Touching the Quran

Common Misinterpretation

Many traditional scholars interpret this verse to mean that no one is allowed to physically touch the Quran unless they are physically clean or have performed ablution (Wuḍūʾ). This interpretation has led to the widespread belief that the Quran cannot be handled by those who are ritually impure.

However, this understanding is inconsistent with the Quran’s linguistic context and its overall message. A closer look reveals a deeper meaning.

The Word "Yamassuhu"

The key to understanding 56:79 lies in the Arabic word "yamassuhu", which is often translated as "touch." However, "yamass" in Quranic usage frequently refers to something more abstract than physical touch. It denotes reaching, attaining, or being affected by something, as illustrated in other verses:

Here, tamsaskum does not refer to a physical touch but rather to experiencing or attaining good.

Here again, yamsas does not imply physical contact but being affected by harm.

In the same manner, in 56:79, yamassuhu refers to grasping, comprehending, or attaining the blessings of the Quran, not physically touching it.

The Purity Mentioned

The phrase "except the purified" (al-muṭahharūn) has been misinterpreted to mean physical cleanliness. However, the Quran defines purity primarily in terms of spiritual devotion and sincerity of worship:

Purity, as described here, is about ikhlaas (sincerity) and dedicating one’s worship to God alone. Those described as "mukhlaseen" (the purified) are those who worship God without associating partners with Him (12:24, 15:40, 37:74).

Whereas we can observe the following verse describing the impure and their prohibition for entering the Masjid Al-Harām:

Najas refers to impurity due to evil deeds, wickedness, and associating partners with God.

Thus, 56:79 implies that only those who are spiritually pure and devoted to God can truly grasp and benefit from the Quran’s guidance.

Quranic Evidence Against the Physical Interpretation

The Quran contains clear legislation when it comes to rituals like Wuḍūʾ (ablution). The command for Wuḍūʾ is explicitly linked to Salat (prayer) and not to handling the Quran:

The absence of a similar command for handling the Quran confirms that no such requirement exists.

Statement of Fact, Not Legislation

The context of 56:79 in Sūrah Al-Waqi’ah reveals it to be a statement of fact rather than a legislative command. The verse simply highlights that the Quran's blessings and guidance are only accessible to those who are spiritually purified and devoted to God. This is consistent with the Quran's recurring emphasis on sincerity and piety.

For example:

Here, the Quran's guidance is for those who are "muttaqīn" (God-conscious), not for the physically clean.

Misinterpretation’s Impact

The misinterpretation of 56:79 has led to:

Unnecessary Rituals: Many Muslims refrain from touching the Quran without ablution, despite no Quranic evidence for this requirement.

Exclusivity: It creates barriers to accessing the Quran, especially for new learners and non-Muslims.

Conclusion

The correct understanding of 56:79 is:

"None can grasp it (its blessings and guidance) except the purified (those devoted to God alone)."

This verse emphasizes spiritual purity rather than physical cleanliness. The Quran’s guidance is reserved for those who approach it with sincere hearts, dedicated to God alone. Muslims should focus on the spiritual message of the Quran rather than adding unnecessary restrictions that are not found in the Quran itself.