Purity of the Body Just as the soul must be pure...

Purity of the Body Just as the soul must be pure, concentrated, and calm before prayers, the body must also be free from impurities. Certain items are considered ritually impure and must be avoided, removed, or purified before the prayers. A specified washing (wudhu) must also be done before the prayers: O you who believe, when you intend to offer prayers, wash your faces and your hands from the elbows to the fingertips.

Rub [with wet hands] your heads and your feet up to the ankles, and if you are in a state of sexual impurity (janaba), purify yourself [by bathing your entire body]. (5:6) If water is unavailable, dust may be used out of necessity: But if you are ill or on a…