"A man asked Allah's Messenger 'O Messenger of Allah! We sail the seas, and we only carry a little water with us. If we use it for Wudu then we will go thirsty. So shall we perform Wudu from the (water of the) sea?' Allah's Messenger said: 'Its water is pure, and its dead are lawful.'"
The Book on Purification - Jami' at-Tirmidhi
Hadith Reference: Jami` at-Tirmidhi 69
Textual Analysis
This noble hadith addresses a practical concern of early Muslim seafarers regarding ritual purification. The questioner demonstrates wisdom in conserving drinking water during voyages, showing the Shariah's consideration for real-world circumstances.
The Prophet's response contains two distinct rulings: "Its water is pure" establishes seawater's suitability for wudu, while "its dead are lawful" provides a separate ruling regarding sea creatures.
Legal Rulings
Scholars unanimously agree that seawater is pure and purifying based on this hadith. It removes both minor and major impurities, making it valid for wudu, ghusl, and cleansing impurities from clothing or vessels.
The permissibility of sea creatures that die naturally (without proper slaughter) is established, unlike land animals. This includes fish, crustaceans, and other marine life that washes ashore dead.
Scholarly Commentary
Imam at-Tirmidhi classified this hadith as hasan sahih (good and authentic). Scholars note the comprehensive nature of this ruling, covering both purification and dietary laws.
The Hanafi school extends this ruling to all large bodies of water, while other schools maintain the specific mention of seawater. All agree that the salt content does not nullify purification.
This hadith demonstrates Islam's practical adaptability to various environments and circumstances, affirming that the religion is not burdensome.