Al-Rawd al-Murbi’: A Detailed Commentary on Zad al-Mustaqni

Al-Rawd al-Murbi’: A Detailed Commentary on Zad al-Mustaqni

by Imam Mansur ibn Yunus al-Buhuti (d. 1051 AH)

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Part 1

Introduction and Objectives of the Lecture

  • Purpose and format of the study sessions.
  • Explanation of the chosen text, Zad Al-Mustaqni’ [زاد المستقنع] and its commentary Al-Rawd Al-Murbi’ [الروض المربع].

Significance of Fiqh in the Hanbali Madhhab

  • Brief history of Imam Ahmad ibn Hanbal (رحمه الله) and his methodology.
  • Unique features of the Hanbali Madhhab: multiple riwayat [روايات] (narrations) and the concept of mu’tamad [المعتمد] (established opinions).
  • Explanation of the compilation process and the contributions of later scholars.

Overview of Key Texts

  • The relationship between Zad Al-Mustaqni’ [زاد المستقنع] and Al-Rawd Al-Murbi’ [الروض المربع].
  • Discussion of other key works in the Hanbali Madhhab, including the contributions of Imam Al-Buhuti [البهوتي] and Imam Al-Hijjawi [الحجاوي].
  • Explanation of madna [متن] (concise text) and sharh [شرح] (explanation) as terms and their practical application in Islamic scholarship.

Methodology and Structure of the Book

  • Features of Al-Rawd Al-Murbi’ [الروض المربع] as a sharh masji [شرح مزجي] (blended explanation).
  • Format of study: reading and explanation, word-by-word analysis, and emphasis on memorization of madna [متن].

Etiquette of Seeking Knowledge

  • Importance of sincerity (ikhlas [إخلاص]) and intention in seeking knowledge.
  • Studying fiqh as an act of worship (ibadah [عبادة]).
  • Seeking blessings (barakah [بركة]) through engagement with scholarly texts.

Introduction to the Author and Text

  • Biography of Imam Al-Buhuti [منصور البهوتي]: life, works, and impact.
  • Brief overview of the foundational text Mukhtasar Al-Muqni’ [مختصر المقنع].
  • Significance of referencing earlier works and building upon them.

Structure and Features of the Study

  • Explanation of the introduction (muqaddimah [مقدمة]) of Zad Al-Mustaqni’ [زاد المستقنع].
  • Importance of beginning with Bismillah [بِسْمِ اللَّهِ الرَّحْمَٰنِ الرَّحِيمِ] and Alhamdulillah [الحمد لله].
  • Differences between Hamd [حمد] (praise) and Shukr [شكر] (gratitude).

Core Definitions and Terminologies

  • Linguistic and technical meanings of Fiqh [فقه].
  • Explanation of key Islamic terms: Hamd [حمد], Shukr [شكر], and Rahmah [رحمة].
  • Understanding the relationship between Tashrih [تشريع] (legislation) and Ahkam [أحكام] (rulings).

The Centrality of the Prophet ﷺ

  • Praise of the Prophet Muhammad ﷺ in scholarly introductions.
  • The significance of Salah wa Salam [صلاة وسلام] upon him.
  • The unique status of the Prophet ﷺ as Sayyid al-Mursaleen [سيد المرسلين] and Al-Mustafa [المصطفى].

Transitioning to the Core Subject

  • Significance of Amma Ba’d [أما بعد] as a transition in Islamic writing.
  • Preparing for the detailed study of the Zad Al-Mustaqni’ [زاد المستقنع].

Practical Implementation and Memorization

  • Importance of memorization for foundational texts.
  • Explanation of the approach to madna [متن] memorization and what to prioritize.
  • Guidance for using available editions and publications.

Conclusion and Further Study Plans

  • Review of the key points in the introduction.
  • Outline of upcoming sessions, focusing on Kitab Al-Tahara [كتاب الطهارة].
  • Encouragement for consistency and engagement in the study of fiqh.

 

Part 2

Introduction to the Study

  • Opening with praise (Alhamdulillah Rabbil Alameen [الحمد لله رب العالمين]).
  • The significance of the chosen text, Zad Al-Mustaqni’ [زاد المستقنع], and its commentary, Al-Rawd Al-Murbi’ [الروض المربع].
  • Explanation of the integrated format of madna [متن] (concise text) and sharh [شرح] (detailed commentary).

Purpose and Structure of the Book

  • Definition of a muqtasar [مختصر] (summarized text): concise in wording, abundant in meaning.
  • The methodology of Zad Al-Mustaqni’: presenting rulings (ahkam [أحكام]) in a simplified format without extensive discussion of differences of opinion (khilaf [خلاف]).
  • Importance of starting with essential rulings (qawlin wahid [قول واحد]).

Definition of Fiqh

  • Linguistic meaning: Fiqh [فقه] as comprehension (fahm [فهم]).
  • Terminological definition: Understanding of Islamic rulings (ahkam shar’iyyah [أحكام شرعية]) with evidences (istidlal [استدلال]).
  • The distinction between Fiqh and Usul Al-Fiqh [أصول الفقه].

Foundational Texts in the Hanbali Madhhab

  • The legacy of Mukhtasar Al-Muqni’ [مختصر المقنع] by Imam Ibn Qudamah [ابن قدامة].
  • Development of the Hanbali madhhab and its reliance on mu’tamad [المعتمد] (established positions).

Clarification of Key Concepts

  • Madhhab [مذهب]: The scholarly methodology and opinions of a mujtahid [مجتهد] based on evidence.
  • Levels of scholarly effort: ijtihad [اجتهاد] (independent reasoning), avoiding blind following (taqlid [تقليد]), and reliance on established evidences.

Introduction to the Concept of Purification

  • Beginning with Kitab Al-Tahara [كتاب الطهارة]: its importance as the gateway to prayer (salah [صلاة]).
  • Linguistic meaning: Tahara [طهارة] as cleanliness (nazafa [نظافة]) and purity (nazaha [نزاهة]).

Definition of Tahara in Fiqh

  • Terminological meaning:
    • Irtifa’ Al-Hadath [ارتفاع الحدث]: Removal of a state preventing worship.
    • Zawal Al-Khabath [زوال الخبث]: Removal of physical impurity (najasa [نجاسة]).
  • Examples of situations involving purification:
    • Using water (ghusl [غسل] or wudu’ [وضوء]).
    • Purifying with soil (tayammum [تيمم]) when water is unavailable.

Introduction to Kitab Al-Tahara

  • The title Kitab [كتاب] as a structured compilation of related rulings.
  • The connection between Kitab Al-Tahara and its chapters (abwab [أبواب]), such as Bab Al-Wudu’ [باب الوضوء] and Bab Al-Istinja’ [باب الاستنجاء].

Detailed Explanation of Tahara

  • The distinction between physical (ayin [عين]) and non-physical (hukmi [حكمي]) impurities.
  • Situations requiring purification:
    • Removing visible impurities.
    • Using alternatives like istijmar [استجمار] (stone purification).
  • Additional rulings: Excessive washing and recommended practices (mustahabbat [مستحبات]).

Practical Implications of Purification

  • Preparing for acts of worship like salah [صلاة].
  • Addressing modern distractions and the importance of focusing on tahara [طهارة] as a foundational principle.

Comprehensive Understanding of Tahara

  • Summary of the definition:
    • Irtifa’ Al-Hadath wa ma fi ma’na [ارتفاع الحدث وما في معناه]: Removing states of ritual impurity.
    • Zawal Al-Khabath [زوال الخبث]: Eliminating impurities on the body, clothes, or prayer area.
  • The spiritual and practical significance of cleanliness in Islam.

 

Part 3

Introduction to the Structure of the Texts

  • Differentiating between the Matn (متن) and Sharh (شرح)
  • Importance of memorizing the Matn for understanding and studying Islamic jurisprudence.

Classification of Water Types in Islamic Jurisprudence

  • Overview of the three categories of water (Al-Miyah Thalatha – المياه ثلاثة):
    1. Purifying Water (Tahoor – طهور)
    2. Pure but Non-Purifying Water (Tahir – طاهر)
    3. Impure Water (Najis – نجس)

Definition and Characteristics of Tahoor (طهور) Water

  • Linguistic and Islamic definition.
  • Tahoor water as both pure and purifying (Mutahir – مطهر).
  • Quranic evidence from Surah Al-Anfal (8:11).

Understanding Al-Hadath (الحدث)

  • Distinction between physical impurity (Najasa – نجاسة) and the non-physical state of ritual impurity.
  • Explanation of Raf’ Al-Hadath (رفع الحدث) and its significance in Wudu (وضوء) and Ghusl (غسل).

Rules of Tahoor Water

  • Situations where Tahoor water remains valid:
    • Stagnant water (Al-Ma’ Al-Aajin – الماء الآجن).
    • Water affected by unavoidable elements (e.g., leaves, fish).
  • Situations where using Tahoor water is disliked (Makruh – مكروه):
    • Mixed with non-dissolving substances (e.g., camphor, fat).
    • Heated with impure materials.

Changes in Water Due to External Factors

  • Permissible changes due to:
    • Natural stagnation (Mukthihi – مكثه).
    • Contamination from nearby impurities (Mujawarat Maytah – مجاورة ميتة).
  • Prohibited changes due to intentional mixing with dissolving substances.

The Role of Tayammum (تيمم)

  • Explanation of Tayammum as a permissible alternative to water.
  • Tayammum as permitting (Mubih – مبيح) but not purifying.

Common Misconceptions and Clarifications

  • Difference between Tahoor and Tahir water.
  • Validity of using Zamzam water for purification.
  • Disliked but valid cases of purification (e.g., hot water, water from graveyards).

Practical Examples and Applications

  • Examples of permissible and impermissible uses of water in Wudu and Ghusl.
  • Importance of understanding historical context and modern relevance.

Conclusion and Encouragement for Further Study

  • Patience and diligence in understanding Fiqh through texts like Zad Al-Mustaqni’.
  • The necessity of consistent review and practice to master the principles of Tahara.

Part 4

Introduction to the Chapter of At-Tahara (الطهارة)

  • Definition and Importance of At-Tahara (الطهارة): Explanation of purification and its central role in Islamic worship.
  • Overview of Water Categories (أقسام الماء): Introduction to the types of water permissible for purification.

Permissible Water for Tahara (الماء الطهور)

  • Characteristics of Tahur Water (الماء الطهور): Pure and purifying water suitable for wudu’ (وضوء) and ghusl (غسل).
  • When Water Becomes Impermissible (الماء النجس): Conditions that render water impure (najis – نجس).

Makruh (Disliked) Use of Water (الماء المكروه)

  • Definition of Makruh (مكروه): Explanation of the term and its implications in Islamic law.
  • Using Previously Used Water for Recommended Purification: Rulings on using water from previous wudu’ (وضوء) or ghusl (غسل) for renewal or recommended acts.
  • Wisdom Behind Disliked Rulings: Avoiding areas of disagreement among scholars (khilaf – خلاف).

Obligatory vs. Recommended Tahara (طهارة واجبة وطهارة مستحبة)

  • Obligatory Purification (طهارة واجبة): Examples and rulings, such as wudu’ (وضوء) after losing ritual purity.
  • Recommended Purification (طهارة مستحبة): Examples like ghusl for Jumu’ah (غسل الجمعة) or Eid (غسل العيد) and the related rulings on water reuse.

Water Used for Non-Religious Purposes (الماء المستخدم لأغراض غير مشروعة)

  • Tabarrud (تبرُّد): Cooling off versus purification and its implications on water reuse.
  • Rulings on Water Leftover from Non-Religious Uses: Permissibility of using such water for tahara (طهارة).

Small vs. Large Amounts of Water (حد القلة والكثرة في الماء)

  • Defining Al-Qillah (القلة) and Al-Kathra (الكثرة): Distinguishing small and large quantities of water based on classical measurements.
  • Impact of Najasa (نجاسة) on Water Quantities: Rulings on water contamination and its purification status.

Contaminated Water: Najasa (نجاسة) and Characteristics (خصائص الماء)

  • Changing Characteristics (اللون، الطعم، الرائحة): When water’s taste, color, or smell changes due to impurities.
  • Human Impurities (بول وآذرة الآدمي): Specific rulings on urine (bawl – بول) and feces (azira – آذرة) in water and scholarly disagreements.

Hadith Evidence and Scholarly Opinions (الأدلة الحديثية وآراء العلماء)

  • Key Hadith on Water Purity (حديث بلوغ القلتين): “When water reaches Al-Qullatayn (القلتين), nothing makes it impure unless its characteristics change.”
  • Contemporary and Classical Views: Insights from scholars like Shaykh Ibn Uthaymeen and others.

Practical Applications of Tahara Rulings (تطبيقات عملية لأحكام الطهارة)

  • Examples of Common Scenarios: Application of rulings to everyday purification practices.
  • Clarification of Misunderstandings (إزالة الالتباسات): Simplifying complex issues for better understanding.

Conclusion and Reflection (الخاتمة والتأمل)

  • Summary of Key Points: Recap of the rulings on water and purification.
  • Encouragement for Further Study: Importance of deepening one’s knowledge of fiqh (فقه) for practical implementation.

Part 4

Categories of Water in Purification

  • Al-Tahūr (الطَّهُور): Water that is pure in itself and purifies others.
  • Al-Tāhir (الطَّاهِر): Water that is pure but does not purify.
  • Practical examples and rulings related to the use of water for wuḍūʾ and ghusl.

Small and Large Quantities of Water

  • Definition of Yasīr (يَسِير): Small amounts of water.
  • Explanation of Qullatayn (قُلَّتَيْن): The threshold for distinguishing large quantities.

Purification with Used Water

  • Al-Māʾ al-Mustaʿmal (الماء المُستَعمَل): Used water and its rulings.
  • Scenarios where used water retains or loses its status as purifying.

Special Rulings on Women and Water

  • Conditions for water used exclusively by women.
  • Discussion on Khalwa (خلوة): Being alone with water and its impact on purification.
  • Clarifications based on the Madhhab and Prophetic narrations.

The Concept of Taʿabbudī (تَعَبُّدِي)

  • Matters of worship that do not require rational explanation.
  • Examples from the rulings of water and purification.

Impurities and Changes in Water

  • Impact of changes in water’s taste, color, or smell.
  • Differentiating between minor and major changes.

Dust and Dry Ablution

  • Use of Turāb (تراب) for Tayammum (تيمم).
  • Comparison with water-based rulings.

Principles of Fiqh in Purification

  • Importance of understanding al-ʿIlah (العلة): The reasoning behind rulings.
  • Differences of opinion among scholars and their roots.

Practical Scenarios and Applications

  • Specific cases, including use of stagnant water and mixed water.
  • Guidelines for communal use of water during wuḍūʾ or ghusl.

Conclusion and Final Notes

  • Summary of rulings on water categories.
  • Encouragement for deeper study and review.

 

Part 5

Categories of Water in Islam

  • Al-Ṭahūr (الطهور): Water that purifies and is itself pure.
  • Al-Ṭāhir (الطاهر): Water that is pure but cannot purify.
  • Practical examples distinguishing between the two categories.

Minor and Major States of Impurity (Al-Ḥadath al-Aṣghar wa al-Akbar – الحدث الأصغر والأكبر)

  • Definitions and distinctions.
  • Conditions requiring wuḍūʾ (وضوء) or ghusl (غسل).

The Concept of Yaseer (يسير) and Al-Qullatayn (القلتين)

  • Explanation of small and large quantities of water.
  • Fiqh rulings when impurities fall into water.

Special Rulings Regarding Water Used by Women

  • Conditions for water becoming impermissible for men’s use.
  • Discussion on seclusion (khalwah – خلوة) and its impact on rulings.

Principle of Taʿabbud (تعبّد): Acts Beyond Rational Comprehension

  • Understanding rulings that are based solely on divine command.
  • Example: Why certain rulings apply uniquely to women’s water.

Differentiating Pure Water from Impurities

  • The impact of additives like food or dust.
  • How to identify when water becomes Ṭāhir (الطاهر).

Rulings on Used Water (Al-Māʾ al-Mustaʿmal – الماء المستعمل)

  • Fiqh rulings for small versus large quantities.
  • Examples of permissible and impermissible uses.

Key Exceptions and Practical Applications

  • When tayammum (تيمم) becomes obligatory.
  • Using water for non-religious purification purposes.

Conclusion and Practical Fiqh Applications

  • Summary of rulings from Zād al-Mustaqniʿ (زاد المستقنع).
  • Encouragement to continually review and apply knowledge.

Part 6

Classification of Water 

  • Pure Water (Ṭahūr) [طَهور]: Water that is inherently pure and can be used for purification.
  • Pure but Non-Purifying Water (Ṭāhir) [طاهر]: Water that remains pure but cannot purify.
  • Impure Water (Najis) [نَجِس]: Water rendered impure due to contamination.

Detailed Discussion on Pure but Non-Purifying Water

  • Characteristics of Ṭāhir water.
  • Scenarios where water becomes Ṭāhir and its limitations.
  • Examples: Water changed by cooking or contact with impurities.

The Concept of Minimal Water (Māʾ Qaleel) [ماء قليل]

  • Definition and parameters of minimal water (less than two qullahs [قلّتين]).
  • Conditions that affect the status of Māʾ Qaleel.
  • Practical rulings for immersion and contamination.

Conditions for Contaminated Water

  • Immersion of hands post-sleep and its rulings.
  • Impact of non-Muslims or children on water’s purity.
  • Significance of intentional versus accidental immersion.

Practical Applications of Purification

  • Using Ṭāhir water for removing physical impurities (Najāsah) [نجاسة].
  • Exceptions for necessity when Ṭāhir water is the only available source.

Introduction to Impure Water (Najis)

  • Definition and examples of Najis water.
  • Changes in water’s characteristics by impurities (Ṭaʿm, Lawn, Rīḥ) [طَعم، لون، ريح].

Purification of Impure Water

  • Methods of restoring water’s purity:
    • Adding an abundant amount of Ṭahūr water.
    • Allowing natural processes (evaporation, filtration).
  • Practical examples of removing Najāsah from wells and containers.

Key Fiqh Principles in Handling Najāsah

  • Rulings on light and deep sleep and its effect on Wuḍūʾ.
  • Specific rulings on Madhī [مَذِي] and Manī [مَني].
  • Emphasis on ease (Mashaqah) [مشقة] in purification rulings.

Conclusion and Summary

  • Recap of major rulings and practical implications.
  • Encouragement to reflect on the comprehensiveness and relevance of Islamic rulings in all scenarios.

Part 7

Categories of Water in Fiqh (فِقْهُ)

  • Tahur (طَهُورٌ): Definition and ruling of pure and purifying water.
  • Najis (نَجِسٌ): Characteristics and rulings of impure water.
  • Shak (الشَّكُّ) in Water Purity: Dealing with doubts about water purity based on certainty (Yaqeen).

Principle of Certainty in Islamic Jurisprudence

  • Yaqeen (الْيَقِينُ): The foundation of rulings and its role in overriding doubt.
  • Ash-Shak (الشَّكُّ – Doubt): How doubt arises and when it does not impact rulings.
  • Al-Asl (الأَصْلُ – Foundational Principle): Establishing rulings on known states.

Doubts in Water Purity

  • Case 1: Doubt regarding the impurity of water that was originally pure.
  • Case 2: Doubt about the purification of water that was impure.
  • Ruling: Maintaining the original certainty (Yaqeen – الْيَقِينُ) and dismissing the doubt.

Al-Ishtibah (الاِشْتِبَاهُ): Uncertainty Between Two Items

  • Definition: Differentiating Al-Ishtibah (الاِشْتِبَاهُ) from Ash-Shak (الشَّكُّ).
  • Example 1: Two containers, one with Tahur (طَهُورٌ) water and the other Najis (نَجِسٌ) water.
    • Prohibition of usage and obligation to perform Tayammum (تَيَمُّمٌ).
  • Example 2: Mixing Tahur (طَهُورٌ) and Najis (نَجِسٌ) water under specific conditions.

Dealing with Mixed Purity in Garments

  • Tahur (طَهُورٌ) vs. Najis (نَجِسٌ) Garments: How to pray when some garments are known to be impure.
  • Procedure: Number of prayers required to ensure certainty (Yaqeen – الْيَقِينُ).
  • Halal (حَلَالٌ) vs. Haram (حَرَامٌ) Garments: Implications of stolen or impermissible clothing.

Special Cases

  • Tight Spaces with Najasa (نَجَاسَةٌ): Rulings on praying in confined areas with potential impurities.
  • Stolen Water or Garments: Prohibition of use and invalidation of worship.

Practical Application

  • Investigation (Taharri, التَّحَرِّي): The need for due diligence in ambiguous situations.
  • Avoiding Waswasa (وَسْوَسَةٌ): How certainty (Yaqeen – الْيَقِينُ) protects from unnecessary compulsion.

Broader Applications of Yaqeen (الْيَقِينُ)

  • Similar Scenarios: Applying the principle of certainty to missed prayers, Qibla (قِبْلَةٌ) direction, and other acts of worship.

Part 8

Definition of Al-Aniya (الأواني)

  • Explanation of the term “Aniya” as containers, pots, and dishes.
  • The importance of understanding their rulings for purification (طهارة).

The Sequence of Chapters in Kitab Al-Tahara (كتاب الطهارة)

  • Overview of the placement of Bab Al-Aniya within Kitab Al-Tahara.
  • Connection between rulings on water and containers.

General Rulings on Containers

  • The default ruling: All containers are pure (طاهر) unless proven otherwise.
  • Examples of materials: wood (خشب), leather (جلود), copper (صفر), iron (حديد), and modern equivalents like porcelain and plastic.

Exceptions: Gold (ذهب) and Silver (فضة)

  • Prohibition of containers made entirely or partially of gold and silver.
  • Explanation of the hadith forbidding their use due to extravagance and harm to the poor.

Permissibility of Precious Materials Other than Gold and Silver

  • Clarification that materials like rubies or other valuable stones are permissible.
  • Distinction between ostentation and practical usage.

Rulings on Stolen Containers

  • Prohibition of using stolen containers (المغصوبة).
  • Validity of purification (طهارة) despite the container being haram.

Use of Gold and Silver for Repairs (اللحام)

  • Permissibility of using small amounts of silver for welding containers.
  • Conditions: insignificance of the amount, practical necessity, and absence of ostentation.

Touching and Using Permitted Containers

  • Disliked (مكروه) to directly touch or drink from the silver part of a permissible container.
  • Exceptions when there is no alternative.

Containers of Non-Muslims (أواني الكفار)

  • Discussion deferred to the next session for clarity.

Wisdom Behind Prohibitions

  • Avoiding extravagance and arrogance.
  • Preservation of resources for the benefit of the Ummah.

Closing Supplication

  • Du’a for sincerity in seeking knowledge and for the preservation of authentic Islamic teachings.
  • Encouragement to apply and transmit knowledge faithfully.

Part 9

Ruling on Using Containers of Non-Muslims (آنية الكفار)

  • Permissibility of using utensils belonging to non-Muslims (kuffār).
  • Condition: Permissible unless impurity (najāsah) is known.
  • Discussion of the foundational principle: “Al-aṣl fī al-ashyāʾ aṭ-ṭahārah” (The default ruling is purity unless proven otherwise).

Garments of Non-Muslims (ثياب الكفار)

  • Rulings on wearing clothes of disbelievers, even if they touch private parts.
  • Principle of assuming purity unless impurity is evident.

Principle of Purity and Certainty (Al-Yaqīn lā Yazūlu bi-Shakk)

  • Explanation of the principle: Certainty is not removed by doubt.
  • Application in cases of utensils, garments, and other items.

Hadith Evidence on Using Non-Muslim Containers

  • Analysis of hadith regarding the Prophet ﷺ using a water skin belonging to a polytheist (mushrikah).
  • Clarification of scholarly discussions on wordings and implications.

Disliked Practices in Prayer Garments (مكروهات في الثياب)

  • Dislike of praying in clothes of:
    • Breastfeeding women (murdhiʿ).
    • Menstruating women (ḥāʾiḍ).
    • Children (ṣabī).
  • Differentiation between makrūh (disliked) and ḥarām (prohibited).

Impurity of Dead Animal Skins (جلد الميتة)

  • Definition of maytah (dead animal not slaughtered according to Islamic law).
  • Ruling: Dead animal skins cannot be purified through tanning.

Conditions for Permissibility of Tanned Skins

  • Skins of permissible animals (ḥalāl) are pure after tanning, but only for solid items, not liquids.
  • Conditions:
    • The animal was pure in life.
    • Tanning must remove all traces of impurity.

Impurity of Body Parts from Living Animals

  • Body parts detached from a living animal are considered impure if the animal’s maytah is impure.
  • Exceptions for fish and animals whose maytah is pure.

Rulings on Milk, Horns, and Feathers

  • Milk and body parts (e.g., horns, hoofs) of maytah are impure.
  • Feathers, wool, and hair are exceptions if the animal was pure in life.

Ruling on Eggs from Dead Birds

  • Permissible to eat eggs if they are solid and intact despite the bird’s death.
  • Impurity applies if the egg is liquid.

Summary of Differences in Scholarly Opinions

  • Differences among scholars regarding tanning and the purity of maytah skins.
  • Discussion of ḥadīth authenticity and its impact on rulings.

Part 10

The Fiqh of Al-Istinja’ (الاستنجاء)

  • Religious definition: Removing impurities (Najasa, نجاسة) from the body.
  • Methods of purification: Using water (Istinja’) or stones (Istijmar, استجمار).
  • Differences between Istinja’ and Istijmar in terminology and rulings.

Recommended Practices (Sunan) Related to Al-Istinja’

  • Before Entering the Bathroom:
    • Saying Bismillah (بسم الله) and A‘udhu billahi min al-khubthi wal-khaba’ith (أعوذ بالله من الخبث والخبائث).
    • Linguistic and contextual meanings of al-khubth (الخُبْث) and al-khaba’ith (الخَبَائِث).
  • After Exiting the Bathroom:
    • Saying Ghafranak (غفرانك): Seeking Allah’s forgiveness.
    • Additional dhikr: Alhamdulillah alladhi adh-haba ‘anni al-adha wa ‘afani (الحمد لله الذي أذهب عني الأذى وعافاني).

Entering and Exiting the Bathroom

  • Enter with the left foot, exit with the right, opposite to the etiquette of entering/exiting the mosque.
  • General principles of using the right side for acts of purity and the left for impurities.

Physical Etiquette During Al-Istinja’

  • Leaning on the left leg while seated for purification.
  • Practical wisdom and rulings derived from weak hadiths supported by scholarly consensus.

Broader Reflections on Purity and Humility

  • The importance of maintaining balance between following the Sunnah and avoiding waswasah (excessive doubt).
  • Gratitude for Allah’s provision of ease in fulfilling natural human functions.

Memorization and Application of Zad al-Mustaqni‘ on Al-Istinja’

  • Key points to memorize for students of fiqh.
  • Practical steps for understanding and implementing these rulings in daily life.

Conclusion and Encouragement

  • Reminder of the significance of studying Islamic rulings as an act of worship.
  • The importance of patience and consistency in learning.

Part 11

Introduction to Bab al-Istinja’

  • Definition of Istinja’ (الاستنجاء): Cleansing oneself after answering the call of nature.
  • Overview of Mustahabbat (مستحبات): Recommended practices for cleanliness.

Recommended Actions When Answering the Call of Nature

  • Entering with the left foot and leaving with the right.
  • The prophetic practice of seeking a secluded and concealed place (al-Bu’ad [البعد] and al-Istitar [الاستتار]).

Avoiding Najasa (Impurities)

  • Choosing soft surfaces to avoid splashes (al-Irtiyad [الارتياد]).
  • Practical methods to prevent urine rebound and ensure cleanliness.

Techniques for Proper Cleansing

  • The method of wiping (Mas’hu [المسح]) after urination.
  • Explanation of unauthentic narrations related to al-Natri (النتر) and their implications.

Changing Location for Istinja’

  • The recommendation to move away from the spot of urination or defecation for cleansing.

Order of Cleansing Front and Back

  • Differences in sequence based on gender and marital status.
  • General guidance for optimal hygiene and preventing contamination.

Disliked Practices (Makroohat [مكروهات])

  • Entering the bathroom with items bearing Allah’s name.
  • Lifting garments prematurely.
  • Speaking, reading Quran, or engaging in conversation inside the bathroom.

Additional Disliked Practices

  • Urinating in holes or containers without necessity.
  • Using the right hand for cleansing or touching private parts.
  • Facing or turning one’s back toward the Qibla, sun, or moon.

Clarification on Modern Bathroom Settings

  • Differentiating between toilet and sink areas.
  • Practical applications in shared and public restrooms.

Conclusion and Practical Insights

  • Importance of adhering to Islamic guidelines for hygiene.
  • The ongoing relevance of these teachings for personal and communal well-being.

Part 12

Chapter of Al-Istinja’ (الاستنجاء)

  • Definition of Istinja’ and its role in maintaining purification.
  • Overview of actions related to cleanliness in Islam.

Prohibitions in Al-Istinja’

  • Facing or turning away from the Qibla (الكعبة) during Istinja’:
    • Explanation of Istiqbal (facing) and Istidbar (turning away).
    • Contextual application of hadiths, especially for open areas (ghayr bunyan).
  • Importance of barriers (ha’il, حائل) in open spaces.

Makruh Actions in Al-Istinja’

  • Facing the Qibla while cleaning oneself after relieving needs.
  • Overstaying in the restroom unnecessarily (Lubth, لبث) and its harms:
    • Medical, spiritual, and social consequences.

Haram Actions Related to Defecation and Urination

  • Urinating or defecating on pathways, beneficial shade, or under fruit-bearing trees.
  • Environmental and ethical considerations.

Methods of Purification in Al-Istinja’

  • Preferred order of purification:
    • Using stones or tissues (Istijmar, استجمار) followed by water (Istinja’, استنجاء).
    • Permissibility of using either method alone.
  • Explanation of sufficient cleaning and removal of impurities.

Exceptions in Purification

  • Rules for unconventional cases:
    • Spread of impurities beyond normal areas (Mowdi’ al-‘Ada, موضع العادة).
    • Specific guidelines for hermaphrodites (Khuntha Mushkil, خنثى مشكل) and post-surgical cases.

General Principles of Islamic Cleanliness

  • Avoiding extremism and waswas in purification.
  • Encouragement for ease and practicality in fulfilling obligations.

Concluding Remarks

  • Importance of studying and understanding foundational texts like Zad Al-Mustaqna’.
  • Encouragement for consistent study and reflection for personal growth in fiqh.
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