Is ritual bathing (Ghusl) required if fluid resembling semen is discharged due to illness or coldness, without sexual arousal?
Chapter on What Necessitates Ghusl
Al-Mughni
Book of Purification
Primary text
Ritual bathing (Ghusl) is not obligatory if fluid resembling semen is discharged due to sickness or coldness, provided it is not accompanied by sexual desire. This is the position held by Abu Hanifa and Malik. The evidence is that the defining characteristic of semen that necessitates Ghusl is its being white and thick, as described by the Prophet (peace be upon him). Furthermore, the ruling applies because the discharge in this case lacks the necessary element of sexual arousal, distinguishing it from semen discharged with desire.
Supporting text
The view of Al-Shafi'i mandates Ghusl in this situation, supported by the general statement of the Prophet (peace be upon him), "When she sees the water," and the Hadith, "The water is from the water." Furthermore, it is argued that since semen has exited, Ghusl is required, similar to a discharge during a faint. The interpretation of "When she sees the water" refers specifically to nocturnal emission, which occurs with desire. The opposing Hadith regarding 'seeing water' is considered abrogated, or alternatively, this discharge can be excluded because it lacks the described physical properties of true semen.