What is the linguistic meaning of the term 'Quru'' in jurisprudence?

General Chapter

Al-Mughni

Book of Waiting Periods ('Iddah)

Book 44 · Issue 2 · Bab 1

Open in Qurani

Primary text

The term 'Al-Quru'' is an equivocal noun in Arabic, applying both to the state of menstruation (hayd) and the state of purity (tuhur) between menstruations. Evidence supporting its meaning as time (waqt) is found in poetry, such as the line referring to the time when the winds blow for its appointed time. Furthermore, the Prophet's saying, 'Leave the prayer during the days of your quru', refers to menstruation. However, other usages, such as the poet's reference to the honor resulting from the 'quru' of women, are understood to mean the period of purity.

Supporting text

The usage of 'Quru'' in the language of the Sharia is preponderantly understood to mean menstruation, as evidenced by the command to leave prayer during the days of 'quru'' and the instruction given to Fatimah bint Abi Hubaysh regarding when to refrain from and resume prayer.