Question:
At the beginning of this episode, we return to the message from our listener, Brother Sa‘id bin ‘Abdul-Hamid Ahmad. We previously addressed some of his questions in a past episode, and in this episode, he has one question in which he asks: What is the ruling on saying the name of Allah (tasmiyah, Bismillah) before performing ablution (wudu), and if a person does not say it, what is the ruling on his ablution? May Allah reward you with goodness.
Answer by Shaikh Abdul Azeez bin Abdullah bin Baaz (Rahimahullah):
In the name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful. All praise is due to Allah, and may peace and blessings be upon the Messenger of Allah, his family, his companions, and those who follow his guidance. To proceed:
The act of saying the name of Allah (tasmiyah, Bismillah) at the beginning of ablution is considered a recommended practice (Sunnah) according to the majority of scholars. However, some scholars have held the view that it is obligatory if one remembers to do so. Therefore, it is advisable for a believer not to neglect it. If one forgets or is unaware of this ruling, there is no sin upon them, and their ablution remains valid. However, if one intentionally omits it while being aware of the Islamic ruling, it is recommended for them to repeat the ablution as a precaution and to avoid differing opinions, as it is reported from the Prophet ﷺ that he said, “There is no ablution for one who does not mention the name of Allah over it.” (Sunan Abi Dawud 101)
This hadith has been narrated through various chains, and a group of scholars have ruled that it is not firmly established and is weak. However, Al-Hafiz Ibn Kathir, (may Allah have mercy on him), considered it to be good (hasan) due to the numerous chains of transmission, making it acceptable due to supporting evidence. Therefore, it is advisable for a believer to strive to mention the name of Allah at the beginning of ablution, and the same applies to a believing woman. If one forgets or is unaware, there is no harm. Yes.
Presenter: May Allah reward you with goodness and bless you abundantly.
From the radio program ‘Noor Ala Ad-Darb’.
(Translated by Mohammed bin Thajammul Hussain Manna.)
Saheehus-Seerah 