the first view, even though its proponents were unaware of this. But those who considered the underlying meaning said: A stone with several sides is like three separate stones, provided that its sides do not overlap, such that when we wipe with one side, the impurity reaches the other side.

This is the stronger view in this matter, because the effective cause is known. Thus, if the stone has several sides and one cleanses oneself with each of its surfaces, it is valid.

Some scholars said that the Messenger, peace and blessings be upon him, stipulated three stones so that one stone would be for the right side, another for the left, and another for the anal opening. (1)

It is recommended to conclude with an odd number.

His statement, “It is recommended to conclude with an odd number,” means concluding the cleansing with stones; what is meant is the number of wipes. Thus, if one is cleansed with four, he adds a fifth; and if he is cleansed with six, he adds a seventh, and so on.

The evidence is what is established in the two Sahihs: the Prophet, peace and blessings be upon him, said, “Whoever cleanses himself with stones should use an odd number.” (2) The lam here indicates a command.

If someone were to ask: The basic rule regarding a command is that it denotes obligation, and this would imply that using an odd number is obligatory.

The response is: Yes, the basic rule regarding a command is that it denotes obligation. If what is meant by using an odd number is three wipes, then the command denotes obligation, due to the hadith of Salman mentioned previously. (3) But if what is meant is anything beyond three, then the command denotes recommendation, as indicated by his statement, peace and blessings be upon him: