Accidentally Dropping the Quran: Understanding the Islamic Perspective

Is There Expiation for Dropping the Quran? A Guide to Understanding the Islamic View

Expiation for Dropping the Quran?

While it is not common among men, it is quite prevalent among women that if the Quran accidentally falls, it is considered a major sin. This causes a lot of worry about how to rectify this mistake. Since it is the month of Ramadan, Quran recitation is common, and this concern is being raised from various quarters.

Understand that the Quran is the holy word of Allah, and it is obligatory to respect and honor it. Disrespecting or desecrating it is forbidden and haram, and in some cases, its desecration can lead to disbelief. Therefore, one must be very careful when handling, giving, taking, lifting, or placing the Quran.

However, if the Quran accidentally slips from the hand and falls, there is no sin, and no expiation is required. Let’s understand this issue through a couple of hadiths.

Abdullah bin Abbas (may Allah be pleased with him) said that the Prophet (peace be upon him) said: "Allah has pardoned my Ummah for mistakes, forgetfulness, and what they are forced to do under duress." (Sahih Ibn Majah: 1677)

Similarly, in a hadith narrated by Ibn Abbas (may Allah be pleased with him) regarding the virtues of the last two verses of Surah Al-Baqarah, it is mentioned:

"Our Lord, do not impose blame upon us if we forget or make a mistake." (Surah Al-Baqarah, Ayah 286). Allah said: "I have done so." (Sahih Muslim: 126)

From the above two hadiths, it is clear that if a person makes a mistake or forgets, Allah forgives it. If the Quran falls by mistake, it is forgiven by Allah. Moreover, neither Allah nor His Messenger (peace be upon him) has prescribed any expiation for the Quran falling. Therefore, we can say that there is no accountability for this act before Allah, and no expiation is required. If one seeks forgiveness, it is better, and for peace of mind, giving charity to the needy is also good.

 Maqbool Ahmed Salafi / Jeddah