Can We Read Quran in Periods? – Islamic Guidelines for Women
Introduction – The Question of Reading Quran in Periods
One of the most asked questions by Muslim women is: “Can we read Quran in periods?” This question arises because menstruation (hayd) is a natural part of a woman’s life, and women often feel spiritually distant when unable to perform acts of worship like Salah (prayer), fasting, or reciting the Quran.
At Quraan.pk, we understand how important it is for women to stay connected with the Holy Quran. In this article, we will discuss the Islamic perspective on reading Quran during menstruation, scholarly opinions, and alternative ways women can engage with the Quran when they are in this natural state.
The General Islamic Ruling on Menstruation and Worship
In Islam, menstruation is a natural condition that temporarily exempts women from certain acts of worship. The Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) taught that women are not required to pray or fast during their periods, but they can make up missed fasts later.
The question of reading or touching the Quran during periods, however, has been discussed extensively by scholars from different Islamic schools of thought.
Can Women Read Quran During Periods? – Scholarly Views
1. The Majority View (Hanafi, Shafi’i, Hanbali)
Most scholars agree that women should not physically touch the Mushaf (printed Quran) during menstruation. This ruling is based on the verse:
“None shall touch it except the purified.” (Quran 56:79)
However, there is a difference of opinion on reciting from memory or reading from digital apps.
Recitation from memory – Permissible according to many scholars since it does not involve direct contact with the Mushaf.
Using digital Quran apps – Considered permissible, as touching a phone or tablet is not the same as touching the physical Mushaf.
2. Maliki School of Thought
Some Maliki scholars allow women to recite and even read the Quran without restriction during menstruation, as long as there is a need, such as teaching, studying, or maintaining spiritual connection.
3. Contemporary Scholars
Modern scholars emphasize that women should not feel disconnected from Allah during their periods. Many support the use of Quran apps, translations, and tafseer books as a means of staying spiritually engaged.
Alternative Ways to Engage with the Quran During Periods
Even if direct recitation from the Mushaf is restricted, there are many ways women can still benefit:
Listening to Quran Recitation – Women can listen to Quran via audio apps, YouTube, or live recitations.
Reading Quran Translation & Tafseer – At Quraan.pk, you can explore a wide collection of Maulana Maududi’s Quran translation and other tafseer editions.
👉 Browse our Maududi Quran Translation Collection.Studying Tajweed Rules – Use this time to learn Tajweed so you can improve your recitation later.
👉 Check our Tajweed Quran Editions.Dua and Dhikr – Women are always allowed to remember Allah through dhikr, tasbeeh, and dua.
Digital Quran Apps – Reading through phones or tablets is widely accepted by scholars.
Emotional & Spiritual Connection with the Quran
Periods should not be seen as a time of spiritual disconnection. Rather, they are a natural part of a woman’s life. By focusing on:
Quran translations
Islamic books
Tafseer studies
Listening to recitation
…women can continue to nurture their faith and relationship with Allah.
At Quraan.pk, we provide beautifully designed Qurans like the Rainbow Quran, Velvet Quran, and Leather-bound Quran editions, which make studying and gifting the Quran even more special.
👉 Explore our Rainbow Quran Collection for a colorful and engaging study experience.
Women and the Quran – Staying Spiritually Engaged
It’s important for women to remember that Allah does not burden anyone beyond their capacity (Quran 2:286). Periods are not a punishment but a natural process. The Quran is a source of healing, guidance, and mercy – and women are encouraged to remain connected with it in every way possible.
For women who are memorizing the Quran (Hifz), digital Qurans and audio recitations are powerful tools that help them continue their journey without interruption.
👉 Explore our Holy Quran for Hifz Students collection for simple text and Tajweed Qurans.
Recommended Quran Editions for Women at Quraan.pk
At Quraan.pk, we provide a wide variety of Qurans perfect for women to use during and after periods:
Rainbow Quran 7 Color – Beautifully designed for learning and gifts.
Velvet & Leather Quran Editions – Luxurious covers, perfect as wedding or Ramadan gifts.
Maulana Maududi’s Tafseer & Translation – Authentic Islamic writings to deepen understanding.
Tajweed Qurans – For those improving their recitation skills.
Final Thoughts – Can We Read Quran in Periods?
So, can we read Quran in periods?
Touching the Mushaf – Generally not allowed.
Reciting from memory – Permissible.
Using apps & translations – Widely allowed.
Listening to Quran – Always encouraged.
The key is to stay connected with Allah and His Book even during this natural state. With the help of digital Qurans, tafseer books, and translations, women can maintain their spiritual journey without interruption.
👉 Visit Quraan.pk to explore a wide range of Holy Quran editions, Maududi translations, Tajweed Qurans, and gift collections designed to make your Quranic journey meaningful and beautiful.
FAQs
Most scholars say no, but you can use a cloth or gloves. Digital Qurans are generally permissible.
Yes, you can read translations and tafseer, as they are not considered the Mushaf itself.
Yes, memorization from listening or digital apps is allowed.
Yes, listening is always permissible.