This is therefore the weightier view, the one in which all the proofs converge. The ḥadith of Ṣafwān ibn ʿAssāl relates: “The Messenger of Allah ﷺ used to instruct us, when we were travelling, not to remove our leather socks for three days and nights except because of major ritual impurity, but not for defecation, urination, or sleep.” (Narrated by al-Tirmidhi 3352 and al-Nasāʾi 127). This narration places sleep alongside defecation and urination as matters that nullify ablution.

Conversely, the ḥadith of Anas states: “During the Prophet’s lifetime the Companions would wait for the ʿIshāʾ prayer until their heads nodded in drowsiness; then they would rise and perform the prayer without renewing their ablution.” This indicates that a brief, light sleep does not invalidate it.