What are all Islamic evidences relating to wudu?

In a Nutshell: Wudu, the Islamic ritual washing, is mandatory for performing formal prayers (Salah) and other acts of worship. This answer explores the Quranic verses, Hadiths of the Prophet (PBUH) and scholarly opinions that establish wudu as a foundational practice for maintaining ritual purity. Introduction: The Significance of Wudu Muslims perform wudu, or ablution, as a ritual washing before engaging in specific acts of worship. This practice signifies both physical cleanliness and spiritual purification. The concept of purity holds a central place in Islam, as reflected in various Quranic verses and the teachings of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH). Wudu serves as a symbolic act that prepares an individual for a state of focused devotion during prayer and other religious acts. It emphasizes the importance of both outward cleanliness and inner mindfulness in connecting with God (Allah SWT). Evidences for Wudu: Quranic Verses Several Quranic verses allude to the importance of cleanliness and preparation for worship. While not explicitly mentioning wudu, these verses are interpreted by Islamic scholars to establish its necessity. Surah Al-Ma'idah (5:6):... But if you are in a state of janabah (impurity from sexual intercourse), then purify yourselves (wash yourselves)... (5:6). This verse emphasizes the need for purification before specific acts of worship, which scholars interpret to include wudu for prayers. Surah Al-Muzzammil (73:1-4):O you who are enfolded (in sleep), Arise and pray throughout the night, except for a half of it, Or a little less than that, Or a little more than that, And recite the Qur'an with measured recitation. (73:1-4). Though not explicitly mentioning wudu, these verses are understood by scholars to imply the requirement of performing wudu before night prayers. Hadiths: Numerous Hadiths provide clear instructions and establish the obligation of wudu. Hadith narrated by Sahl ibn Abi Waqas:This well-known Hadith describes Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) being visited by Angel Gabriel (AS), who demonstrates the proper steps of performing wudu [Sahih al-Bukhari]. Hadith narrated by Abu Hurairah (RA):The Prophet (PBUH) said, The key to prayer is wudu. [Sahih al-Muslim] These Hadiths, along with others, leave no doubt about the mandatory nature of wudu for formal prayers and the importance Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) placed on this practice. Scholarly Opinions from the Four Madhhabs: There is a strong scholarly consensus among all four major Sunni schools of jurisprudence (Hanafi, Maliki, Shafi'i and Hanbali) regarding the obligation of wudu before prayers. While minor differences may exist in specific details of performing wudu, the core principles and necessity of the practice are universally accepted. Conclusion Wudu embodies a core Islamic ritual with deep symbolic and spiritual significance. It is a practical example of how Islam seamlessly blends physical cleanliness with spiritual mindfulness, preparing the believer to stand before God in a state of purity and devotion.