What is the proper way to perform the ghusl from janabah?
Question
I am in doubt about my state due to washing from janabah. Some have told me: Pour water over the head three times, then the right half of the body, then the left half three times, then perform wudu; this is sufficient.
Answer Summary
Ghusl from janabah involves two intentions: the first is to intend to remove impurity and the second to pour water over the entire body. It is preferred to wash the head three times and then the rest of the body, ensuring to wash hands before entering the water. A woman does not need to remove her braid if the water reaches the hair. And Allah knows best.
Praise be to Allah and peace be upon the Messenger of Allah and his family and companions. As for what follows: Washing from janabah has two descriptions: 1. The obligatory description, which includes two components: intention (to wash away impurity) and pouring water over the entire body. 2. The complete washing, which combines the obligatory and recommended aspects. The complete washing entails: washing hands before inserting them into the water, pouring three handfuls of water over the head until thoroughly drenched, pouring water on the right side of the body, then the left side. This is the best way, supported by hadiths from Ibn Abbas narrating from his aunt Maimunah رضي الله عنهما who reported that the Prophet صلى الله عليه وسلم stated: ‘I was permitted to wash from janabah; the manner being two or three times, then inserting the hand into the container, pouring over the private part, washing with the left hand, followed by the right hand touching the ground and moving off.' Also, the woman should not need to draw back her veil if water reaches the hair base, as both can perform purification from janabah in these ways. And Allah knows best.