Menstruation and Prayer
In the realm of Islamic jurisprudence, questions often arise regarding specific scenarios and the rulings that govern them. Menstruation and Prayer aims to address key issues related to menstruation, prayer, and the use of water in cleansing. Offering insights and guidance on these important matters.
Menstruation and the Use of Water
Question: A Concern About Using Water During Menstruation
Sometimes, individuals refrain from using water for personal hygiene during menstruation due to concerns about potential harm. What is the Shariah ruling on this matter?
Answer: In Islamic tradition, water is commonly used for purification. However, it is important to note that during certain circumstances, such as menstruation, there are alternatives that can be employed without compromising cleanliness and adherence to Shariah principles.
Instead of water, clean handkerchiefs, towels, or solid and clean objects like wood or stone can be used to remove impurities. These alternatives should be used three or more times to ensure effective cleansing. It’s essential to understand that this method isn’t exclusive to a specific individual but can be embraced by any Muslim, be it a man or a woman.
This practice finds its roots in the teachings of the Holy Prophet, as narrated by Hazrat Aisha. According to the Prophet’s guidance, when cleansing after using the restroom, three stones are sufficient for purification. Additionally, Hazrat Salman Farsi conveyed the comprehensive nature of the Prophet’s teachings, which encompassed even the etiquette of speech and communication. The guidance emphasizes the importance of using an adequate number of stones for purification.
Menstruation Inside the Mosque: A Delicate Situation
Question: A Woman’s Dilemma Inside the Mosque
Imagine a scenario where a woman becomes menstruated inside the Prophet’s Mosque and remains within the mosque until her family completes their prayers. Is this permissible, or does it entail any guilt?
Answer: The matter at hand revolves around the sanctity of the mosque and the need for individuals who are menstruating, in a postpartum state, or pregnant to adhere to specific rules.
If it’s impossible for a woman in such a condition to leave the mosque alone, there is no issue in this scenario. However, if she can leave the mosque independently, it becomes necessary to do so promptly. Remaining within the mosque while menstruating, in a postpartum state, or pregnant is not permissible and is considered unlawful.
This ruling aligns with Allah’s guidance, which prohibits entering the state of Janabat (impurity requiring a bath) unless one has performed the obligatory purification. The Prophet further emphasized the sanctity of the mosque, asserting that neither menstruating women nor those in a state of Janabat can make the mosque permissible for prayer.
Engaging with Islamic Texts During Menstruation
Question: Reading Islamic Texts During Menstruation
During menstruation, women often wonder if they can engage with Islamic texts, including books of tafsir (Quranic exegesis). Is this permissible, and what is the Shariah perspective?
Answer: The question of engaging with Islamic texts during menstruation, especially those containing Quranic verses, is a valid concern for many women. According to the prevailing opinion of scholars, there is no issue with women who are menstruating or in a postpartum state reading books of commentary (tafsir). Furthermore, they can recite the Quran without physically touching it.
It’s crucial to clarify that the restriction on reciting the Quran pertains to individuals in a state of Janabat. In such a state, a person cannot recite the Quran without performing ablution. However, those who are menstruating do not face the same restriction. The Prophet’s practices and teachings support this stance, emphasizing that only individuals in a state of Janabat are prohibited from reciting even a single verse of the Quran.
Reading Quranic Verses in Prayer Books
Question: Quranic Verses in Prayer Books During Hajj
During the sacred pilgrimage of Hajj, can menstruating women read books containing prayers, even if these books include Quranic verses? What does Shariah say about this?
Answer: Shariah rulings related to menstruation and postpartum states offer nuanced insights into how women can engage with Islamic texts, even those containing Quranic verses. During Hajj, menstruating and postpartum women are permitted to read books containing supplications. Additionally, they can recite the Quran without touching it.
It is crucial to highlight that there is no clear and authoritative text. That expressly prohibits menstruating women from reciting the Quran. The hadiths that address this matter pertain specifically to individuals in a state of Janabat. This distinction exists because Janabat is typically a short-lived condition, and immediate purification is possible. In contrast, menstruation and postpartum states extend over several days. Necessitating a more flexible approach to enable women to engage with the Quran and its teachings.
This perspective aligns with the teachings of the Prophet. And ensures that women do not miss out on the spiritual rewards and knowledge that the Quran imparts.
Understanding these Shariah rulings provides clarity for individuals navigating these circumstances. It empowers women to maintain their connection with Islamic texts and practices. While adhering to the guidelines set forth by Islamic jurisprudence.
More Fact: Order of Riot