Describe the conditions under which a Muslim performs ritual bath (ghusl).

Answer Details

Ghusl is the ritual bath by which a Muslim removes the state of major impurity (janabah) and restores the purity required for worship. It becomes obligatory in the following conditions:

1. After sexual intercourse, whether or not ejaculation takes place, once the two parties meet.
2. After the emission of semen through wet dream or otherwise, when sexual fluid is discharged with desire.
3. After the ending of menstruation (haid) for a woman, before she may resume prayer and fasting.
4. After the ending of post-natal bleeding (nifas) following childbirth.
5. Upon embracing Islam, a new convert is required to purify himself by ghusl.
6. For a dead Muslim, the corpse must be washed (except the martyr slain in battle) before burial.

Ghusl is also strongly recommended (Sunnah) before the Friday (Jumu'ah) prayer, before the two 'Id prayers, and before entering the state of ihram for Hajj or 'Umrah.

Manner of performing ghusl:

1. Form the intention (niyyah) to purify oneself from major impurity.
2. Say Bismillah and wash both hands.
3. Wash the private parts and remove any impurity from the body.
4. Perform ablution (wudu) as one would for prayer.
5. Pour water over the head three times, ensuring it reaches the roots of the hair.
6. Pour water over the whole body, beginning with the right side and then the left, rubbing so that no part of the skin remains dry.

Conclusion: Ghusl restores the bodily and spiritual cleanliness that Islam requires for acts of worship such as prayer, touching or reciting the Qur'an, and entering the mosque, and it reflects the emphasis Islam places on purity: "Truly, Allah loves those who turn to Him in repentance and loves those who purify themselves" (Q2:222).