and to give it precedence in acts of devotion, for the right is meant for what is noble, while the left is reserved for what is base.

Accordingly, it is recommended to begin with the right when performing wudu (minor ablution), ghusl (ritual bath), tayammum (dry ablution), putting on a garment, shoes, trousers, or leather socks, entering the mosque or one’s house, applying kohl, clipping the nails, trimming the moustache, shaving the head, plucking the armpit hair, pronouncing the closing salām in the prayer, eating, drinking, shaking hands, handing something to another, touching the Black Stone, the Yemeni Corner, and everything of a similar nature.

As for matters that are impure—such as stepping into the lavatory or the bathhouse with the left foot first, blowing the nose, cleansing oneself after relieving nature, and the like—it is recommended that they be done with the left.

The basis for all of this is the statement of ʿĀʾishah (may Allah be pleased with her): “The right hand of the Messenger of Allah, peace and blessings be upon him, was for his purification and his food, and the left for everything else and for anything involving impurity.” Reported by Abū Dāwūd (33) and others with a sound chain.