khuffayn

Khuffayn are soft leather slippers or socks worn by Muslims, particularly during prayer (salat). They are traditionally made from animal hide, such as sheep or camel skin, and are designed to be comfortable and easy to put on and take off. The practice of wearing khuffayn is rooted in Islamic tradition and has specific rulings regarding their use, especially concerning ritual purity.

A key aspect of khuffayn is the concept of masah, or wiping. Under certain Islamic legal interpretations, a person who has performed ablution (wudu) and is wearing khuffayn may wipe over them with wet hands instead of washing their feet during subsequent ablutions. This provision is particularly relevant for travelers or individuals in situations where washing feet might be impractical or difficult. The duration for which masah is permitted varies according to different scholarly opinions and circumstances.

The wearing of khuffayn is not mandatory but is considered a permissible practice for Muslims. There are specific conditions that must be met for the validity of masah, such as the khuffayn being clean and covering the entire foot, including the ankles. The tradition of khuffayn highlights the flexibility within Islamic jurisprudence to accommodate the needs and circumstances of believers.