Is sequential order and immediate succession mandatory between rinsing the mouth/nose and the remaining limbs (other than the face) in Wudu (ablution)?
Chapter on the Obligation of Purification
Al-Mughni
Book of Purification
Primary text
There are two narrations concerning the obligation of sequence and immediate succession between rinsing the mouth/nose and the other limbs. The primary view holds that it is obligatory, which is the apparent stance of Al-Khiraqi, as they are parts of the face, requiring washing before the hands based on the Quranic verse and analogy with other parts. If this obligation is accepted, it means rinsing the mouth and nose must precede hand washing.
Supporting text
The alternative view states that sequence and immediate succession are not obligatory. If one neglects them and prays after rinsing the mouth and nose, the prayer is valid, and only the act of rinsing the mouth and nose needs to be repeated, not the entire ablution. This is supported by the narration of Al-Miqdam ibn Ma'di Karib, where the Prophet (peace be upon him) washed his hands, then face, then forearms, and subsequently rinsed his mouth and nose. This is because the obligation for rinsing the mouth and nose is not derived from the Quranic text that mandates sequence for the other specified limbs.