the like of which have not been reported concerning the face and hands. Yet the Sunnah, together with the indication of the Quran, establishes wiping the feet. Whoever wipes over his feet is an innovator who contravenes the Sunnah transmitted through numerous independent chains and the Quran. No one may do so when washing is possible. When the foot is uncovered, it must be washed; when it is inside a leather sock, its ruling is as explained by the Sunnah.

This is comparable to the verse on prescribed shares of inheritance: the Sunnah explains the status of an heir who is a slave, an unbeliever, or a killer. There are numerous similar examples. And Allah, glorified is He, knows best.