As a woman studying Islam, it is common to be curious about the rules around reading Islamic books during menstruation.
Because the period often brings a set of restrictions and limitations in various aspects of life. So, can you read Islamic books on your period to deepen your knowledge and connection with the teachings of Islam?
During menstruation, women are generally permitted to read, touch, and carry books on Islam, including tafsir books that contain Quranic verses.
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There is consensus among scholars that women, especially students of Islam, can engage with educational materials to avoid forgetting the teachings of the Quran. The focus is often on reciting specific phrases and supplications rather than the Quran itself.
We will discuss the Fatwa regarding reading the Islamic book during menstruation in-depth so that you clearly understand the matter.
Reading Islamic Books on Your Period: Fatwa and Islamic Perspective
Islamic scholars provide Fatwa, a legal opinion based on the Quran and Hadith (sayings of Prophet Muhammad) that clarifies the matter of reading Islamic books during menstruation.
Permissibility of Reading Islamic Books During Menstruation
According to the consensus among scholars, menstruating women are generally permitted to read and engage with Islamic books. Most scholars agree that there’s no harm in a woman in her period reading and touching books on Islam, even if they contain verses from the Quran.
This consensus extends specifically to women who are studying Islam, allowing them to carry, read, and touch books or works of tafsir that contain Quranic verses during menstruation.
During their menstrual cycle, women should be able to continue learning Shari’ah and not miss out on the teachings. Consequently, women are encouraged to keep reading Islamic literature and learn more about the religion, regardless of their menstrual cycle.
Also Check: What Can You Recite During Periods?
Opinions on Touching the Quran for Menstruating Women
Scholars have differing opinions regarding touching and reciting the Quran itself.
The majority of scholars hold the view that it’s impermissible for a menstruating woman to touch or carry the full Quran. They draw parallels between menstruation and the state of Janabah, both requiring ritual purification.
Several hadiths indicate that the Prophet Muhammad forbade those in the state of Janabah from reciting the Quran.
However, there are differing opinions among scholars. Some, including Imam Malik and an opinion narrated from Ahmad, allow menstruating women to recite the Quran.
They argue that there’s no explicit prohibition and emphasize the importance of women continuing to earn rewards and fulfill teaching or learning purposes.
Regarding touching the Quran directly, scholars unanimously agree that it is forbidden for a person in any state of impurity, including menstruation, to touch the actual Arabic text of the Quran.
This is based on the Quranic verse, “…which none can touch except the purified” (al-Waqi’ah 56:79), and the Prophet’s hadith emphasizes that only pure people should touch the Quran.
Continue Learning and Growing Spiritually During Your Period
Based on the insights into the permissibility of reading Islamic books during your period, it’s evident that Islamic scholars generally agree on allowing women to engage with such literature.
The consensus emphasizes the importance of continuous learning, particularly for those studying Islam. You can better understand the faith and its teachings, contributing to your spiritual journey irrespective of your menstrual cycle.
But do not touch the Quran directly during this time, as scholars agree it’s forbidden for anyone in any state of impurity to touch the Arabic text of the Quran. Maintain your commitment to learning, and may your exploration of Islamic literature enrich your connection with the divine teachings.
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References:
https://www.fatwa-online.com/reading-religious-books-whilst-on-her-menses/
https://islamqa.org/hanafi/qibla-hanafi/36027/menstruation-touching-books-of-invocations/
https://fiqh.islamonline.net/en/can-menstruating-women-touch-books-containing-quranic-verses/
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