When to Perform Tayammum

What is Tayammum?

The word Tayammum is an Arabic word that means “aiming.” Tayammum in Islam aims to purify one’s hands and face with soil to prepare for prayers. This might raise several questions for those who are entirely unaware of the teachings of the Qur’an and Sunnah regarding Tayammum.

In Surah, An Nisa 4:43 Qur’an says:

…And if you are ill or on a journey or one of you comes from the place of relieving himself or you have contacted women [i.e., had sexual intercourse] and find no water, then look for clean earth and wipe over your faces and your hands [with it]. Indeed, Allah is most Merciful and Forgiving.”

The leniency of Allah almighty through such verses makes it clear that religion is not a tool for oppression and limitation. The teachings regarding Tayammum are not only given in the Qur’an but our Prophet (ﷺ) showed Tayammum with his actions and advised other Muslims to do Tayammum given certain situations.

“Perform Tayammum with clean earth and that will be sufficient for you.”

(Sahih Bukhari: 348)

 

1. When Water is Unavailable

• No Access to Water: If no water is available within a reasonable distance or effort, Tayammum can be performed to maintain ritual purity.
• Limited Water Supply: If the available water is insufficient for Wudu or Ghusl and is needed for drinking, cooking, or other essential purposes, Tayammum is permissible.

2. When Water Usage is Harmful

• Illness or Injury: If using water would worsen an illness or injury, or delay healing, Tayammum can be performed as an alternative.
• Cold Weather: If the weather is extremely cold and using water might cause harm or illness, Tayammum is allowed.

3. When Water is Contaminated or Unclean

• Contaminated Water: If the available water is contaminated or impure (Najis), and there is no access to clean water, Tayammum is permissible.

4. When Time for Prayer is Short

• Short on Time: If the time for prayer (Salah) is about to end and searching for water would cause the prayer to be missed, Tayammum can be performed to ensure the prayer is offered on time.

5. When in Specific Circumstances or Locations

• In Deserts or Remote Areas: In areas where water is scarce, such as deserts or remote regions, Tayammum can be performed if water cannot be found.
• During Travel: Travelers who are unable to find water or who are in situations where stopping to use water is not possible may perform Tayammum.

How to Perform Tayammum

• Intention (Niyyah): Make the intention in your heart to perform Tayammum for the purpose of purification.
• Strike the Hands on Clean Earth: Strike both hands lightly on clean earth, dust, or a similar surface.
• Wipe the Face: Wipe your face with both hands.
• Wipe the Hands: Wipe your right hand with your left, and your left hand with your right, up to the wrists.