Final answer:
Ablution (wudu) and ghusl are the two types of purification used before prayer. Ablution is a partial purification performed before each prayer, while ghusl is a complete purification performed in specific situations.
Step-by-step explanation:
In the context of religious purification, there are two primary types of purification used before prayer: ablution (also known as wudu) and ghusl.
Ablution (wudu) is a ritual purification that Muslims perform before each prayer. It involves washing specific parts of the body, such as the hands, face, and feet, with clean water. Ablution is a form of minor purification and is required for the five daily prayers.
Ghusl is a more comprehensive ritual purification performed in specific situations, such as after sexual intercourse, menstruation, childbirth, or death. Ghusl involves washing the entire body from head to toe with clean water, ensuring that the water reaches every part of the body. It is considered a major purification and is necessary to regain a state of ritual purity.
The main difference between ablution and ghusl is the extent of the purification process, with ablution being a partial purification and ghusl being a complete purification.