Tayammum, or dry ablution, is an alternative purification method in Islamic practice, used when water is unavailable or when using water is not advisable due to health reasons. It serves as a substitute for the traditional ablution (wudu) or full-body ritual purification (ghusl) required before performing certain acts of worship, such as prayer. 

Here are key aspects of Tayammum:

1. Quranic Basis: Tayammum is mentioned in the Quran in Surah Al-Ma’idah (5:6): “But if you are ill, on a journey, have relieved yourselves, or had contact with women and cannot find water, then perform Tayammum with clean earth and wipe over your faces and hands. Allah does not intend to make difficulty for you, but He intends to purify you and complete His favor upon you so that you may be grateful.”
2. Conditions for Tayammum: Tayammum is permitted under specific conditions:
   • Lack of Water: When water is unavailable within a reasonable distance.
   • Health Concerns: When using water poses a health risk, such as during illness or severe injury.
   • Insufficiency of Water: When the available water is insufficient for both personal essentials and purification.
3. Procedure: The basic steps for performing Tayammum are as follows:
   • Intention (Niyyah): Begin with the intention to perform Tayammum for purification.
   • Use of Clean Earth: Strike the palms lightly on a clean surface or natural earth, such as sand, dust, or stone. No impurities should be present on the chosen surface.
   • Wiping the Face: Wipe the face with the palms once.
   • Wiping the Hands: Wipe the hands and forearms up to the elbows.
4. Spiritual and Practical Purpose: Tayammum makes it possible for Muslims to maintain their spiritual obligations when water is not an option, ensuring that worship remains accessible and feasible under varying circumstances.
5. Temporary Measure: Tayammum is a temporary measure and does not replace the traditional wudu or ghusl in a general sense. Once water becomes available, or when health conditions permit, the regular rites of purification should be resumed.
6. Adaptability: Tayammum demonstrates Islam’s flexibility and consideration for practical and compassionate accommodations in religious observance, ensuring that no undue hardship is imposed on believers.

Tayammum provides an essential means for Muslims to maintain their ritual purity and continue their religious duties, reflecting the wider Islamic principles of ease and moderation in worship.

Written by AI. A more correct, God given, explanation can be found here.