the obligation of ghusl even if he does not ejaculate. This is something that is unknown to many people. Thus, one finds that spouses may engage in this act without performing ghusl, especially when they are young and have not been taught. This is because they assume that ghusl is obligatory only upon ejaculation, but this is mistaken.

Whether vaginally or anally, even with an animal or a corpse, …

His statement, “whether vaginally or anally”: Anal intercourse is forbidden even with one’s wife, and with anyone else all the more so. This is mentioned merely as an example. It has previously been stated that the jurists, may Allah have mercy on them, cite examples without regard to whether the matter is lawful or forbidden; its ruling is determined elsewhere. (1)

His statement, “even with an animal or a corpse”: The word “even” indicates that there is a difference of opinion. Some scholars hold that, for ghusl to become obligatory through intercourse, it must take place in the private part of a living human being. (2) According to this view, if one inserts into the private part of a dead woman—although this is forbidden—ghusl is obligatory upon him; likewise, if he inserts into an animal, ghusl is obligatory upon him.

Some scholars say that ghusl is not obligatory through intercourse with a dead woman unless he ejaculates. (625) Their evidence is the Prophet’s saying, peace and blessings be upon him: “When he sits between her four limbs and then exerts himself with her.” This does not occur when she is dead, since he does not exert himself with her.

Moreover, the pleasure he derives from her is unlike the pleasure he derives from a living woman.

As for an animal, the matter is even further removed, since it is not a place for human intercourse according to the natural disposition, and intercourse with it is never lawful.

Is the absence of a barrier a condition?