Many sisters wonder if it’s necessary to wear a hijab when reading the Quran. The simple answer? Yes, she can read it without a hijab. Let’s explore the scholarly opinions and etiquettes that guide this practice.
No Clear Obligation for Hijab During Quran Recitation
A woman is allowed to read the Quran without wearing the hijab. There’s no explicit evidence in the Quran or Sunnah that obligates wearing the hijab specifically for Quran recitation.
That said, it is recommended (but not required) to wear the hijab out of respect for the words of Allah. This act reflects good manners and a sense of reverence when engaging with the sacred text.
Allah says:
﴿ذَٰلِكَ وَمَن يُعَظِّمْ شَعَائِرَ اللَّهِ فَإِنَّهَا مِن تَقْوَى الْقُلُوبِ﴾
“That [is so]. And whoever honors the symbols of Allah – indeed, it is from the piety of hearts.”
(Surah Al-Hajj, 22:32)
Even some companions of the Prophet ﷺ, like Ibn Abbas and ‘Urwah, considered adorning oneself (like wearing hijab) while reciting the Quran as part of honoring the Book of Allah. So while it’s not a must, it’s certainly a beautiful practice.
Bonus Wisdom: It’s not a bid’ah (innovation) to wear the hijab while reading the Quran. But it may become an innovation if someone believes it’s required as an act of worship.
What About Sujood at-Tilawah Without Hijab?
Now, what if you hear or recite a verse of prostration (سجدة التلاوة)? Do you need hijab for that?
Well… scholars differed.
Two Main Opinions:
- Some scholars equate Sujood at-Tilawah with prayer. So they say women should wear hijab, be in wudhu, face the Qiblah, and cover the ‘awrah (body).
- Others (like Ibn Taymiyyah) say it’s not like prayer and doesn’t require wudhu or hijab.
But here’s the safest route:
If possible, wear hijab during Sujood at-Tilawah—not because it’s obligatory, but to avoid any scholarly disagreement.
Etiquettes of Reading the Quran
Reading the Quran is not like reading any other book. It’s the direct word of Allah. So while hijab may not be mandatory, there are many beautiful etiquettes to keep in mind when reciting:
1. Sincerity (Ikhlas):
Read only to seek Allah’s pleasure, not fame, not likes, not status.
﴿وَمَا أُمِرُوا إِلَّا لِيَعْبُدُوا اللَّهَ مُخْلِصِينَ لَهُ الدِّينَ﴾
“And they were not commanded except to worship Allah, [being] sincere to Him in religion…”
(Surah Al-Bayyinah, 98:5)
2. Purification:
Wudhu is recommended, not required. You can still read the Quran without it.
3. Clean Mouth:
Use a miswak or brush your teeth. The Prophet ﷺ said:
“السِّواكُ مطهرةٌ للفمِ، مرضاةٌ للرَّبِّ”
“Siwak purifies the mouth and pleases the Lord.”
(Sahih al-Nasa’i)
4. Clean Place:
Preferably read in a clean area like a masjid. But you can read on transport or at home too—just try not to be distracted.
5. Face the Qiblah:
It’s not a must, but it helps with focus and respect.
6. Start Right:
Always say:
“أعوذ بالله من الشيطان الرجيم”
“I seek refuge with Allah from the accursed devil.”
(Surah An-Nahl, 16:98)
If you start from the beginning of a surah, add:
“بسم الله الرحمن الرحيم”
“In the name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful.”
7. Recite Slowly (Tarteel):
Take your time. Reflect on meanings. Let it reach your heart.
﴿الَّذِينَ آتَيْنَاهُمُ الْكِتَابَ يَتْلُونَهُ حَقَّ تِلَاوَتِهِ﴾
“Those to whom We gave the Scripture recite it with its true recital…”
(Surah Al-Baqarah, 2:121)
8. Stay Focused & Emotionally Present:
Be in the moment. If you feel sleepy or distracted, pause. It’s better to read with presence than rush through.
9. Best Times to Read:
Early morning (after Fajr), late night (Tahajjud time), or any quiet time when your heart is awake.
Quick Summary
| Action | Hijab Required? | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Reading Quran | ❌ Not required | Recommended for respect, not obligatory. |
| Sujood at-Tilawah (prostration) | ✅ Best to wear | Safer to wear hijab, though some scholars allow without. |
| Touching Mushaf (physical Quran) | ✅ Yes | Hijab + wudhu preferred as per majority opinion. |
A Gentle Next Step…
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