The boundaries of the head extend lengthwise from the curve of the forehead to the hairline at the back, and widthwise from ear to ear. Accordingly, the area of skin between the head and the ears is part of the head.

The scholars differed over whether washing one’s head without wiping it suffices or not, holding three views (1):

The first view is that it does suffice, because Allah waived washing the head only as a concession, since the hair retains water and causes it to run downward. Had people been required to wash it, that would have entailed hardship, particularly during the days of winter and cold. Thus, if someone washes it, he has chosen for himself the more onerous course, and it suffices.

The second view is that it suffices, though it is disliked, on condition that he passes his hand over his head; otherwise, it does not suffice. This is the established position of the school, because when he passes his hand over it, wiping has taken place along with the additional water involved in washing.

The third view is that it does not suffice, because it is contrary to the command of Allah and His Messenger. Allah the Exalted says: “And wipe your heads” [al-Ma'idah 5:6]. Since this is so, the Prophet ﷺ said, in the hadith of Aishah: “Whoever performs an act that is not in accordance with our affair, it is rejected” (2).

There is no doubt that wiping is better than washing. As for washing being unconditionally sufficient in place of wiping, this is open to question; but when one passes the hand over the head, the matter is less problematic.