Is the hiring (leasing) of a Mushaf (copy of the Quran) permissible?
General Chapter
Al-Mughni
Book of Leasing
Primary text
There are differing opinions regarding the permissibility of hiring out a copy of the Mushaf. The predominant view holds that leasing is invalid, based on the premise that selling the Mushaf is invalid due to venerating the Word of Allah and His Book from being subjected to monetary exchange and vulgarization through price or rent. The second view holds that leasing is permissible. This is the opinion of Al-Shafi'i, supported by the reasoning that since lending (borrowing for use) is permissible for a lawful benefit, leasing must also be permissible, just like other books.
Supporting text
The implied view of Abu Hanifa is that leasing is not permissible. The reasoning provided is that hiring is only for looking at the Mushaf, which does not warrant a lease contract; this is evidenced by the invalidity of leasing a ceiling for mere viewing of its work or pictures, or leasing wax for adornment. Furthermore, the Hanafi position argues that the use is limited to mere observation, which does not justify compensation.