What is the ruling on breaking Tawaf due to ritual impurity (Hadath)?

Chapter on Mentioning Hajj and Entering Makkah

Al-Mughni

Book of Hajj

Book 11 · Issue 3 · Bab 4

Open in Qurani

Primary text

If ritual impurity occurs intentionally during Tawaf, the Tawaf must be restarted because purity is a prerequisite, rendering the act void, similar to prayer. If impurity occurs unintentionally (spontaneous emission), there are two narrations. One narration, held by Al-Hasan and Malik, suggests restarting the Tawaf, based on analogy with prayer. The second narration, held by Al-Shafi'i and Ishaq, permits washing (Wudu) and continuing (building upon the previous circuits). Ahmad, as related by Hanbal, permits building upon the circuit if three or more circuits have been completed, or restarting. Abu Abdullah states continuation is allowed only if the break was solely for Wudu; otherwise, if the person engages in other actions, the Tawaf must restart, especially if it is obligatory Tawaf. Obligatory Tawaf restarted due to impurity not solely related to Wudu requires a new start, but a sunnah Tawaf that is nullified does not require repetition, similar to a nullified sunnah prayer.

Supporting text

If the impurity was only minor (requiring Wudu) and the person takes Wudu, they may continue or restart, according to Ahmad's clarification. If the person intentionally does something else besides Wudu (like delaying beyond custom), they must restart, even if the Tawaf was obligatory.