Hadith about the three things that interrupt Salah

Q: Your Eminence, I am a woman who lives close to one of the Masjids (mosques) in Al-Dammam and this Masjid is a Masjid Jami` (the large mosque where Jumu`ah [Friday] Prayers are held). Praise be to Allah, I observe Salah (Prayer) on (Part No. 17; Page No. 12) its due time. I have average knowledge. Once, I heard the Imam (the one who leads congregational Prayer) of the Masjid through microphones saying: Salah is interrupted by three: A woman, a black dog, and a donkey. I do not know the degree of the validity of this Hadith. How can a woman be associated with a donkey or a dog? Is she Najisah (ritually impure)? Please advise us, may Allah reward you best.

A: First: A Muslim has to submit to the rulings of Shari`ah (Islamic Law), whether they know the wisdom behind them or not. Second: Women are not Najis, but some scholars have inferred that the reason behind this is that a woman is a source of seduction to men. Third: This Hadith has been authentically reported from the Messenger of Allah (peace be upon him). These three things cut off Salah if they pass in front of the person offering it, or if they pass between them and their Sutrah (barrier placed in front of a person praying). Therefore, we have to submit to the ruling of Allah and act in accordance with it. The meaning of cutting according to the most preponderant opinion of scholars is that Salah becomes null. May Allah grant us success. May peace and blessings be upon our Prophet Muhammad, his family, and Companions.