Some information has been adapted from the following sources: Closed Doors and Opened Eyes: Spirituality for the Non-Fasting by Shazia Ahmad & A Muslim Day in Ramadan – Morning till Evening by Sh. Riad Quarzazi. Previously published in Sisters Magazine August 2011 Issue
While others will be busy in acts of worship such as fasting, praying, reading Qur’an, etc., most women will spend a portion of Ramadan in the state of menstruation (or postnatal bleeding), leaving them unable to participate in the aforementioned activities.
It is not easy to stay positive at times like these, especially when we see those around us rushing to masaajid for taraweeh prayers, spending time in ‘itikaaf and reciting the Qur’an. This can lead us to feeling deprived of the reward of this blessed month, and often this feeling ends up decreasing our spirituality rather than increasing it.
Keep supporting MuslimMatters for the sake of Allah
Alhamdulillah, we're at over 850 supporters. Help us get to 900 supporters this month. All it takes is a small gift from a reader like you to keep us going, for just $2 / month.
The Prophet (SAW) has taught us the best of deeds are those that done consistently, even if they are small.
Click here to support MuslimMatters with a monthly donation of $2 per month. Set it and collect blessings from Allah (swt) for the khayr you're supporting without thinking about it.
Our menstrual cycles (or postnatal bleeding) are a part of Allah subhaana wa ta’alaa‘s creation and something that is ordained by Him. Allah subhaana wa ta’alaa tells us in the Qur’an that “He has created us in the best of molds” [At-Teen:4]. We are also told that Allah has “appointed a due proportion” [At-Talaq:2-3] for everything and that “for every matter there is an appointed time given” [Ar-Rad:38]. [1] Thus, to complain about it would be to question the Wisdom of Allah subhaana wa ta’alaa. This is not anything to feel sad or inconvenienced about, but rather it should be accepted as part of the Divine Wisdom.
This same message was conveyed to us by Ayesha radi Allahu ‘anha via the hadith of the Prophet sal Allahu alayhi wa sallam.
Ayesha narrates that, “We set out with the sole intention of performing Hajj and when we reached Sarif, my menses began. The Messenger of Allah sal Allahu alayhi wa sallam came to me while I was crying and asked, ‘What is the matter with you? Has your menses started?’ I replied, ‘Yes.’ He said, ‘This is something which Allah has destined for the daughter of Adam.’” (Al-Hakim)
Islam is the straight path that leads to the pleasure of Allah subhanaa wa ta’ala and ultimate success in the aakhirah. However, praise be to Allah, the path of Islam is broad, i.e. there is a huge variety of good deeds one can do to come closer to Allah subhaana wa ta’aala. Likewise, there are many other ways of achieving spirituality while we are on our menses (or going through postnatal bleeding) besides salaah, siyaam and ‘itikaaf. This was exemplified for us through the practice of the wife of the Prophet sal Allahu alayhi wa sallam.
Narrated Maimuna, the wife of the Prophet sal Allahu alayhi wa sallam, “During my menses, I never prayed, but used to sit on the mat beside the mosque of Allah’s Apostle…” (Bukhari)
Here are a few practical suggestions of good deeds that a Muslimah can do while she is menstruating or has postnatal bleeding.
At the time of the adhaan:
- Repeat after the adhaan
- Make du’a for the intercession of the Prophet sal Allahu alayhi wa sallam after the adhaan
- Allaahumma Rabba haathihid-da ‘watit-taammati wassalaatil-qaa’imati, ‘aati Muhammadanil-waseelata walfadheelata, wab ‘ath-hu maqaamam-mahmoodanil-lathee wa’adtahu, [‘innaka laa tukhliful-mee’aad] (O Allah, Lord of this perfect call and established prayer. Grant Muhammad the intercession and favor, and raise him to the honored station You have promised him, [verily You do not neglect promises]). [Reference: Bukhari & Bayhaqi]
- Make du’a between the adhaan and iqaama. Invocation during this time is not rejected.
When you wake up:
- “Alhamdu lillaahil-lathee ‘ahyaanaa ba’da maa ‘amaatanaa wa’ilayhin-nushoor.” (Praise is to Allah Who gives us life after He has caused us to die and to Him is the return.) [Reference: Bukhari]
- “Laa ‘illaha ‘illallahu wahdahu la shareeka lahu, lahul-mulku wa lahul-hamdu, wa Huwa ‘alaa kulli shay’in Qadeer Subhaanallahi, walhamdu lillaahi, wa laa ‘ilaha ‘illallahu, wallaahu ‘akbar, wa laa hawla wa laa Quwwata ‘illaa billaahil-‘Aliyyil-‘Adheem, Rabbighfir lee.” (There is none worth of worship but Allah alone, Who has no partner, His is the dominion and to Him belongs all praise, and He is able to do all things. Glory is to Allah. Praise is to Allah. There is none worth of worship but Allah. Allah is the Most Great. There is no might and no power except by Allah’s leave, the Exalted, the Mighty. My Lord, forgive me.) [Reference: Bukhari]
In the Morning (after fajr) / Evening (before maghrib):
- “A ‘oothu billaahi minash-Shaytaanir-rajeem. Allaahu laa ‘ilaaha ‘illaa Huwal-Hayyul-Qayyoom, laa ta’khuthuhu sinatun wa laa nawm, lahu maa fis-samaawaati wa maa fil-‘ardh, man thai-lathee yashfa’u ‘indahu ‘illaa bi’ithnih, ya’lamu maa bayna ‘aydeehim wa maa khalfahum, wa laa yuheetoona bishay’im-min ‘ilmihi ‘illaa bimaa shaa’a, wasi’a kursiyyuhus samaawaati wal’ardh, wa laa ya’ooduhu hifdhuhumaa, wa Huwal- ‘Aliyyul- ‘Adheem.” (I seek refuge in Allah from Satan the outcast. – Allah! There is none worthy of worship but He, the Ever Living, the One Who sustains and protects all that exists. Neither slumber nor sleep overtakes Him. To Him belongs whatever is in the heavens and whatever is on the earth. Who is he that can intercede with Him except with His Permission? He knows what happens to them in this world, and what will happen to them in the Hereafter. And they will never encompass anything of His Knowledge except that which He wills. His Throne extends over the heavens and the earth, and He feels no fatigue in guarding and preserving them. And He is the Most High, the Most Great.) [Reference: Al Hakim]
- Recite Surat’l-Ikhlaas, Surat’l-Falaq, Surat’l-Nas – 3 times each in morning and evening [Reference: Abu Dawud & Tirmidhi]
- More morning and evening adhkaar can be found here: http://www.islamawareness.net/Dua/Fortress/027.html
- Suggested Task: Read an English translation of half a juz of the Qur’an after fajr and before maghrib to complete 1 juz a day insha’Allah
During afternoon time:
- Listen to an Islamic lecture or read an Islamic book
At maghrib time:
- Help people break their fast by offering them dates and water
- Host an iftaar for family and guests
At isha time:
- Have family circle time at home and have a member of the house recite the Qur’an to the rest of the family followed by tafseer of those ayaat
Before sleeping:
- Cup your palms together, blow gently into them and recite Surat’l-Ikhlaas, Surat’l-Falaq, and Surat’l-Nas. Then pass your hands over as much of your body as you can reach, beginning with the head and then face, then the entire front of your body. Do this three times. [Reference: Bukhari]
- Recite Ayat’l-Kursi. [Reference: Bukhari]
- Recite last 2 verses of Surat’l-Baqarah. [Reference: Bukhari]
- Recite Surah Mulk. [Reference: An Nasai]
- More on “what to say before sleeping” can be found here: http://www.islamawareness.net/Dua/Fortress/028.html
Other acts that you can do:
At the masjid:
- Shake hands with sisters and spread salaam at the masjid, especially engaging with newcomers.
- Sponsor iftaars at various masaajid if possible
- Volunteer for masjid clean up afterwards [1]
- Babysit during taraweeh so that the mothers (and everyone else!) can pray with khushu’ and concentration [1]
- Make a playlist of beautiful Qur’an recitation and du’as and distribute it at the masjid [1]
At home:
- Have a qiyaam program for other sisters at your house – prepare iftaar and suhoor for them
- Look for new converts, those who are newly practicing or people who have lost touch with the community and invite them over for iftaar and ‘Eid [1]
- Think of Eid party ideas/gifts for family, spouse, children, neighbors and begin your preparations.
In your own time:
- Memorize ayaat of the Qur’an.
- Donate – clothes, food, toys, money etc.
- Make tawbah (repentance) and shukr (gratitude)
- Memorize Allah’s names and their meanings [1]. Use them in making personal du’a.
- Visit the sick in your area or at the hospital [1].
- Always keep your tongue moist with the dhikr of Allah subhaana wa ta’aala. Say SubhanAllah, Alhamdulillah, La ilaaha illallah, Allahu Akbar and send salaams and salawaat on the Prophet sal Allahu alayhi wa sallam while cooking, cleaning, driving, etc.
I sincerely pray that this Ramadan all of us witness an increase in our spirituality and a betterment in the relationship we have with Allah subhaana wa ta’aala. May Allah allow us to witness the blessed month of Ramadan and give us the opportunity to perform acts of ibaadah that weigh heavy on the scales on the Day of Judgment, ameen.
————–
[1] These ideas were co-opted from Sr Shazia Ahmed’s article which can be found on SuhaibWebb.com.
Other posts of interests for sisters:
#Culture1 month ago
Girl Power!
August 3, 2011 at 12:38 AM
Jazakhallah Khair! :) Much needed advice to all sisters.
Kanika Aggarwal
August 5, 2011 at 10:23 AM
waiyyaki! share it with your family and friends inshaAllah :)
help :)
June 30, 2016 at 5:09 AM
i really want to fast but I am on my [periods I don’t get pain and I want to fast I don’t like missing my fasts
Sarah
August 3, 2011 at 1:39 AM
I’m glad that this is talked about. Thank you.
There’s a question that has been bugging me lately and I thought I would pose it MM and readers of this article: how does a woman manage to finish reading the Quran in the month of Ramadan if menstruation disrupts the flow of recitation? Am I correct in understanding that even if I cannot touch a physical copy of the Quran I can still recite it from a digital version?
I would very much like to know how other women manage to complete the Quran even with such a disruption. I want very much to complete the Quran in this blessed month but do not wish to transgress any limits that have been set for menstruating women.
JazakAllahuakhairan.
Mariam
August 3, 2011 at 6:41 AM
Read 1 1/4 juz everyday that you are able. You’ll finish the entire Quran in 24 days.
safoora
August 4, 2011 at 12:24 AM
Asalaamualaikum …..
u may listen to the holy “Quran” through ur MP3 player or any other digital version………. u just dont have to touch the holy “Quran”…. this is how u can manage to finish reading the holy ” Quran” in the month of Ramadan…
Kanika Aggarwal
August 5, 2011 at 10:38 AM
that is a great idea as well Mariam! jazzak Allah khair!
Carey C.
August 3, 2011 at 9:30 PM
Also, you can read an English language quran, with no Arabic script that can be touched. This is allowed, to my knowledge.
wt
August 4, 2011 at 2:56 PM
because somehow adding Roman letters to the Arabic script makes the Holy Book defiled in some way? I never understood this reasoning.
Kanika Aggarwal
August 5, 2011 at 10:41 AM
@ wt: As Muslims, we do hold the Qur’an as being sacred and to maintain the sanctity of the mushaf (a copy that contains only Arabic), we must be in wudu before we can touch it. Transliteration Qur’an is not equal to a mushaf so holding it without wudu doesnt defile it. Reciting from it is a completely different matter and you can view my response below to learn about the difference of opinion over this matter.
and Allah knows best.
salma
August 15, 2011 at 3:14 PM
When you have the Qur’an in Arabic only, it is the Word of Allah only. There are no mistakes in it. It is the same as in the Lawha al-Mahfuz, the Sacred Tablet. Once you put tafsir in it, whether in Arabic or English or any other language, then the book is not anymore the Qur’an as in Lawha al-Mahfuz. There will be some human mistakes in it and you cannot claim it is free of error. This is why there is a difference between the two books and how you handle them.
Kanika Aggarwal
August 15, 2011 at 3:46 PM
jazzak Allah khair for making this point ummousama
Kanika Aggarwal
August 5, 2011 at 10:39 AM
Carey – did you mean transliteration or English translation?
Apa
June 17, 2015 at 4:51 PM
Quran has to be read with movement of lips otherwise it is not counted by just listening on s CD player.
Basmah
August 4, 2011 at 2:06 AM
wa alaikum salam sarah
you are allowed to recite it from memory or read it from the quran such that you do not touch the text . you can do so by wearing gloves to turn the pages or read from a digital quran.
(source: http://www.islamqa.com fatwa: sheikh salih al munajjid u may read a detailed answer from this website)
Kanika Aggarwal
August 5, 2011 at 10:36 AM
Thank you for reading the article Sarah.
The issue of reciting from a digital Qur’an or from memory is one of those issues on which the scholars disagreed amongst each other. Majority of scholars do not allow a woman in her menses to recite the Qur’an. However, there is a small group of scholars who allow it and personally I find their proof/logic to be stronger than those who oppose this. I would highly suggest you to consult your local imam and ask him for his opinion in this regard inshaAllah.
you can read this discussion on islamqa to read about the difference of opinion over this matter.
and Allah knows best.
Massoud
August 11, 2011 at 4:10 AM
Insha’a Allah it is permissable for a sister in her menses to recite Qur’an and touch from the Mushaf. Please refer to the following for a detailed analysis:
http://islamworld.net/docs/uh/zara.html
Kanika Aggarwal
August 15, 2011 at 2:49 PM
Massoud: while the document you present has strong proofs to say that a woman can touch the mushaf while she is in her menses, I have to mention that there is a strong difference of opinion and it is not as black and white as the document makes it seem. All 4 major imams say it is impermissible for any person to touch the mushaf without wudu so to be fair we must mention that there is a strong difference of opinion and the readers can read the arguments of both sides and decide for themselves. or better yet, if they get bogged down by the details in this discussion then follow the opinion of an imam they trust. Allahu waalam.
Apa
June 17, 2015 at 4:53 PM
It depends which imam you follow..according to handing the touching and reading of the Quran during menses is prohibited
Pingback: A Women’s Guide to Spirituality in Ramadan during Menstruation and Postnatal … – MuslimMatters
Nazihah
August 3, 2011 at 2:41 AM
Awesome. I don’t think people realize how down a muslim woman feels during these times ordained by Allah. Thank you so much dear friend for these practical tips!
wsalam
Kanika Aggarwal
August 5, 2011 at 10:43 AM
The intention behind this article was to give hope to our dear sisters. There’s a lot we can do even when we are in our time of the month so rather than feeling down, lets get to it! :)
Falmata
July 22, 2014 at 7:41 AM
I would like to ask pls I am having fiords and I am bleeding known stop for past 11 days. Initially i menstruated for only 6 to 7 days but now I am bleeding known stop for days pls advice
Hadia
August 3, 2011 at 3:11 AM
Awesome article mA. Also, exactly what I was looking for and I found it at just the right time! Alhumdulillah! And Jazakillahu khairan.
Kanika Aggarwal
August 5, 2011 at 10:44 AM
jazzak Allah khair for taking the time out to read, Hadia!
Pingback: A Women’s Guide to Spirituality in Ramadan during Menstruation and Postnatal Bleeding | Islam Café
Zulaikho
August 3, 2011 at 12:37 PM
Jazaka llah khaeran
Sebuah Kembara
August 3, 2011 at 12:44 PM
be sure and have no doubt, He’s always close to you :)
syukran 4 such a great sharing info
Kanika Aggarwal
August 5, 2011 at 10:45 AM
jazzak Allah khair for reading :)
asiya
August 3, 2011 at 1:15 PM
assalamalaikum,just wanted to know what does islam say about fasting for lactating mothers.my baby is just 3mnths and totally dependant on milk.so what am i supposed to do regarding fasting.
thanks
xen
August 3, 2011 at 7:24 PM
walaikum salaam wa rahmatullah wa barakatu, there are different opinions – the less lenient position is that it is encouraged to fast but if you are worried about the health of yourself or your baby then it is permitted to miss the fast and make it up later… the more lenient position is that Allah has permitted pregnant and lactating women an exemption from fasting as a mercy upon us so to pass up on that mercy would be a sin, i.e. you should not fast but should make it up later. And Allah knows best and may Allah make it easy for you and grant you and your baby a blessed Ramadan inshallah
Kanika Aggarwal
August 5, 2011 at 10:48 AM
Dear asiya: Here is a good discussion on this matter. Please read it and may Allah make it easy on you, ameen!
samina
August 3, 2011 at 1:30 PM
salams
i wanted to know can a women read the holy quran online or on the comp when she is mensurating
thanks
samina
samina
August 4, 2011 at 12:49 PM
salams
i i wanted to know can a women read the holy quran online or on the comp when she is mensurating
thanks
samina
muslimah
August 4, 2011 at 5:52 PM
– comment edited by editorial. please refrain from giving fatawa. jazzak Allah khair.
muslimah
August 4, 2011 at 5:58 PM
– comment edited by editorial. please refrain from giving fatawa. jazzak Allah khair.
Kanika Aggarwal
August 5, 2011 at 10:49 AM
Thank you for your question Samina.
The issue of reciting from a digital Qur’an or from memory is one of those issues on which the scholars disagreed amongst each other. Majority of scholars do not allow a woman in her menses to recite the Qur’an. However, there is a small group of scholars who allow it and personally I find their proof/logic to be stronger than those who oppose this. I would highly suggest you to consult your local imam and ask him for his opinion in this regard inshaAllah.
you can read this discussion on islamqa to read about the difference of opinion over this matter.
and Allah knows best.
Anon
August 3, 2011 at 1:31 PM
Okay.. jazak Allah for this wonderful article.. but im a bit confused here.
I am from Saudi Arabia- and we have always been taught that we ‘can’ read the quran in haalat-e-haidh as long as we do not touch the quran directly.
Reference: http://www.muslimaccess.com/articles/Women/women_touching_quran.asp
Amad
August 3, 2011 at 3:17 PM
Pls note for future comments: Per our new policy, “From now on, we would like commenters to use names or a kunyah for nicks or handles – not messages”
http://muslimmatters.org/2011/07/29/etiquette-of-discussion-on-a-blog-comments-policy/
Kanika Aggarwal
August 5, 2011 at 10:50 AM
Thank you for your question Anon.
The issue of reciting from a digital Qur’an or from memory is one of those issues on which the scholars disagreed amongst each other. Majority of scholars do not allow a woman in her menses to recite the Qur’an. However, there is a small group of scholars who allow it and personally I find their proof/logic to be stronger than those who oppose this. I would highly suggest you to consult your local imam and ask him for his opinion in this regard inshaAllah.
you can read this discussion on islamqa to read about the difference of opinion over this matter.
and Allah knows best.
M. Yusaf
August 5, 2011 at 11:40 AM
Jazakillah khair sister :)
ayesha
August 3, 2011 at 1:49 PM
Can we recite quran while in menses?? Digital?? Pls clear this..
muslimah
August 4, 2011 at 6:05 PM
– comment edited by editorial. please refrain from giving fatawa. jazzak Allah khair.
Kanika Aggarwal
August 5, 2011 at 10:51 AM
Thank you for your question ayesha.
The issue of reciting from a digital Qur’an or from memory is one of those issues on which the scholars disagreed amongst each other. Majority of scholars do not allow a woman in her menses to recite the Qur’an. However, there is a small group of scholars who allow it and personally I find their proof/logic to be stronger than those who oppose this. I would highly suggest you to consult your local imam and ask him for his opinion in this regard inshaAllah.
you can read this discussion on islamqa to read about the difference of opinion over this matter.
and Allah knows best.
Brother
August 3, 2011 at 2:18 PM
As-salaamu `alaikum,
Jazaakillaahu khairan Sr. Kanika.
Your advice is awesome. I am a guy, but it serves as a reminder to all. Allaah looks at our hearts and intentions, so we should do whatever we can with sincerity.
Also, in-shaa’ Allaah when the sisters make up the fasts they missed, those days will be filled we the blessings of Ramadaan for them as well.
May Allaah strengthen the women of the ummah, and increase them in their love for Allaah and HIS Infinite Wisdom…Aameen!
Amad
August 3, 2011 at 3:17 PM
Pls note for future comments: Per our new policy, “From now on, we would like commenters to use names or a kunyah for nicks or handles – not messages.”
http://muslimmatters.org/2011/07/29/etiquette-of-discussion-on-a-blog-comments-policy/
Kanika Aggarwal
August 5, 2011 at 10:53 AM
walaykumusalaam Brother
jazzak Allah khair for the feedback and ameen to your dua!
Yasmin Raoufi
August 3, 2011 at 2:35 PM
I’m so excited that I came across this article. Truly words can not describe how sad I feel when I can’t fast because of this during Ramadan but I felt so much better and more hopeful after reading this very informative article. Jazakallah Khair!
Kanika Aggarwal
August 5, 2011 at 10:53 AM
alhumdulillah Yasmin! I pray you are able to take advantage of blessed days of Ramadan even when you cant fast inshaAllah! :)
Meena
August 3, 2011 at 4:17 PM
Jzk for sharing this Kanika!! I hope that these things will help me keep up the spirit of Ramadan :)
Kanika Aggarwal
August 5, 2011 at 10:54 AM
waiyyaki Meena! we have to keep going! Ramadan only takes place once a year, there’s no excuse!
Rukayah
August 3, 2011 at 6:14 PM
Am so glad 2 b a part of dis link and i hope u keep sending articles messages n words of encourgement even after ramadan is over jazakumulallhukhiran
Kanika Aggarwal
August 5, 2011 at 10:57 AM
jazzak Allah khair for your feedback Rukayah! Please let us know if there are anything topics in particular that you would like us to address inshaAllah :)
Sarah
August 3, 2011 at 7:20 PM
JazakiAllahu khayrn :) <3
Zainab
August 3, 2011 at 8:29 PM
This is a great list for menstruating women, but it seems too demanding for a woman having postnatal bleeding and taking care of a baby. What about for breastfeeding women? We can’t fast :(. I actually tried fasting and got very sick the next day..
wt
August 4, 2011 at 3:01 PM
Actually, I think you bring up an excellent point!
I find it very difficult to do any sort or extra religious practises when I am on my mensus, for the sheer fact that everyone kind of “expects” me to take care of the fasting people.
Alhamdulillah there is reward in cooking and caring for the fasters, but in my many years of fasting, each and every time I’m on my mensus, everyone else in the family (or community) takes a break and expects me to cook, clean and care for the children.
I find it impossible to read Qur’an, make dua’a with a peaceful mind, stop for a moment to enjoy the adhaan, when I’m running around cooking and cleaning — while everyone else rests after Asr, reading Qur’an, praying, etc… everything I can’t do while menstruating. It’s an unfair double standard, and I wish the article addressed this.
Kanika Aggarwal
August 5, 2011 at 11:02 AM
Dear Zainab and wt: The article highlights many things one can do while they are on their menses. You dont have to choose to do all of them. Remember the best deeds are those that are small and continuous. One of those recommended deeds is also feeding people who are fasting.
The Prophet sal Allahu alayhi wa sallam said: “He who gives food for a fasting person to break his fast, he will receive the same reward as him, except that nothing will be reduced from the fasting persons reward.” [Ahmad, at-Tirmidhee, Ibn Maajah, Ibn Hibbaan, Saheeh].
Make the best of whatever situation you are in and modify your intentions to make sure you are getting most reward for your deeds in this blessed month inshaAllah.
and Allah knows best.
umm yusuf
August 5, 2011 at 11:29 AM
Subhan’Allah that is a really tough situation to be in. Have you tried focusing on dhikr as you cook ,clean etc…I know it isnt easy when children are present but perhaps it will help insha’Allah.The heart that remembers Allah attains sakinah – (“verily in the remembrance of Allah do hearts find rest”).
Another thing to remember is that whilst you miss out on your own fast, the number of fasting people you cook for, you automatically gain the reward of their fasts too insha’Allah–so whilst you miss out one 1–may be you gain 5??
Also anyone who helps someone do a good deed has a share of it, so by making it easier for them to pray, recite Quraan etc you get more hasanaat insha’Allah. I know it may not seem much comfort especially with all the household pressures but the key is to always turn what seems a “bad” situation into a good one..to recognize the benefits because for the mu’min there is good in all situations.
If the other family members can be approached regarding your own grievances then that is even better…and thus make dua’a for this that He makes your situation easier for you insha’Allah.
Lastly- I personally find lists too much. It is easier to pick a few good deeds and a few vices that you have & focus on them e.g just even doing one good deed consistently and removing one vice consistently , you may find that more beneficial insha’Allah. We should never belittle any good deed and it’s always about quality not quantity. The key is to always set ourselves realistic, sustainable targets which can then be carried on after Ramadaan rather than an outburst followed by burn out –or worse still –regression and losing hope.
It’s all about de-tox and re-charge–the detoxification from all the filth we have attained and the re-charging the heart with taqwa to sustain it when the shayateen are released. The way to achieve this is to nourish the heart well because when the heart is sound then the rest of the body follows suit and thus the mind will be able to handle difficulties more easily and in fact turn difficulties into good deeds too insha’Allah.
ps dont forget to make niyyah for Him before your daily chores, your eating , your sleeping etc so that you continuously gain hasanaat in what seems like the mundane.
I pray Allah azza wa jall makes it easy for you and lightens your burden insha’Allah ,w’ alhamdulillah a’laa kulli haal. :-)
Kanika Aggarwal
August 15, 2011 at 2:50 PM
jazzak Allah khair for the heartfelt response umm Yusuf. great ideas mashaAllah!
Naaz
August 3, 2011 at 8:31 PM
Asalamualaikum
This is a really informative article. I liked it very much. I want you to please focus on other important issues for women like ‘gusal’ after menses etc. I never get clear information about such issues on internet. Please help me in the same.
Thanks and Regards
9
Kanika Aggarwal
August 5, 2011 at 11:03 AM
walaykumusalaam Naaz, jazzak Allah khair for the feedback. we will definitely try our best to address those issues in upcoming articles, bi’ithnillah!
Gül
August 3, 2011 at 11:00 PM
This is a great article! But you should point out that menstruating women should stay away from the Masjid.
Narrated Aisha, Ummul Mu’minin: The Apostle of Allah (peace be upon him) came and saw that the doors of the houses of his Companions were facing the mosque. He said: Turn the direction of the houses from the mosque. The Prophet (peace be upon him) then entered (the houses or the mosque), and the people did take any step in this regard hoping that some concession might be revealed. He the Prophet) again came upon them and said: Turn the direction of these (doors) from the mosque I do not make the mosque lawful for a menstruating woman and for a person who is sexually defiled. (Sunan abu dawood, Book #1, Hadith #0232)
Narrated Muhammad: Um ‘Atiyya said: “Our Prophet ordered us to come out (on ‘Id day) with the mature girls and the virgins staying in seclusion.” Hafsa narrated the above mentioned Hadith and added, “The mature girls or virgins staying in seclusion, but the menstruating women had to keep away from the Musalla.” (Sahih Bukhari, Book #15, Hadith #91)
Kanika Aggarwal
August 5, 2011 at 11:06 AM
jazzak Allah khair Gul. you’re absolutely right. a menstruation woman should stay away from the musallah (prayer space) but many masaajids these days are creating special rooms for mothers and sisters who are in their menses so they can still benefit from the khutbah or taraweeh recitation etc.
Massoud
August 9, 2011 at 10:30 PM
This Hadith is weak and its meaning is unsupported:
Narrated Aisha, Ummul Mu’minin: The Apostle of Allah (peace be upon him) came and saw that the doors of the houses of his Companions were facing the mosque. He said: Turn the direction of the houses from the mosque. The Prophet (peace be upon him) then entered (the houses or the mosque), and the people did take any step in this regard hoping that some concession might be revealed. He the Prophet) again came upon them and said: Turn the direction of these (doors) from the mosque I do not make the mosque lawful for a menstruating woman and for a person who is sexually defiled. (Sunan abu dawood, Book #1, Hadith #0232)
See Al-Albani’s Tamam Ul-Minnah . . .
Kanika Aggarwal
August 15, 2011 at 2:55 PM
jazzak Allah khair for highlighting the weakness of this hadith, Massoud. The hadith below however stresses upon the issue that women in their menses should stay away from the prayer area:
Zakia
August 3, 2011 at 11:00 PM
This was a very beneficial article.
Kanika Aggarwal
August 15, 2011 at 2:55 PM
jazzak Allah khair Zakia
Zainab Bahoum
August 4, 2011 at 4:15 AM
I feel happy to read suh articles but please continue after Ramadan on other issues affecting women.
Jazakumulahuhairan/
Amad
August 4, 2011 at 10:25 AM
More articles on specific issues affecting sisters:
Quandary of Female Vaginal Discharge: Pure or Impure?
Female Wet Dreams: Islamic Perspectives & Regulations
Kanika Aggarwal
August 5, 2011 at 11:08 AM
jazzak Allah khair for your feedback Zainab! Please let us know if there are anything topics in particular that you would like us to address inshaAllah :)
UmmKhalid
August 4, 2011 at 5:38 AM
assalamu alaykum
they are beneficial advice… but it seems to assume that women are feeling as healthy as they do at other times, and are capable of the same things and more than if they were fasting. but some women just feeling completely exhausted and miserable at this time… aiming for high goals is so depressing
Kanika Aggarwal
August 5, 2011 at 11:10 AM
Dear UmmKhalid: The article highlights many things one can do while they are on their menses. You dont have to choose to do all of them. Remember the best deeds are those that are small and continuous. One has to make the best of their situation and may Allah make it easy on all of us, ameen!
Um Taha
August 4, 2011 at 6:33 AM
As-salamu alaykum. This is a wonderful and helpful aritcle. Jazakum Allahu khayran, insha’ Allah.
To Br. Gul and others: With all respect, it is not true that menstruating women are not allowed in the mosque.
In Sahih Al-Muslim (Hadith #588, in the Book of Menstruation):
” ‘A’isha reported: The Messenger of Allah (may peace be upon him) ordered me that I should get him the mat from the mosque. I said: I am menstruating. He (the Holy Prophet) said: Do get me that, for menstruation is not in your hand.”
and
Sahih al-Muslim (Hadith #589, in the Book of Menstruation):
“Abu Huraira reported: While the Messenger of Allah (may peace be upon him) was in the mosque, he said: O ‘A’isha, get me that garment. She said: I am menstruating. Upon this he remarked: Your menstruation is not in your hand, and she, therefore, got him that.”
Wallahu aalam … And Allah (swt) knows best.
Kanika Aggarwal
August 5, 2011 at 11:18 AM
jazzak Allah khair Um Taha. a menstruation woman should stay away from the musallah (prayer space) but many masaajids these days are creating special rooms for mothers and sisters who are in their menses aside from prayer spaces so they can still benefit from the khutbah or taraweeh recitation etc.
for further discussion on this matter see here
and Allah knows best :)
Massoud
August 9, 2011 at 10:35 PM
I think we are misunaderstanding something here. The Prophet’s Musalla is NOT a Masjid, rather it was an open land on the North side of the Masjid for various Salawat, like Eid, Janazah, etc.
So all this narration proves is that one should refrain from comnig to the prayer, NOT the Masjid.
Kanika Aggarwal
August 15, 2011 at 3:00 PM
jazzak Allah khair for your comment Massoud. Aisha (ra)’s response shows that there must have been some sort of a ruling where women were not allowed to enter the prayer space (musalla) when they were in their menses, otherwise she would not have made that comment. Prophet (saws)’s response in turn shows that she is not going to the prayer space without a need so it is allowed for her to enter and leave, as long as she doesnt stay there. so I agree with you: as long as a woman avoids the prayer space in a masjid, she is allowed to be in the masjid. I hope I made myself clear inshaAllah. Allahu waalam
Lubna
August 4, 2011 at 6:55 AM
jazakallahu khair
I was really depresd cz its nt evn 2 days i fastd dat i cnt fast now
Jzk dis article provided me just wat i needed
Bt i was taught that u cnt recite d qura’an in menses no matter you touch it or no
I am realy confused
Can u provide me with concered source i wud realy appreciate it
Thank u
My email id
-email removed by editorial-
Kanika Aggarwal
August 5, 2011 at 11:20 AM
jazzak Allah khair for reading Lubna and may Allah allow all of us to make the best of Ramadan, ameen :)
The issue of reciting from a digital Qur’an or from memory is one of those issues on which the scholars disagreed amongst each other. Majority of scholars do not allow a woman in her menses to recite the Qur’an. However, there is a small group of scholars who allow it and personally I find their proof/logic to be stronger than those who oppose this. I would highly suggest you to consult your local imam and ask him for his opinion in this regard inshaAllah.
you can read this discussion on islamqa to read about the difference of opinion over this matter.
and Allah knows best.
Massoud
August 9, 2011 at 10:49 PM
Just to note what the article above says:
“Menstruation is seen as coming under the rulings that apply to one who is junub (in a state of impurity following sexual intercourse), because both states require ghusl. This is based on the hadeeth narrated by ‘Ali ibn Abi Taalib (may Allaah be pleased with him), according to which the Messenger of Allaah (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) used to teach the Qur’aan and he never prevented anyone from learning it except those who were in a state of janaabah (impurity).” (Reported by Abu Dawood, 1/281; al-Tirmidhi, 146; al-Nisaa’i, 1/144; Ibn Maajah, 1/207; Ahmad, 1/84; Ibn Khuzaymah [??], 1/104. Al-Tirmidhi said: a saheeh hasan hadeeth. Al-Haafiz ibn Hajar said: the truth is that it is the type of hasan hadeeth that could be used as evidence).”
This Hadith is actually weak; An-Nawawi said: “The majority (of Hadith scholars) disagree with At-Tirmidhi and consider this Hadith weak.”
It contains in its chain Abdullah bin Salimah who became senile, and this is one of his weak narrations.
And as for what they deduce from this narration:
“In a letter to ‘Amr ibn Hazm, the Prophet (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) told the people of Yemen: “No one should touch the Qur’aan except one who is taahir (pure).” (Reported by Maalik, 1/199; al-Nisaa’i, 8/57; Ibn Hibbaan, 793; al-Bayhaqi, 1/87. Al-Haafiz ibn Hajar said: A group of scholars classed this hadeeth as saheeh because it is so well known. Al-Shaafi’i said: It is proven by them that it was a letter sent by the Messenger of Allaah (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him). Ibn ‘Abd al-Barr said: “This letter is famous among the scholars of seerah, and is so well known among the scholars that it does not need an isnaad. It is like tawaatur because the people accepted and recognized it. Shaykh al-Albani said that its is saheeh. Al-Talkhees al-Habeer, 4/17. See also: Nasb al-Raayah, 1/196; Irwaa’ al-Ghaleel, 1/158).”
Al-Albani has adamently responded to this (Tamam Ul-Minnah p.107):
“The appropriate opinion is that the word ‘Tahir’ in this Hadith means ‘believer,’ regardless of whether he (or she) has a major Hadath, minor Hadath, menses, or bodily Najasah, because the Prophet (peace be upon him) said: ‘Indeed, a believer is never impure (Al-Bukhari #276 and Muslim #556).'”
For a more detailed discussion on these matters, please refer to Jamal Az-Zarabozo’s research paper on this topic:
http://islamworld.net/docs/uh/zara.html
shiney
August 4, 2011 at 2:10 PM
JZK for these amazing tips!!!!
Mariam E.
August 4, 2011 at 4:14 PM
Asalamu Alikum
Great reminder, Jazaki Allah khayr.
Sarah S.
August 4, 2011 at 7:30 PM
Jazaaki Allahu khairan for this insightful article! This is really beneficial and an excellent reminder not to despair when our menses comes alhamdulillah :).
Another great thing is that a lot of masaajids are now creating spaces where sisters can sit and listen to the Qur’aan recitation during taraweeh even while they are unable to pray and sit in the musallah area.
Kanika Aggarwal
August 5, 2011 at 11:20 AM
jazzak Allah khair Sarah! those extra prayer spaces are a blessing walhamdulillah and every masjid should try to introduce them inshaAllah!
zainab l
August 7, 2011 at 9:50 AM
Jazakillah khayran sister for dis beautiful article.hope to get more educative articles,MAY ALLAH ACCEPT OUR ACT OF IBADAH,AMIN.
Kanika Aggarwal
August 15, 2011 at 3:03 PM
ameen, jazzak Allah khair for reading.
Massoud
August 9, 2011 at 10:25 PM
It should be noted-and Allah knows best-that there is no evidence to forbid a women in her Menses from reading and touching the Qur’an. This is also the view of Imam Al-Bukhari, Ibn Hazm and others . . .
Ibn Abbas quoted Abu Sufyan as saying: “Heraclius (who was a non-Muslim) asked for the letter from the Prophet (peace be upon him) and read it. It begin, ‘In the Name of Allah, the Beneficient, the Most Merciful. Oh people of the scripture, let us come to a common principle between us, that we do not worship anyone (or anything) besides Allah.'”(Surah Al-Imran, 3:64) Sahih Al-Bukhari, vol. 1, p. 182, chapter 9, as stated in Islamic Rules on Menstruation and Post-Natal Bleeding by Dr. Abu Ameenah Bilal Philips.
Imam Al-Bukhari mentioned this incident to prove that since the Messenger of Allah sent messages to the pagans and disbelievers, who were in a state of defilement, then the menstruating woman can also read definitely . . .
Dr. Saeed
August 13, 2011 at 7:46 AM
MashaAllah. It is obvious how much hard work has been put into the writing of such a brilliant article. Menses are a subject which for some weird reason is always a hush hush topic, yet the Quran and Hadith have discussed it openly. JazakAllah.
This article was shared on my forums recently, and since it doesn’t support automatic pingbacks, I thought I’d manually add a comment. I hope that would be ok. :)
Kanika Aggarwal
August 15, 2011 at 3:10 PM
jazzak Allah khair for the feedback and for sharing the article Dr. Saeed. I am glad you found the article of benefit, alhumdulillah
umii
August 13, 2011 at 6:13 PM
This is excellent but what’s the ruling on intimacy during fasting for married and non-married people? Given that the hadith states the Propeht SAW kissed his wives and did everything except intercourse whilst fasting, however Hadith Qudsi states that the fasting person left food,drink and desires for Allah’ sake, given the first hadith there’s a certain amoutn of desire involved when touching your spouse right? Does this ‘touching’ of private parts nullify the fast? Please clarify!
JZK
Sebkha
August 14, 2011 at 4:25 PM
Kissed, yes, I have read those same Hadith. But where on earth did you come up with “everything except intercourse” whilst fasting!? I’ve read that that is permissible during menstruation, but never in the context of fasting. What is your source for this?
Massoud
August 15, 2011 at 12:59 AM
It is reported on the authority of Masruq that he said: “I asked Aishah: ‘What is lawful for a man regarding his wife when he is fasting?’ She replied: ‘Everything except sexual intercourse.'”
Al-Albani said (Tamam Al-Minnah p. 419):
“It is recorded by Abdur-Razzaq in his Al-Musannaf (4/190, #8439) with an authentic chain of narrators as stated by Al-Hafidh (Ibn Hajar) in Al-Fath (Al-Bari) . . .”
See also Al-Albani’s Silsilah As-Sahihah (#221), where he has a detailed discussion on this Hadith. It should be noted that there are other narrations which also convey the same meaning of what Aishah (may Allah be pleased her) has said, although their wordings vary.
So in this narration, we find that it is permissable for a man to attain pleasure with his wife and her body, as long as it does not lead to intercourse.
And Allah knows best.
Kanika Aggarwal
August 15, 2011 at 3:19 PM
jazzak Allah khair for the hadith. It is found directly in Bukhari and Muslim:
and shaykh Uthaymeen’s discussion on this can be found here.
and Allah knows best.
Kanika Aggarwal
August 15, 2011 at 3:17 PM
umii and Sebkha: I believe this discussion will clarify the points you are making.
Shaykh Uthaymeen (rA) added:
(cont’d provided in the link above)
sebkha
August 15, 2011 at 11:21 PM
Thank you Kanika, that provides some well needed context. I found this as well.
Abdullah Ibn `Amr Ibn al-`Aas said: “We were with the Prophet (S) when a youth came and said: ‘May I kiss [my wife] while I am fasting?’ He (the Prophet (S)) said: ‘No’. Then an old man came and said: ‘May I kiss [my wife] while I am fasting?’ He said: ‘Yes’. So we began looking at one another, so Allah’s Messenger (S) said: ‘The old man is able to control himself’. [Ahmad; Hasan]
http://www.qss.org/articles/ramadan/4.html
Which makes sense. I mean no offense, and it could entirely be in how I was reading things, but it seems there are a whole lot of caveats to this issue. I apologize if I misread, but the way I was reading Massoud’s and umii’s posts, it sounded as though it were being presented as a much bigger “free-for-all as long as you don’t have intercourse” type of deal. That’s clearly not the case. Hugs and kisses are still a long way from “Everything except sexual intercourse.” Without sounding coarse, there’s a whole lot in between there.
Allah knows best.
Massoud
August 16, 2011 at 12:53 AM
@Sebkha, just to mention, your original post, in my view, was not apporopriate as you immediately dismissed the narration of “doing everything except intercourse” without even researching the matter fully; it is best to assume the best when our brethen say something and not immediately jump into unhealthy conclusions. It was primarily my goal to merely show you the source and authenticity of this narration and the evidence it constitutes in this matter.
As we well know, the world of narrations and Ahadith are vast and a rich science, so naturally one will not be aware of all the Nusoos (texts) save a scholar . . .
And just to add, it is clearly the case that this matter as not as clear-cut as you deem it to be, rather there is a difference of opinion in this matter which is very legitimate. In fact, there are other texts which support that narration (see my earlier post).
In fact, the Dhahiris (Literalists), including Ibn Hazm Al-Andalusi (in Al-Muhalla), Al-Albani and others are far more lax in the issue with regards to intimacy with one’s wife. Al-Albani (Tamam Al-Minnah pp. 417-420) very reasonably differs with Ibn Al-Uthaymin’s position (which is shown in Kanika’s post), and I feel that his view is the most appropriate in this context because:
1. There is no evidence which proves that kissing breaks the fast. All such narrations are weak (see Sunan Ibn Majah #1686 for example). It is even the view of Ibn Abbas that kissing, caressing, and touching are permissable as long as it does not lead to sexual intercourse (see Musannaf Abdur-Razzaq #8415),
2. There are no explicit evidences which forbid one from intimacy with one’s wife; they are all either general or show hints of it being merely disliked (see Sunan Ibn Majah #1688 for example). If one examines and harmonizes these texts carefully, they will see that it is not as clear as they deem it to be,
3. All evidences which forbid this intimacy do so due to the danger of this desire reaching to sexual intercourse (they all emphasize the controlling of desire which may lead to intercourse i.e. a great sin), not ejaculation or the emission of Madhiy. We have no narrations which indicate that the latter breaks the fast, while the former has been clearly defined in the texts. There is a clear distinction here which one will notice . . . And there is not the slightest doubt that the people of the Prophet’s time would emit sexual fluids during their lifetime, even while fasting, yet there is no text from them in this matter which shows that this breaks the fast.
Anyway, this is a matter where there is a clear difference of opinion, and it is wrong to state that there is a consenus in this matter, as some wrongly claim. In addition, there is no way to “clearly” rectify these matters merely by giving precedence to one text over the other (Tarjeeh), as we’re seeing it being done here wrongfully.
Sufyan Ath-Thawri said: “When you see someone do something over which there is a difference of opinion, and you hold a divergant view, do not forbid him!”
And Allah knows best.
umii
August 16, 2011 at 10:39 AM
JZK for the clarification, i came across this from sheikh albanee and it left me really confused!
http://www.hoor-al-ayn.com/articles/Fiqh/Ejaculation%20and%20Ramadan.pdf
:S
sebkha
August 16, 2011 at 2:41 PM
I did not dismiss anything in my first post. I asked for the source to clarify, and have some context. It would be nice to be given the same courtesy of not having the worst assumed about my words that you’re accusing me of not possessing, even though nothing i said was actually dismissive in the first place. And where did I say anything to make it seem as though I were stating the whole thing was clear cut? There are a lot of caveats to the issue, that should be presented equally, and measured and taken into consideration. There’s nothing wrong with presenting them here alongside the other. There’s a very wide range of halal intimate activities amongst married people. It’s not unreasonable, or dismissive to say a little more clarification could be necessary to address that wide range of possibilities when discussing what one can and cannot do when they’re fasting. For some couples “touching and being intimate” could be interpreted as holding hands, or hugging, kissing on the hand, or cheek, fully clothed. Others might take it to mean nudity and full on oral sex that just stops short of intercourse. There are plenty of people for whom the latter view might not even occur to. In their definition, the former is what’s defined as being “intimate” and therefore halal. Or it could be that the latter view was fully considered as well, and given complete permissibility too. But how on earth do we know? What is the definition of intimacy anyways? There are possibly as many definitions of it as there are people. There are huge differences in male thresholds for ejaculation as well. If one man’s threshold were merely touching, and another’s far more involved, but still short of intercourse, is that supposed to all fall under the same header too?
I don’t know who is being accused of saying it’s clear cut, but it’s clearly not me who said any such thing.
Massoud
August 16, 2011 at 3:51 PM
@Sebkha, this is what you said in your original post:
“But where on earth did you come up with ‘everything except intercourse’ whilst fasting!?”
This is not the proper etiquette when asking about the narration; simply because you were not aware of it does not mean that you give the impression that it is something completely alien to your understanding or something unfounded in Islam. Ask for the source kindly and with the facilitation of Allah everything will be clear Insha’a Allah.
As for the discussion of what constitutes permissable fondling during the fast, then I have already twice provided the reference (Tamam Al-Minnah pp. 417-420), and you can even read the English translation above in Umii’s post. But here is what we will mention once again about what Al-Albani has said:
1. Fondling, petting, caressing and all such matters are permissable EVEN if it leads to ejaculation (see my earlier post for the evidences for this view). This, I think is explicit enough to define both the duration and intensity of intimacy allowed while fasting.
2. All forms of permissable intimacy, regardless of their nature (i.e. forms), is allowed as long as they do not lead to intercourse. See my earlier post for details.
3. Oral sex is deemed as being Haram by a number of great scholars, and at the very least it is Makruh, because it goes against the goals of procreation and it leads to harm (e.g. mouth cancers, HPV, etc.). In addition, some sexual fluids released from the prviate parts are impure (e.g. Madhiy, Wadhiy) and swallowing and even just releasing them into somebody’s mouth is impermissable. So this practice is definitely out of the question, especially when we should leave the doubtful matters.
And Allah knows best.
Amad
August 16, 2011 at 6:23 PM
Oral sex is also permitted by a large corpus of scholars. And not even makruh. Really don’t want to get into an oral sex discussion but needless to say with the great many issues Muslims have to face in staying halal, let’s not make opinions sound final word on the issue.
Again, i don’t wish to scorecard scholars here, but wanted to make it clear that there are two sides to this story.
sebkha
August 20, 2011 at 3:10 PM
But will that same large corpus of scholars say it’s permitted while fasting?
sebkha
August 20, 2011 at 3:09 PM
Hopefully this will be the last time I have to say that regardless of how you are reading my first post, it was not written dismissively. I asked a legitimate question. And I will repeat that it was never my intent to be dismissive of the possibility of there being more to the issue than I had previously known. You are taking my words to mean something else entirely than what I intended. There was nothing rude or dismissive in my intentions. I was asking the question in a “oh, wow, what’s that all about, please explain more” way, NOT “you’re crazy, that’s wrong”. I have said I didn’t mean it the way you thought i did over and over but you keep telling me I meant something else, all the while lecturing about “assuming the best” about what someone is saying. So Massoud can tell everyone else to do it, but doesn’t have to do it himself. And Massoud can share quotes like this one
Sufyan Ath-Thawri said: “When you see someone do something over which there is a difference of opinion, and you hold a divergant view, do not forbid him!”
and then write what he did in point #3 up above. Interesting.
Massoud
August 22, 2011 at 2:08 PM
I don’t see anything wrong with point #3, and we don’t take our religion merely from the views of scholars. Oral sex is something new, a practice which was never done by the Salaf. In fact, its origin and fame were reached ever since the advent of the sexual revolution and the distribution of pornography, etc. So I don’t think we should contend with these points.
Not to mention of all the diseases, harm (e.g. HPV, mouth cancers, cervical cancers, etc), and impurities [Madhiy, Wadhiy, Maniy (semen, which some scholars even deem as impure!)] that may be ingested; somebody who insists upon doing it is ignoring the words of the Prophet (peace be upon him): “There should be neither harming nor reciprocating harm (Sunan Ibn Majah #2340; authenticated by Al-Albani and Ibn Rajab).” And will anybody state that it is allowed for somebody to consume impure substances (e.g. Madhiy)?
This is especially true since we have the Fiqhi principle which states that the prohibition is given precedence over the permission, and this is certainly a case where it can be applied here.
I did not merely ignore the words of the other scholars, as their mention of it being permissable was taken into account, However, with these shocking scientific finds, the harms caused by this act far exceed its benefit. This is why at the very least it is Makruh.
As for Imam As-Sufyan Ath-Thawri’s quote, note that it applies to the areas where there is a legitmate difference of opinion. However, as for the mattter we are discussing, there is absolutely a great deal of contention on this act’s allowance . . .
And Allh knows best.
Massoud
August 22, 2011 at 2:23 PM
If you do not believe me about the harms caused by this practice, please refer to the findings which were made available by the research study headed by dentist Kerstin Rosenquist:
http://www.smh.com.au/news/science/study-links-cancer-to-oral-sex/2005/11/17/1132016898256.html
And Allah knows best.
Dr Tahir Alvi
August 20, 2011 at 3:08 AM
It is a great spiritual artical.this must be share with all muslim sisters .our wives and mothers. to boost up ramdan`s spirite
Pingback: Ramadan.sg – Overcoming a Woman’s Break in Ramadhan with Courage and Grace
Maftuna
August 22, 2011 at 1:02 PM
Salaam, I have a quick question and would appreciate your response.
Was there an hadith that said that Aisha (ra) actually prayed during her menses when it was laylatul qadr? I thought the prophet (saw) told her to pray because of the increased benefit, but told her to put something under her so that she doesnt soil the prayer area or something.
Please provide the full hadith if possible. JAK
Maftuna
nazia
July 22, 2012 at 1:43 AM
thanks for this useful information
Aunt Fatma
July 25, 2012 at 8:16 PM
This is helpful shukran.
Sister Solitude
July 26, 2012 at 11:53 AM
Sounds a lot easier than making up the days after Ramadhan ^_^ JazakAllah Khaire thank you
Aiiiiiiiiiiii
July 30, 2012 at 2:03 PM
Opening sentence of first paragraph: While others will be busy in acts of worship such as fasting, praying, reading Qur’an, etc.,
Opening sentence of second paragraph: It is not easy to stay positive at times like these, especially when we see those around us
@Author: Are you some feminist who has a problem using the word men, and resorts to words like others and those around us?
Mohamed
July 31, 2012 at 1:56 PM
Umm.. what about females that aren’t on their period?
Just a small idea.
lady anon
August 3, 2012 at 12:35 PM
This may be a liitle controversial, but I would like to know whether you think a a woman could listen to the Quran while menstruating. Another query I have is on the permissibility of reading the Quran on an electronic device, such as a mobile phone, during the state of uncleanliness. I’d appreciate a precise answer, thanks!
Redundantarticleisredundant
August 5, 2012 at 10:02 PM
Lame. Read a book? Really? These are not bright ideas that nobody has thought of before and these “tips” don’t help much at all.
anna
August 6, 2012 at 2:37 AM
can i have your email adress please
Liyana
August 8, 2012 at 5:16 AM
Thanks for the post. Goes to show by the Mercy of Allah there are so many acts of worship which we can engage in. I treat my menstrual period as an incentive to ‘plan’my Ibadah accordingly. when not menstruating I try to maximize reading the Quran. By the time my period comes I actually feel excited because i can switch to spending more time reading books,tafseer,maybe even send selawat to prophet Muhammad s.a.w and zikir more often. I respect certain opinions which allow the recitation of the Quran while menstruating but personally I am more inclined to the prohibition. Even though I cannot recite I don’t see it as a loss but as a mercy that I can keep my acts of worship as diverse as can be.
I’m unsure of the ruling of memorizing the Quran when menstruating. Could you enlighten me on this issue? Thanks.
mariyam
August 11, 2012 at 7:25 PM
very helpful tips and tricks.Jazakullah Khair :)
Allah'sSlave
August 14, 2012 at 6:09 PM
I just finished writing the dua’a’s in my Ramadan journal! SubhanAllah, thank you for all the information you’ve shared. There’s been debates about if women who are menstruating can or cannot touch the Quran during Ramadan, but you touched on “what we ALL can do”. I really appreciate it Sister Kanika, may Allah (swt) accept our fastings, dua’a’s, salats, during the blessed month of Ramadan and forgive our sins. Ya Rabi.
Pingback: Ramadan Questions | My Journey to Islam
Pingback: ramadan health and spirituality guide » May 6, 2012 » source of pdf files
Pingback: The TMI Hijabi | How to stay close to Allah when menstruating in Ramadan?
yasmeen
June 18, 2015 at 7:31 AM
Slms, I am a new muslim and this is my first fast, the thing is i work with
men and they go read should i also read after them. Im doing all this on
my own as I have no one to teach me but I’m so determined to do this,
anyone help plz
saida
June 20, 2015 at 5:10 AM
asalam aleikum and maashallah on becoming muslim. prayer at work is very tricky. but if it were me, I would say my prayers on my own if all others are men. unless the place you are praying has a partition then you can pray alongside them Allah knows best. that is just my thoughts, you can google more about this or if there is masjid(mosque) around you can go ask the imaam how to deal with this because prayer is very important and should be followed accordingly. peace be with you and ramadhan kareem. my twitter @dreamseptember if you want to talk to a fellow sister
MEftah
July 8, 2015 at 9:19 PM
Jazakillahu Khayran! Shukran katheeran..
Pingback: Concerning Women and Ramadan | Verse By Verse Qur'an Study Circle
Pingback: What It's Like To Have Your Period During Ramadan - News
Lailah
May 15, 2019 at 12:36 AM
Mashallah and Jazak Allahkhair! I’ve struggled and felt immense guilt of not feeling close to God during this time. Now I realize abstaining under God’s command is just as important as fasting and praying, as these actions would have no meaning without Allah swt’s approval. People like you make me realize this. This is apart of our Ramadan, and mashallah to you for speaking on the matter!
Yakubu Binuyaminu
April 13, 2021 at 4:23 AM
This is a nice article.
May Allah Reward you in Abundant
Faizan
May 3, 2021 at 3:49 AM
i read this article it’s amazing
Ebirahome
December 25, 2021 at 8:41 AM
God Bless you for this Knowledge you just shared.