Reading the Qur’an from an electronic device offers a practical solution for women who wish to maintain their spiritual connection during menstruation without violating the rules regarding physical purity. As technology evolves, questions arise about whether holding a phone carries the same restrictions as a physical Mushaf and whether traditional remedies like reciting over water are valid.

Islamic scholars have clarified the permissibility of digital recitation and the validity of using water for spiritual healing (Ruqyah).

Reading via Screens

If a woman’s purpose for recitation during her monthly cycle is to remember Allah (Dhikr) or to review verses she has memorized, it is permissible to read from a screen.

  • No Touching: The primary restriction for a menstruating woman often concerns touching the physical pages of the Mushaf. Electronic devices (phones, tablets, computers) are not considered Mushaf; they are machines that project text. Therefore, touching the screen or the device does not equate to touching the Qur’an.
  • Intention: As long as the intention is remembrance and review, accessing the text digitally is allowed.

Reading Over Water

Regarding the practice of reciting the Qur’an over water and then drinking it or washing with it for healing:

  • The Ruling: It is permissible to recite verses of the Qur’an (such as Al-Fatihah, Al-Falaq, and An-Nas) and blow into water. This water may then be drunk or used to wash the body to seek a cure.
  • Evidence: This practice is supported by the Sunnah and the actions of the early generations (Salaf). It is narrated that the Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him) used to blow into his hands after reciting the Mu’awwidhatayn and wipe his body during illness. Scholars confirm that blowing into water falls under the permissible forms of Ruqyah.
  • Correct Intention: One must believe that the cure comes from Allah through the blessings of the Qur’an, not from the saliva or breath of the person reciting (unless it was the Prophet himself). Reciting with the intent of seeking blessings from the words of Allah is a legitimate and beneficial means of treatment.