❀ Question ❀
Is it permissible to burn worn-out pages of the Qur'an for the sake of preservation and respect? Please explain in detail in light of the Qur’an and Sunnah.✔ Islamic Ruling on Burning Worn-Out Qur'anic Pages
Yes, it is permissible to burn the worn-out pages of the Qur'an when done with the intent of safeguarding its sanctity. If the pages become so deteriorated that recitation becomes difficult or there is a risk of disrespect, Islamic teachings allow for their respectful disposal—including burning, provided it is done with proper care and reverence.✔ Historical Precedent: The Era of ʿUthmān رضي الله عنه
During the caliphate of ʿUthmān ibn ʿAffān رضي الله عنه, official standardized copies of the Qur'an were prepared. Once these copies were distributed, he ordered that all non-standardized copies be burned to preserve the uniformity of the Qur'anic text.As recorded in Ṣaḥīḥ al-Bukhārī (Hadith 4987):
"All manuscripts and fragments of the Qur'an that differ from the official copy must be burned."
This incident is a clear precedent for burning Qur'anic material if it serves the purpose of protecting and honoring the Qur'an.
❀ Summary ❀
◉ Burning worn-out Qur'anic pages is permissible when done for the purpose of respect and preservation.◉ This action should be carried out in a dignified and clean manner to avoid any form of disrespect.
◉ The practice of Caliph ʿUthmān رضي الله عنه serves as a valid precedent for this method of respectful disposal.
The intention behind such an action must always be to uphold the honor and sanctity of the Qur’an and to prevent any form of degradation.