Hadith Text & Chain of Narration

The Apostle of Allaḥ (ṣall Allāhu 'alayhi wa sallam) said: "When there is enough water to fill two pitchers (qullatayn), it does not become impure."

Abū Dāwūd said: "Ḥammād b. Zayd has narrated this tradition on the authority of 'Āṣim (without any reference to the Prophet)."

Scholarly Commentary (Sharḥ)

This ḥadīth establishes a fundamental principle in purification law: large quantities of water are not affected by minor impurities. The "two pitchers" (qullatayn) mentioned refer to a specific measurement understood by scholars as approximately 500 ratls (Iraqi pounds), equivalent to roughly 160-200 liters.

Imam al-Nawawī explains that when water reaches this quantity, it does not become impure through contact with minor impurities, as the sheer volume prevents the water's natural properties from changing. This ruling applies to still water in containers or natural reservoirs.

The note by Imām Abū Dāwūd regarding the chain indicates this narration reaches the Companion level (mawqūf) through 'Āṣim al-Aḥwal, though other authentic chains establish it as Prophetic speech (marfū'). Scholars accept both versions as evidence, as Companion statements on matters not subject to personal opinion are treated as having Prophetic authority.

Juridical Applications

1. Water below the qullatayn measurement becomes impure if it contacts impurities and changes in color, taste, or smell.

2. Flowing water (rivers, streams) follows different rules and generally does not become impure unless thoroughly contaminated.

3. The Ḥanafī school measures purity by surface area rather than volume, considering large bodies of water pure regardless of quantity.

4. Modern applications include determining purity of water tanks, swimming pools, and large containers according to this classical measurement.