How to Wipe Water Over The Socks During Ablution

Wiping of water over the socks during ablution is sunnah of the prophet (peace be upon him). It was reported in the Hadith that he does this act. This act might seem new to some people but the truth is he (Muhammad) performs it.

We first talk about those who are qualified to wipe water over the socks during salah.

1. If someone’s wudhu gets nullified, then it is allowed to wipe over the socks with wet hands, instead of washing both feet when renewing one’s wudhu, on condition that the socks were put on after washing the feet in the first wudhu and before the same was nullified.

2. A traveler may avail himself of this privilege continuously for three consecutive days and nights (72 hours), but a resident may do so for only one day and one night continuously (24 hours). The period begins with the first wiping and not when one makes wudhu initially.

HOW WIPING OVER THE SOCKS IS DONE

Wiping is done according to the traditions of the Prophet (Peace be upon him) as follows:

After removing the shoes, wet hands are passed only over the upper surface of the socks without the need to wipe the bottom part (sole).

WHEN THE WIPING PRIVILEGE CEASES OR IS FORFEITED

The wiping privilege becomes useless in the event that one or more of the following occurs.

1. When the maximum timing allowed as discussed above end.

2. The moment the socks are removed.

3. When any of the cases requiring Ghusl (a complete bath) occur.