Masah

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Masah (Arabic مسح) refers to the act of ritually cleaning the head or feet with a small amount of water, running the wet hands over the head or feet before prayer (salat) in the Islamic faith. The term pre-dates Islam and shares the same root as the word Maseeh (Messiah) which is used for one who is anointed, in religious terms by God.

Contents 1 Masah of the head 2 Masah of the feet 2.1 Conditions of masah 2.2 Type of socks where masah is allowed 3 See also

[edit] Masah of the head

On the head; Wet hands should be passed all over the head; then the first finger of the right and left hand should be moved in the right and left ears respectively and in the same operation thumbs should be passed around the ears; then pass the backs of the hands over the hind part of the neck only. Hands should not be passed around the fore-neck as it is prohibited. One may NOT make masah over a Muslim head cap. Fresh water need not be taken for performing the masah of the ears.

[edit] Masah of the feet

On the feet, masah can be done over leather socks known as khuffs. The meaning of "KHUFF" in Arabic applies only to socks made out of leather. Socks made from cloth are not called "KHUFF" in Arabic. This is done when one has put on the socks shortly after previous ritual cleaning (called wudu or Ghusl), without having broken the conditions for that wudu or ghusl, and time comes for the next prayer. It is then acceptable to wipe the covering of the feet in place of re-washing the feet. It is not permissible to do masah if the leather socks have significant holes. Additionally it is only permissible for a 24 hour period if at home, and 3 days if travelling.

[edit] Conditions of masah

1. The socks must be strong enough to enable walking in them on roads for approximately three miles without the socks tearing.
2. The socks should remain in position (covering the foreleg) without being tied. They should not slip. Socks which have elastic sewn into them (to keep them in position) will be regarded as being tied.
3. Water must not be able to seep through.

[edit] Type of socks where masah is allowed

1. KHUFFAIN, (Leather socks), it is permissible to make masah over them.
2. Thin socks, not made of leather, nor having the qualities of leather, but are like the regular socks made from cotton, wool, or nylon. It is not permissible to make masah on such socks as it is not established with enough evidence that would enable one to take leave from the order of washing the feet as mentioned in the Qur'an.
3. Thick socks, not made from leather, but have the qualities of leather. According to some Jurists, it is permissible to make masah over such socks, while others say it is not permissible.

[edit] See also

Khilaal

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