Is wiping the entire head obligatory during Wudu (ablution)?
Chapter on the Obligation of Purification
Al-Mughni
Book of Purification
Primary text
There is a narration from Ahmad stating the obligation of wiping the entire head for everyone, which aligns with the apparent view of Al-Kharqi and the Madhhab of Malik. However, another narration from Ahmad permits wiping only a part of the head, a view held by Al-Hasan, Al-Thawri, Al-Awza'i, Al-Shafi'i, and the people of *Ra'y* (opinion). The apparent position of Ahmad regarding men is the obligation of complete coverage, while for women, wiping the front part suffices. Evidence supporting partial wiping includes the narration from Mughirah ibn Shu'bah that the Prophet, peace be upon him, wiped over his forelock and turban, and that 'Uthman wiped only the front of his head once without using new water when describing the Prophet's ablution.
Supporting text
Some scholars assert that wiping only a part of the head is sufficient, using as proof the action of 'Uthman and the general linguistic application where someone who wipes part of the head is described as having wiped his head. Additionally, some suggest the preposition 'baa' (ب) in the command {And wipe over your heads} (Quran 5:6) signifies partiality.