Sayyiduna Abu Dharr Ghifari (may Allah be pleased with him) narrates: Some goats were gathered with the Prophet Muhammad (peace and blessings be upon him). The Prophet (peace be upon him) said: "O Abu Dharr! Stay with them in the countryside." Sayyiduna Abu Dharr says: I took them to the place of Rabadhah. I became junub (in a state of major ritual impurity). I remained in that state for five or six days. I presented myself before the Prophet (peace be upon him), and he said: "Abu Dharr," I remained silent. Then he said: "O Abu Dharr, may your mother weep for you." Then I informed him about the matter. The Prophet (peace be upon him) called for a black slave-girl. She brought a vessel of water and set up a curtain for me. I went behind the mount (for privacy). I performed ghusl (ritual bath), and it felt as if a mountain had been lifted from me. Then the Prophet (peace be upon him) said: "Pure earth is a means of purification for a Muslim, even if he does not find water for ten years. When you find water, then touch it to your skin (i.e., perform ghusl), for that is better."