Hadith Text & Context

Narrated `Ammar: The Messenger of Allah (ﷺ) said: "It would have been enough for you to do like this" - and he struck the ground with his palms once, then wiped his right hand with the left and the back of his hands and his face.

This narration from Sahih al-Bukhari 341 concerns the companion `Ammar ibn Yasir, who found himself in a state of ritual impurity without access to water. His initial action of rolling in dust demonstrates his earnest desire for purification to perform prayer.

Legal Rulings of Tayammum

Tayammum serves as a substitute for wudu (ablution) and ghusl (ritual bath) when water is unavailable, harmful to use, or scarce for essential needs.

The striking of hands upon pure earth once suffices, contrary to wudu which requires washing each limb separately. This demonstrates Allah's mercy in facilitating worship during hardship.

The wiping covers only the face and hands up to the wrists, showing the concession's limited scope compared to full ablution.

Scholarly Commentary

Imam al-Nawawi explains that the Prophet's correction of `Ammar's excessive rolling establishes the sunnah method: striking pure earth once, then wiping face and hands.

Ibn Hajar al-Asqalani notes that this hadith proves tayammum requires intention (niyyah) like other acts of worship, though `Ammar's intention is implied by his action.

Scholars derive that the valid materials for tayammum include pure earth, sand, stone, and similar natural surfaces containing dust.

Spiritual Dimensions

This concession reflects Islam's balance between spiritual requirements and practical realities, avoiding unnecessary hardship.

The simplicity of tayammum reminds believers that purity originates from Allah's grace, not merely physical means.

`Ammar's incident teaches that sincere intention coupled with prophetic guidance ensures worship's validity, even with concessions.