Dua Before and After Wudu: (Text, Pictures & MP3)

Wudu (Ablution) is the key to prayer (Salah) and an act of spiritual purification. The Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) said: “Cleanliness is half of faith.” (Sahih Muslim). Performing Wudu with its proper etiquettes and supplications not only cleanses the body but also washes away minor sins with every drop of water.

Here are the 2 essential authentic Duas to recite before and after making Wudu.

Dua Before Wudu: Supplication to Start Ablution

Importance: The Prophet (PBUH) stated that there is no [valid or perfect] Wudu for the one who does not mention the Name of Allah upon it. Starting with Bismillah brings blessings to the entire act of purification.

بِسْمِ اللّٰهِ

Transliteration: Bismillah.

English Translation: “In the Name of Allah.” (Sunan Abu Dawud: 101 & Ibn Majah)

Note: You may also say “Bismillahir-Rahmanir-Rahim”, but saying “Bismillah” is sufficient and firmly established in the Hadith.

Dua After Wudu: Shahada & Supplication

Importance: This is a tremendous Dua with a huge reward. The Prophet (PBUH) promised that whoever performs Wudu perfectly and then recites this supplication, the eight gates of Paradise will be opened for them, and they may enter through whichever one they wish.

أَشْهَدُ أَنْ لَا إِلَهَ إِلَّا اللَّهُ وَحْدَهُ لَا شَرِيكَ لَهُ، وَأَشْهَدُ أَنَّ مُحَمَّدًا عَبْدُهُ وَرَسُولُهُ. اللَّهُمَّ اجْعَلْنِي مِنَ التَّوَّابِينَ وَاجْعَلْنِي مِنَ الْمُتَطَهِّرِينَ

Transliteration: Ash-hadu an la ilaha illallahu wahdahu la sharika lahu, wa ash-hadu anna Muhammadan ‘abduhu wa rasuluhu. Allahummaj’alni minat-tawwabina waj’alni minal-mutatahhirin.

English Translation: “I bear witness that none has the right to be worshiped but Allah alone, Who has no partner; and I bear witness that Muhammad is His slave and His Messenger. O Allah, make me among those who turn to You in repentance, and make me among those who are purified.” (Sahih Muslim: 234 & Sunan At-Tirmidhi: 55)