The ruling regarding reading Quran on a computer or smartphone while menstruating is a frequent question among Muslim women who wish to maintain their spiritual connection during their monthly cycle. While there are strict rules regarding the physical Mushaf (bound copy of the Qur’an), modern technology offers different dimensions to these rulings.
Additionally, questions often arise regarding family dynamics, such as whether a girl raised by a guardian can adopt his surname. Islamic law provides clear distinctions for both issues.
The Ruling on Digital Recitation
Scholars generally agree that a menstruating woman is not permitted to touch the physical Mushaf directly without a barrier. However, reading from a digital screen is treated differently.
- Permissibility: A woman is permitted to look at the Qur’an on a computer screen, tablet, or phone and read it with her eyes or heart.
- Touching the Device: Since the device itself is not a Mushaf, touching the keyboard, mouse, or screen is permissible.
- Recitation: Prominent scholars state that it is permissible to listen to the Qur’an and repeat verses to prevent forgetting what one has memorized or for the purpose of learning.
Naming Adopted Children
Regarding a child who is raised by a family other than her biological parents, Islam establishes specific boundaries to preserve lineage.
Even if a girl has been raised by a guardian since childhood, she is not allowed to take his surname. Islam mandates that lineage be preserved and attributed to the biological father.
Allah Almighty commands in the Qur’an:
“Call them by [the names of] their fathers; it is more just in the sight of Allah…” (Quran 33:5, Saheeh International)
Therefore, the girl should retain her biological father’s name. It is best for her to address her guardian with a term of respect, such as “Uncle,” rather than “Father,” to maintain the distinction between biological lineage and guardianship.
