Washing after Urination and Defecation

The Arabic word "Istenjaa" is used as a term for cleaning the related organs after urination and defecation. "Istenjaa", like many of the aforementioned customs and traditions, was also strictly adhered to by the Arabs, since pre-Islamic times . Depending upon the circumstances, "Istenjaa" may be performed with water, with pebbles of dry earth or with any other suitable thing. The Prophet (pbuh) is reported to have preferred using water for the purpose. Abu Hurairah (ra) is reported to have said:

When the Prophet would go to relieve himself (i.e. to urinate or defecate), I would get him water in a pot. He would perform Istenjaa with the water and brush his hand on the earth.