Define Ghuslu Dukhulu l-Islam and explain how it is performed.

Answer Details

Ghuslu Dukhulu l-Islam (the bath on entering Islam)

Definition: Ghuslu Dukhuli l-Islam is the ritual complete bath (Ghusl) taken by a person who newly embraces Islam. When a non-Muslim accepts the faith, he is required (according to many scholars) to purify himself with a full bath as a symbol of his cleansing from his former state of disbelief and his fresh entry into the purity of Islam. The Prophet (S.A.W.) instructed some new converts, such as Thumamah b. Uthal and Qays b. 'Asim, to perform this bath.

How it is performed: It is carried out in the same manner as any complete ritual bath:

1. Intention (Niyyah): He forms the intention in his heart to purify himself for entering Islam.
2. Say Bismillah and wash both hands up to the wrists.
3. Wash the private parts and remove any impurity from the body.
4. Perform a complete ablution (Wudu') as for prayer.
5. Pour water over the head three times, ensuring it reaches the roots of the hair.
6. Wash the whole body, beginning with the right side then the left, making sure water reaches every part of the skin so that no spot remains dry.

Some scholars regard this bath as recommended (mustahabb) and others as obligatory (wajib); either way it marks a clean, dignified beginning of the new Muslim's life.