Sulaiman b. Yasir said that he asked ‘A’isha about the prostatic fluid which gets on to a garment, and she replied, “I used to wash it from the garment at God's messenger, and he would go out to prayer with the mark of the washing on his garment." (Bukhari and Muslim.)
Purification of Prostatic Fluid
In the name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful. This narration from the blessed wife of the Prophet ﷺ, 'A'isha (may Allah be pleased with her), addresses the legal ruling regarding madhy (prostatic fluid) that emerges during foreplay or sexual thoughts.
The Nature of Madhy
The scholars classify madhy as a ritually pure substance, unlike semen (mani). It is a thin, white fluid that emerges without orgasmic sensation. The Prophet's ﷺ practice demonstrates its purity does not require ghusl (major ablution), merely washing the affected garment area.
Legal Ruling and Evidence
The ruling is derived from the Prophet's ﷺ action: washing the garment suffices. This indicates madhy is najis (impure) but requires only removal of the physical substance. The visible washing mark confirms the obligation to purify the garment while affirming the simplicity of the purification process.
Scholarly Consensus
All four madhhabs agree madhy requires washing. The Hanafis consider it najis, requiring washing. The Malikis view it as pure but recommend washing. The Shafi'is and Hanbalis rule it is najis and must be washed if moist, or rubbed if dry. The Prophet's ﷺ prayer with washed garments confirms validity.
Practical Application
If madhy contaminates clothing, one should wash the affected area. Wudu is not broken by its emission. This ruling reflects Islam's balanced approach to natural bodily functions, facilitating worship while maintaining purity. The visible washing mark teaches transparency in implementing religious obligations.