Pre-Islamic Tayammum?

[Harel13]

I came across the Islamic concept of Tayammum today (dry ablution with earth/sand/dust). Such a form of ablution is mentioned in the Talmud, but I was wondering whether this was something that was done in pre-Islamic Arabian societies/religions too. Does anyone know? Sources would be appreciated.

 

[Jedster]

I came across the Islamic concept of Tayammum today (dry ablution with earth/sand/dust). Such a form of ablution is mentioned in the Talmud, but I was wondering whether this was something that was done in pre-Islamic Arabian societies/religions too. Does anyone know? Sources would be appreciated.

I don't know about the origin, however, I was once in the Negev desert with a friend(who identified as a Karaite) and he told me this method. I.e we washed our hands in the sand.