Q: Is it permissible to wipe over socks?

A: All praise be to Allah Alone, and peace and blessings be upon His Messenger, and his family and Companions. Fuqaha’ (Muslim jurists) have held different views on the issue of wiping over socks in Wudu’ (ablution); some prohibit it while others permit it. However, the correct opinion is that it is permissible to wipe over socks if they are worn after Taharah (ritual purification) and cover the foot and heel for a day and a night for a non-traveler and three days for a traveler. Other conditions of wiping that are reported in sound Hadiths should also be fulfilled. Al-Mughirah ibn Shu‘bah (may Allah be pleased with him) is authentically reported to have said: “The Messenger of Allah (peace be upon him) performed ablution and wiped over his socks and shoes.” (Related by Ahmad, Abu Dawud, Al-Tirmidhy and Ibn Majah. Al-Tirmidhy said: "It is a Hasan (good) Sahih (authentic) Hadith"). Many Companions adhered to this act. Abu Dawud said: `Aly ibn Abu Talib, ‘Abdullah ibn Mas‘ud, Al-Bara’ ibn ‘Azib, Anas ibn Malik, Abu Umamah, Sahl ibn Sa‘d, and `Amr ibn Hurayth wiped over their socks. This act was also reported on the authority of `Umar ibn Al-Khattab and Ibn ‘Abbas (may Allah be pleased with them). It is the view of a group of scholars.May Allah grant us success. May peace and blessings be upon our Prophet Muhammad, his family, and Companions.