience is not in accordance with the spirit of Islamic rulings. FAQs: Is It Better To Wipe Over Socks Or Wash Feet During Wudu? How long can I wipe over my socks? Most schools of Islamic jurisprudence agree on a duration of 24 hours for residents and 72 hours for travelers. The period for wiping begins after the first instance of Masah after a state of purity (i.e., after performing Wudu). Can I wipe over shoes instead of socks? Wiping over shoes is generally not permitted in Islamic law. The concession of Masah historically applies to thick leather socks (khuff), allowing travelers to maintain purification without frequent removal of their footwear. What if my socks get wet or develop a hole? If the socks become significantly wet or if a hole appears that exposes the skin, the permissibility for Masah ends. The feet must be washed fully during the next Wudu. Conclusion The concession of wiping over socks during Wudu is a testament to the practicality and flexibility of Islamic law. It demonstrates Islam's accommodation of hardships and its emphasis on ease for its followers. However, it is crucial to understand that washing the feet remains the preferred method of purification and Masah is a concession for specific circumstances, with conditions and limitations. References Al-Mudawwanah al-Kubra- Imam Malik Al-Umm- Imam Shafi'i Sahih al-Bukhari Sahih Muslim