Hadith on the Number of Stones for Istinja
Narrated by Abdullah ibn Mas‘ud (رضي الله عنه):"The Prophet (ﷺ) went to relieve himself and ordered me to bring him three stones. I found two stones but could not find a third, so I picked up a piece of dung. The Prophet (ﷺ) took the two stones and threw away the dung, saying: ‘This is impure filth.’"
[Sahih Bukhari: 156]
Narrated by Abu Huraira (رضي الله عنه):
"The Prophet (ﷺ) forbade using dung or bones for istinja, saying: ‘They do not purify.’"
[Sunan Ad-Daraqutni: 1/56]
✔ Hadith Classification: Authentic (Sahih) as per Ad-Daraqutni.
Key Points Derived from the Hadith
✔ Istinja should be performed using at least three stones or more.✔ Using dung, bones, or excrement for istinja is prohibited because they are considered impure and serve as food for jinn. Similarly, items like grass, animal fodder, vegetable leaves, or grains should not be used for purification, as they are meant for human or animal consumption.
✔ Temporary alternatives like cloth may be used to wipe impurities, but washing afterward is necessary. Using water alone or a combination of stones and water is the most praiseworthy method.
✔ If three stones are not available, two may suffice in extreme necessity, or even one if it effectively removes impurity. However, dragging oneself on the ground to clean oneself, instead of using proper means, is harmful and unhygienic.
✔ It is permissible for younger individuals or companions to assist elders by providing water, stones, or other essentials for purification. Similarly, carrying items like a walking stick, cap, or shoes for an elder is allowed.
✔ Teaching children good hygiene and manners is essential in an Islamic environment. They should be trained to respect elders and observe cleanliness. If a child makes a mistake, they should not be harshly reprimanded but corrected gently, as the Prophet (ﷺ) did when he instructed instead of scolding when a child mistakenly brought dung for istinja.
Hadith on Using Water for Istinja
Narrated by Anas ibn Malik (رضي الله عنه):"When the Messenger of Allah (ﷺ) would enter the restroom, I and a young boy like me would carry a water container and a small spear for him. He would purify himself with water."
[Muttafaqun ‘Alayh - Agreed Upon]
Verification and Referencing:
✔ Sources: Sahih Bukhari (150, 151, 152, 500), Sahih Muslim (271)
[This content is taken from the book Diya' Al-Islam Fi Sharh Al-Imam Bi Ahadith Al-Ahkam by Sheikh Taqi Al-Din Abu Al-Fath, translated by Maulana Mahmood Ahmad Ghaznfar.]