Is Tayammum permissible if one fears missing the funeral prayer (Janazah)?
Chapter on Tayammum
Al-Mughni
Book of Purification
Primary text
There is a difference of opinion regarding fearing missing the funeral prayer. One narration states that Tayammum is impermissible based on the obligation to purify and the general command to use water when available.
Supporting text
The predominant view permits Tayammum and allows the person to pray over the deceased. This view is held by Al-Nakh'i, Al-Zuhri, Al-Hasan, Yahya al-Ansari, Sa'd ibn Ibrahim, Al-Layth, Al-Thawri, Al-Awza'i, Ishaq, and the companions of Al-Ra'y. The reasoning is that the funeral prayer cannot be caught up later via Wudu (purification), resembling the case of one who has no water.