What is the ruling on a menstruating woman or a person in a state of major ritual impurity (Junuub) reciting the Quran?
Chapter on the Obligation of Purification
Al-Mughni
Book of Purification
Primary text
The ruling concerning the menstruating woman (Hayd) and the person in major impurity (Junuub) regarding Quran recitation is derived from narrations. The stronger evidence indicates prohibition for both. Ali (RA) reported that nothing prevented the Prophet (PBUH) from reciting the Quran except for major ritual impurity (Junabah). Another narration states: 'The menstruating woman and the Junub shall not recite anything from the Quran.' If this prohibition is established for the Junub, it is more applicable to the Hayd because her state of impurity is more stringent, as indicated by the prohibition of intercourse, the invalidation of the fast, and the exemption from prayer, while sharing other rulings.
Supporting text
Some scholars permit recitation based on specific verses related to travel, such as {Subhanalladhi sakhkhara lana hadha} (Quran 43:13) and {Wa qul Rabbi anzilni munzalan mubarak an} (Quran 23:29), as stated by Al-Awza'i. Ibn Abbas permitted recitation upon returning. Sa'id ibn al-Musayyab permitted it because the Quran is already inside her. Malik made a distinction, allowing the menstruating woman to recite but not the Junub, due to the prolonged nature of menstruation potentially causing forgetfulness.