Ritual Purification in Maliki Fiqh: An Overview of Ghusl and Tayammum
Ritual purification is a fundamental aspect of Islamic practice, and it is deeply embedded in the daily lives of Muslims. This article provides an overview of the rules and manners of ghusl (ritual bath) and tayammum (dry ablution) in Maliki fiqh, based on the teachings of Sheikh Hamza Yusuf.
Ghusl: The Ritual Bath
Ghusl is a full-body wash that is required in certain situations to attain ritual purity. These situations include after sexual intercourse, ejaculation, menstruation, postnatal bleeding, and death. It is also recommended to perform ghusl on Fridays, Eid days, during Hajj and Umrah, and when visiting righteous people.
The obligations of ghusl include the intention, continuity, rubbing the entire body with water, penetrating the hair, and reaching the hidden places. If any part of the body is left dry, the ghusl is considered invalid. There are also recommendations for ghusl, such as washing off impurities, saying bismillah, washing the head three times, starting with the right side, conserving water, and avoiding touching the genitals. Ghusl should follow the order of wudu, except for the feet.
Ghusl is not only a physical act but also a spiritual one. It is a way of restoring presence with Allah after a state of forgetfulness, honoring the Quran and the sacred places, and appreciating the blessings of water and cleanliness.
Tayammum: The Dry Ablution
Tayammum is a form of ritual purification using pure earth in place of water when water is unavailable, harmful, or insufficient. It involves patting the earth with the hands, wiping the face and the arms up to the elbows. Tayammum should be done with the intention of rendering worship permissible and followed by the prayer immediately.
The things that nullify or invalidate tayammum include the availability of purifying water before one prays, the occurrence of anything that nullifies wudu, such as passing wind, urination, defecation, etc., and a significant lapse of time after performing tayammum with no devotional action done.
Prohibitions for Those in a State of Ritual Impurity
Certain actions are prohibited for those who are in a state of major or minor ritual impurity. These include intercourse during menstruation or postpartum bleeding, recitation of the Quran, except for some verses for protection, entering a mosque, touching the mushaf, circumambulating the Kaaba, or making du’a.
In conclusion, ghusl and tayammum are essential practices in Islam that help Muslims maintain their ritual purity and deepen their connection with Allah. They are not merely physical acts, but also spiritual ones that carry profound meanings and wisdom.