Purification is a fundamental part of worship. Allah commands believers:
“When you rise to pray, wash your faces and your hands…”
(Surah Al-Ma’idah 5:6)
Islam also clarifies what breaks this state of purity.
1. Anything That Comes Out From the Private Parts
The Prophet ﷺ said:
“Allah does not accept prayer without purification.”
(Sahih Muslim)
This includes:
- Urine
- Stool
- Passing gas
- Any discharge from front or back
These are unanimously agreed upon.
2. Deep Sleep That Removes Awareness
Light drowsiness does not break wudu.
Evidence:
“The companions would wait for prayer, their heads dropping (from drowsiness), then they would stand and pray without renewing wudu.”
(Abu Dawood – Sahih)
Therefore:
Breaks Wudu:
- Deep sleep
- Sleep while lying down
- Sleep in any posture that removes control
Does NOT Break Wudu:
- Sitting with full control
- Light nap while sitting
3. Anything Coming Out Due to Illness
- Pus
- Blood
- Abnormal discharge
If it exits from the private parts, it breaks wudu.
4. Mani or Madhiy
The Prophet ﷺ said:
“Water (ghusl) is for water (ejaculation).”
(Sahih Muslim)
Thus:
- Ejaculation = Ghusl (wudu included)
- Pre-seminal fluid = Wudu required
5. Menstruation and Postnatal Bleeding
- Wudu does not remain valid
- Prayer is not required during this time
6. What DOES NOT Break Wudu
❌ Touching spouse
❌ Eating or drinking
❌ Bleeding from a wound
❌ Vomiting
❌ Cutting nails or hair
These have no authentic hadith stating they break wudu.
📌 References
- Qur’an: Surah Al-Ma’idah (5:6)
- Sahih Muslim: Purification hadith
- Sahih Muslim: Ghusl for ejaculation
- Abu Dawood: Sleep hadith
