Title: Bathing in Illness Question: If I am ill and I can't take a shower although I need it to get rid of my ejaculation, what do I do to offer my prayers? Answer: The Qur'an, immediately after directing the Muslims to bathe themselves after sexual intercourse or sexual climaxing, has given the allowance of Tayammum for three situations ( Al-Maaidah 5: 6): In case of illness; In case of traveling; and In case of the non-availability of water. Tayammum is a symbolic representation of wudhu (ablution) and/or ghusl (bath). According to Al-Maaidah 5: 6, in case a person is not in a position, due to the specified reasons, to conveniently do wudhu or ghusl , he may brush his hands on dry earth and then wipe his hands on his face and arms. This practice is called Tayammum . Tayammum is primarily a symbol and a reminder of wudhu and/or ghusl that a Muslim is not in a position to do because of his particular circumstances. After Tayammum , one can offer his sala'h in the same manner, as he would have done after wudhu and/or ghusl . 6 th June 2000