Exaggeration in Ablution.

Question:
Some people exaggerate in their ablution. What is the Prophetic guidance regarding his ablution (peace and blessings be upon him)?

Answer:
Answer: The Prophetic guidance is moderation in the water used for ablution and for the full ritual bath from major ritual impurity. He (peace and blessings be upon him) would perform ablution with a mudd, which is a quarter of a sa', and he would take a full ritual bath with a sa' (peace and blessings be upon him). This is the predominant aspect of his guidance (peace and blessings be upon him). Therefore, the Muslim should be moderate with water in ablution or in taking a full ritual bath, and not exaggerate. The Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him) said to one of his Companions: "Beware of exaggeration in ablution." The man, or the Companion (may Allah be pleased with him), said: "Is there exaggeration in ablution, O Messenger of Allah?" He said: "Yes, even if you were on a flowing river."