Ruling on Holding the Qur’an Behind the Imam in Taraweeh – Detailed ExplanationSource: Fatāwā Arkān-e-Islām
❖ Question
Is it permissible to hold the Qur’an in hand while praying behind the Imam in Taraweeh?
❖ Answer
Alḥamdulillāh, waṣ-ṣalātu was-salāmu ʿalā Rasūlillāh, ammā baʿd!
If a person intends to hold the Qur’an in hand and follow along with the Imam during Taraweeh, then such an action goes against multiple Sunnahs. For several reasons, it becomes necessary to avoid this practice, which can be summarized as follows:
Reasons for the Prohibition of Holding the Qur’an While Praying:
① Abandoning the Sunnah Position in Qiyām (Standing):
◈ When holding the Qur’an, one cannot place the right hand over the left while standing — which is the Sunnah method.
② Unnecessary Movements:
◈ Opening, closing, and placing the Qur’an under the arm or in the pocket are unnecessary actions that are inappropriate during prayer.
③ Loss of Focus in Prayer:
◈ These actions divert the worshipper’s attention away from prayer, preventing full concentration.
④ Not Looking at the Place of Prostration:
◈ Holding the Qur’an prevents one from looking at the place of prostration, which is Sunnah and the best practice.
⑤ Reduction in Humility and Submission (Khushūʿ):
◈ If the heart is not fully present, the worshipper may even forget that they are in prayer. In contrast, following the Sunnah by placing the right hand over the left and lowering the gaze toward the place of prostration maintains humility and helps the worshipper remain fully aware of both the prayer and the Imam’s leadership.
ھٰذا ما عندي والله أعلم بالصواب
This is what I hold, and Allah knows best what is correct.
