Can you read Quran without wudu? Phones, screens and the mushaf
The short answer: you can recite the Quran from memory without wudu, but most scholars say you need wudu to touch a printed mushaf. Reading on a phone is more relaxed. Here is what the major schools of Islamic law say, in plain English.
Last updated: 1 October 2026
Reciting from memory
Scholars agree that someone without wudu (in a state of minor impurity) may recite the Quran from memory. You can recite in the car, while cooking or while walking. After major impurity (janabah), the majority of scholars say you should not recite until you have had a full bath (ghusl), though you may still make dhikr and dua.
Touching the mushaf
The majority of scholars, across the four Sunni schools of law, say you should have wudu to touch a printed mushaf. They base this on the verse "none touch it except the purified" (56:79) and on the Prophet's ﷺ letter to Amr ibn Hazm. A minority of scholars hold that wudu is recommended rather than required.
Books that contain the Quran alongside much more text, such as a translation or a tafseer, are treated more leniently by many scholars.
Reading on a phone or screen
Many contemporary scholars say that a phone, tablet or computer showing the Quran is not a mushaf, so you may touch the device without wudu. The text is on the screen only while it is displayed. Some scholars still encourage wudu out of respect, and that is always the better choice when you can.
This matters for learners: if you are practising from an app or joining an online lesson, you can read from your screen. See our guide to Quran apps for beginners.
What the schools of thought say
| Question | Majority view | Other views |
|---|---|---|
| Reciting from memory without wudu | Allowed | None significant |
| Touching a mushaf without wudu | Not allowed (Hanafi, Maliki, Shafi‘i, Hanbali) | A minority: recommended, not required |
| Reading on a phone without wudu | Many contemporary scholars: allowed | Some: wudu preferred |
| Reciting after janabah (before ghusl) | Not allowed | Some allow a small amount, such as a verse for dua |
This page summarises common views for general guidance; it is not a fatwa. For your own situation, ask a scholar you trust, and see our disclaimer. To learn how to make wudu and pray, read how to pray salah or join our Islamic studies lessons. See also our online Quran classes.
Frequently asked questions
Can I read the Quran without wudu?
Yes, from memory. Scholars agree you may recite the Quran from memory without wudu. Touching a printed mushaf is different: most scholars say it requires wudu.
Can I read the Quran on my phone without wudu?
Many contemporary scholars say yes, because a phone or screen is not a mushaf. Some scholars prefer that you still make wudu out of respect. Either way, wudu is always better.
Can children touch the Quran without wudu?
Many scholars allow young children who are learning to handle the mushaf without wudu, because requiring it every time would make learning very hard. Teach them wudu as early as you can.
Can I read the Quran during my period?
Scholars differ. Many say a woman should not recite the Quran during her period, while others, notably in the Maliki school, allow it, especially for teachers, students and those revising hifz. Follow the scholars you trust.
Can I use gloves or a cloth to touch the mushaf?
Many scholars allow holding the mushaf with a separate cloth or cover when you do not have wudu, for example to move it.
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