Explication:

This verse with its various readings is the subject of nuanced discussion between jurists based on their respective principles and shared evidences. It is commonly assumed that the first reading denotes washing the feet (fully in water), and the second denotes wiping over their tops with a little water. Sunni scholars, who stipulate washing, advance several explanations in which the second reading (arjulikum) is consistent with this, e.g. that the word masḥ can mean the same as ghasl (i.e. washing). They may also accept that the verse stipulates wiping, but that washing is firmly established by additional Prophetic guidance [al-Mahdawi]. Those who take the contrary view interpret the first reading (arjulakum) in a way consistent with wiping.