and the one who wipes does so up to the junction of the foot and lower leg, it is clear that he is acting contrary to the Quran.

Fifth: The two readings are like two verses. Observing the prescribed sequence in ablution is either obligatory or strongly recommended. When a limb to be wiped separates two limbs to be washed, interrupting the grouping of like with like, this indicates the prescribed sequence in ablution.

Sixth: The Sunnah explains the Quran, indicates its meaning, and expresses what it conveys; and it prescribes washing.

Seventh: Dry ablution was instituted as a substitute for ablution when needed: half of the limbs involved in ablution were omitted, and purification of the other half was made easier. Thus, what was to be wiped was omitted, and what was to be washed was instead wiped.

As for the other reading—the reading in which “and your feet” is in the genitive—it does not contradict the mass-transmitted Sunnah. The two readings are like two verses, and the established Sunnah does not contradict the Book of Allah; rather, it agrees with it and confirms it. It explains and clarifies it for those whose understanding falls short of comprehending the Quran. For the Quran contains subtle indications that escape many people, as well as passages stated in summary form which the Sunnah explains and clarifies.