The patient who is harmed by cold water except in the limbs of wudu, and who has major ritual impurity: does he perform wudu or tayammum?

The questioner : The patient who is harmed by cold water except in the limbs of wudu, and who has major ritual impurity: does he perform wudu or tayammum?

The Shaykh : Meaning, if he has major ritual impurity, does he perform wudu or tayammum?

The questioner: Yes.

The Shaykh : He must perform tayammum, because wudu is not sufficient for him. However, according to the opinion of some scholars, he should perform wudu as a precaution. Tayammum, however, suffices you and is enough for you, provided that he is unable to use water.

The questioner : So, is there no doubt about his leading the prayer if he is in a state of wudu?

The Shaykh : There is no problem, as long as he is in a state of wudu, is that right?

The questioner : In a state of wudu only, yes.

The Shaykh : Yes, why do you say "his leading the prayer"? Say "his prayer" instead.

The questioner : The message that...

The Shaykh : It is necessary. Be patient, my brother, may Allah guide you. It is necessary for one who has major ritual impurity and is unable to use water to perform tayammum, and then perform wudu as a precaution. If he relies on wudu alone without tayammum, his prayer is invalid for himself and for others.