Wudu' instead of Ghusl in the state of Janabah: Is it allowed?

Q: Is it permissible for a person who has sexual intercourse with his wife during the night and gets up late, to perform Wudu' (ablution) and perform Salah (prayer) instead of taking a Ghusl (ritual bath)? In fact, this may well take place because he wants to be on time or wait till the cold hours pass. Or, is it absolutely prohibited to offer Salah while in a state of Janabah (major ritual impurity related to sexual discharge)?


A: Such a person has to take a Ghusl in order to be purified from the state of Janabah and, consequently, to perform Salah. In such a case, performing Wudu' is not sufficient. Moreover, Tayammum (dry ablution) is not sufficient for him as long as there is the ability to use water even if he has to buy it. For such a person, the time he gets up is the prescribed time of Salah. In this regard, the Prophet (peace be upon him) said: He who falls asleep and fails to perform a Salah (prayer) or (Part No. 6; Page No. 157) forgets to perform a Salah (during its prescribed time), its expiation is only that he should observe it when he remembers it. (Recorded by both Al-Bukhari and Muslim.) May Allah grant us success. May peace and blessings be upon our Prophet Muhammad, his family, and Companions.


Tags: