Is it permissible to recite the Qur’an by heart when a Muslim is in a state of major ritual impurity (janabah)?
It is impermissible for a person in a state of ritual impurity (junub) to recite the Qur'an, whether from memory or from the Mushaf (physical copy of the Qur'an), due to what was narrated by Ahmad and the compilers of the Sunan from Ali (may Allah be pleased with him), who said: "The Messenger of Allah (peace be upon him) used to teach us the Qur'an as long as he was not in a state of ritual impurity." Scholars have, however, made an exception for reciting one or two verses for the purpose of seeking refuge (ta'awwudh) or for evidence, but not for the purpose of recitation. Imam Malik said: "A person in a state of ritual impurity (junub) does not recite the Qur'an except for one or two verses when going to sleep, or for seeking refuge from fright or the like, but not with the intention of recitation."
Summarized from the full answer at Ftawy · reviewed Sep 2, 2026
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