of food. Imām Mālik said that there is no harm in drinking directly from the mouth of a water-skin, while other scholars deemed it disliked because sound reports speak against it and because of the possible harm to the drinker.

It is likewise permissible to urinate while standing in soft ground—such as loose soil—where one is safe from splashing. There is no objection to drawing near someone who is standing to relieve himself, but one should not come close when he is squatting, for every seated flow of urine gives off an offensive odor. Whoever needs to relieve himself should withdraw from people and conceal himself, for Allah detests anyone who chats while answering the call of nature.

Urinating in a wash-basin is discouraged; if the water in it is flowing, however, there is no harm. It is impermissible for anyone to urinate in still water.

When a person yawns, he should repress it as much as he can and place his hand over his mouth. The one who sneezes should lower his voice if possible, yet utter his praise of Allah aloud so that those nearby hear him. Whoever hears him says, “May Allah have mercy on you,” and the sneezer replies, “May Allah forgive us and you,” or, “for us and for you all.” If he instead replies, “May Allah guide you and set your affairs aright,” that too is commendable.

The tashmīt—responding to the sneezer—is due for the first, second, and third sneezes only; after that the obligation falls from those who hear him. The sneezer himself, however, should praise Allah every time he finishes a sneeze, unless the sneezes come in immediate succession, in which case he praises Allah at their conclusion.

It is courteous for the companion to excuse himself to the sneezer for not offering the tashmīt after the third sneeze, saying to him, “You….”