This narration does not contradict the obligation of maintaining order (tartib), as we mentioned. Rather, it indicates that continuity (muwalat) is not obligatory. According to us, continuity is not required in ghusl, but it is obligatory in wudu. This has already been discussed sufficiently, by Allah’s سبحانه وتعالى will. Then he, Shaykh (Al-Mufid), may Allah سبحانه وتعالى support him, said: "If one pours water from a vessel to assist in ghusl, he should perform it as we have described: starting with the head, then the right side of the body, and then the left side." This clarifies the obligation of order (tartib). He, Shaykh (Al-Mufid), may Allah سبحانه وتعالى support him, further said: "One should strive to ensure that no part of the external body is left without water touching it." This also indicates the importance of thoroughness in ghusl.
Commentary #22