of the vessel, and the vessel is not a condition for ablution; nor does the validity of ablution depend on using this vessel.
Thus, purification is valid from, by means of, in, and into vessels of gold and silver.
From them: by scooping water from the vessel.
By means of them: that is, using it as an implement from which to pour—for example, scooping water with a gold vessel and pouring it over one’s feet or forearm.
In them: meaning that the vessel is large enough for one to immerse oneself in it.
Into them: when the water that runs off a person flows into a gold vessel.
Here, the prepositions alter the meaning, and this demonstrates the richness of Arabic philology.
Except for a small silver band needed for repair, …
His statement, “Except for a small silver band needed for repair,” is an exception to his statement, “It is unlawful to acquire and use them.”
The conditions for permissibility are four:
- It must be a band.
- It must be small.
- It must be made of silver.
- It must be needed for repair.
The evidence for this is what is established in Sahih al-Bukhari, in the hadith of Anas, may Allah be pleased with him: “The Prophet’s ﷺ drinking cup broke …”