Q: Is Ghusl (ritual bath) enough to remove Janabah (major ritual impurity related to sexual discharge) or is Wudu’ (ablution) also necessary? Is it necessary to use soap in washing the body or not? What is the ruling if there is no soap available?

A: All praise be to Allah Alone, and peace and blessings be upon His Messenger, and his family and Companions. Using water to remove major ritual impurity is enough. The adequate Ghusl is to have the intention to remove ritual impurity, utter Tasmiyah (saying, "Bismillah [In the Name of Allah]"), and pour water over the entire body once. The perfect Ghusl is to have the intention, utter Tasmiyah, wash the hands, then the private parts and anywhere else that is contaminated with impurity and perform Wudu’ as if a person is going to pray. Then, pour water three times over the head, and pour water over the entire body moving the hands to wash the body. Wash the right side first then the left side. Finally, wash the feet in another place, following the example of the Prophet (peace be upon him). Using soap or other cleansing agents is not required, water alone is sufficient.May Allah grant us success. May peace and blessings be upon our Prophet Muhammad, his family, and Companions.