Performing masah on socks.
Question:
Is it permissible to perform masah on regular cotton socks or thick cotton socks? What is the sunnah method of performing masah on socks?
Answer:
The four Imams of Fiqh have unanimously declared that Masah is not permissible on cotton socks which does not fall within the description of the khufain (literally socks made of leather) as evident from the autentic tradition. They have also stated that if the cotton socks are thick and fulfills the following three conditions, then Masah would be permissible upon them. The three conditions are:
- The socks should be of such fabric that if water falls upon it, it would not reach the foot.
- Each of the socks must be able to remain firm on each foot without being fastened.
- The strength of the socks must withstand a long walk (without being torn).
The sunnah method of performing the Masah is that a person must draw the fingers of the right hand on the upper surface of the sock of the right foot beginning from the toes and ending at the upper arch of the instep (just above the ankle). The same will be done on the left foot using the left hand. Masah will be done only once on each socks.
And Allah knows best.
Mufti Waseem Khan