❀ Islamic Ruling on Giving the Qur’an Translation to a Non-Muslim ❀
Source: Fatawa of the Scholars of Hadith, Kitab al-Salah, Volume 1
Is it permissible to give a non-Muslim a printed copy of the Qur’an without the Arabic text?
Yes, it is permissible to present a translation or tafsir of the Noble Qur’an to a non-Muslim as a gift, provided that the recipient acknowledges the sanctity of divine scriptures and shows them due respect. The following points clarify this ruling:
Giving a non-Muslim a translation or tafsir of the Qur’an is allowed with the intention of Da'wah, so that he may read it and be guided toward the truth.
The Prophet Muhammad ﷺ sent a letter to Heraclius, the Emperor of Rome, which included the Qur’anic verse:
"قُلْ يَا أَهْلَ الْكِتَابِ تَعَالَوْا إِلَىٰ كَلِمَةٍ سَوَاءٍ بَيْنَنَا وَبَيْنَكُمْ"
Say: O People of the Book! Come to a word that is just between us and you...
This incident serves as evidence that conveying the teachings of the Qur’an to non-Muslims is permissible for the sake of inviting them to Islam.
✔ Translation and Tafsir Only:
It is not appropriate to give a copy of the Qur’an containing only the Arabic text to a non-Muslim, due to concerns about possible disrespect or mishandling.
✔ Better Understanding and Respect:
A translated or explanatory copy of the Qur’an is preferable, as it makes comprehension easier and reduces the risk of dishonor toward the sacred text.
✔ State of Purity:
If the non-Muslim is in a state of impurity, even a translated version of the Qur’an should not be given. Cleanliness and respect are key considerations.
It is permissible to give a non-Muslim a translation or tafsir of the Qur’an for the purpose of Da'wah and guidance, but giving the Arabic text alone is not suitable due to the risk of disrespect. This approach aligns with the Sunnah of the Prophet ﷺ and reflects the correct method of conveying the message of Islam to others.
وَاللّٰهُ أَعْلَمُ بِالصَّوَابِ
Source: Fatawa of the Scholars of Hadith, Kitab al-Salah, Volume 1
❖ Question:
Is it permissible to give a non-Muslim a printed copy of the Qur’an without the Arabic text?
❖ Answer:
Yes, it is permissible to present a translation or tafsir of the Noble Qur’an to a non-Muslim as a gift, provided that the recipient acknowledges the sanctity of divine scriptures and shows them due respect. The following points clarify this ruling:
❖ Islamic Principles:
✔ Permissibility for the Purpose of Da'wah:
Giving a non-Muslim a translation or tafsir of the Qur’an is allowed with the intention of Da'wah, so that he may read it and be guided toward the truth.
✔ Practice of the Prophet ﷺ:
The Prophet Muhammad ﷺ sent a letter to Heraclius, the Emperor of Rome, which included the Qur’anic verse:
"قُلْ يَا أَهْلَ الْكِتَابِ تَعَالَوْا إِلَىٰ كَلِمَةٍ سَوَاءٍ بَيْنَنَا وَبَيْنَكُمْ"
Say: O People of the Book! Come to a word that is just between us and you...
This incident serves as evidence that conveying the teachings of the Qur’an to non-Muslims is permissible for the sake of inviting them to Islam.
❖ Conditions and Guidelines:
✔ Translation and Tafsir Only:
It is not appropriate to give a copy of the Qur’an containing only the Arabic text to a non-Muslim, due to concerns about possible disrespect or mishandling.
✔ Better Understanding and Respect:
A translated or explanatory copy of the Qur’an is preferable, as it makes comprehension easier and reduces the risk of dishonor toward the sacred text.
✔ State of Purity:
If the non-Muslim is in a state of impurity, even a translated version of the Qur’an should not be given. Cleanliness and respect are key considerations.
❖ Summary:
It is permissible to give a non-Muslim a translation or tafsir of the Qur’an for the purpose of Da'wah and guidance, but giving the Arabic text alone is not suitable due to the risk of disrespect. This approach aligns with the Sunnah of the Prophet ﷺ and reflects the correct method of conveying the message of Islam to others.
وَاللّٰهُ أَعْلَمُ بِالصَّوَابِ
