Wiping Ears during Wudu

Question: 

What is the ruling of wiping the ears during wudu’ (ablution)? Is it obligatory or just a Sunnah act? 

Answer:

In the name of Allah, We praise Him, seek His help and ask for His forgiveness. Whoever Allah guides none can misguide, and whoever He allows to fall astray, none can guide them aright.

The vast majority of scholars are of the view that wiping the ears is not mandatory. Rather it is recommended (an act of sunnah) during performing wudu. The majority of scholars have stated that wiping is not obligatory and that the ablution of one who does not wipe them is valid. However, the Hanbali scholars see that wiping ears is obligatory as it is part of the head. Their proof is the hadith in which the Messenger of Allah (peace be upon him) said: “The ears are part of the head.” He used to wipe his head once, and he used to wipe over the inner corners of the eyes (that are close to the nose). (Ibn Majah) 

It was also narrated from Imam Ahmad (may Allah have mercy on him) is that if a person opts not to wipe his ears, his ablution is still valid. It is better to wipe it with new water, but wiping it using the same water used for one’s head or face also is allowable.

For more information about the ruling of wiping the ears during ablution, watch this interesting talk with Dr. Muhammad Salah. 

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Source: Huda Youtube Channel.