Shaykh Ibn 'Uthaymeen explains that for ghusl (the ritual bath) to be valid, there are essential components that must be performed. These are known as the fara'id (obligations) or arkan (pillars) of ghusl.

The minimal, obligatory ghusl consists of two main parts:

1. Intention (Niyyah): One must have the intention in their heart to perform ghusl to remove a state of major ritual impurity (e.g., janabah, post-menstruation, or post-natal bleeding). This intention distinguishes the ritual bath from merely bathing for cleanliness or to cool down. The intention is an action of the heart and is not uttered on the tongue.

2. Washing the Entire Body: Water must reach every part of the body, including the skin under the hair of the head, beard, and mustache. It is obligatory to ensure no spot is left dry. This is based on the general command of Allah in the Qur'an.

Shaykh Ibn 'Uthaymeen, supporting the Hanbali madhhab's position on this, holds that rinsing the mouth (al-madmadah) and sniffing water into the nose (al-istinshaq) are obligatory parts of ghusl. This is because the inside of the mouth and nose are considered part of the external body that must be purified, and they fall under the general command to purify oneself.

Therefore, a person can fulfill the obligation by intending ghusl and then ensuring water covers their entire body, including the mouth and nose, in any manner, such as standing under a shower. Anything beyond this, like performing wudu' beforehand or washing the right side first, is considered part of the complete and recommended (kamil) form of ghusl as practiced by the Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him), but is not strictly obligatory for the ghusl's validity.