Ruling on water reaching the skin of the beard

Question:
The listener (M. A. A.) from Sharurah sent a message containing three questions. In his first question, he asks: Is it obligatory for water to reach the skin of the beard, or is it sufficient for water to pass over the hair?
May Allah reward you with good.

Answer:
If the beard is thick, it is sufficient for water to pass over it. However, parting it is better. Parting it and rubbing it is better. Otherwise, the Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him) would pass water over it, and sometimes he would part it—(peace and blessings be upon him).
As for if it is small and does not cover the skin, he should rub it until water reaches the skin. If it is small and does not cover the skin, he should wash the skin along with the hair; because in that case, its presence is like its absence, as it is scanty.
As for the thick beard that covers the skin due to its thickness, it is sufficient for water to pass over all of it. If he runs water over it, that is sufficient, and parting it is better.

The presenter: May Allah reward you with good.