Placing the Mushaf in a Suitcase or Carry-On Bag During Travel

Question

I know there are rulings and opinions about placing the Mushaf on the floor and on what shelf it should be kept, but what about packing it in a suitcase or carry-on bag for travel abroad?

Answer

Alhamdulillah, wassalatu wassalamu ala rasulillah, wa ala alihi wa sahbihi ajma’in.

1. The Shari Context

The Qur’an is the speech of Allah and should be treated with honor and respect.

Allah says:

“That is so. And whoever honors the symbols of Allah, indeed, it is from the piety of the hearts.”

Surat al Hajj (22:32)

Allah also says:

“Indeed, it is surely a Noble Qur’an, in a protected Book.”

Surat al Waqi’ah (56:77-78)

The scholars understood from these and other evidences that the Mushaf should be handled respectfully and protected from disrespect, impurity, and unnecessary mistreatment.

2. Scholarly Discussion

The scholars generally agree that honoring the Mushaf is recommended and that intentionally treating it in a disrespectful manner is prohibited.

Regarding where the Mushaf should be placed, the jurists discussed matters such as placing it on the ground, storing it on shelves, and carrying it during travel.

First Opinion: It Is Permissible to Place the Mushaf in Luggage

This is the opinion of the majority of contemporary scholars.

They state that there is no prohibition against placing the Mushaf in a suitcase, backpack, or carry-on bag when traveling, provided that it is kept respectfully and protected from damage or impurity.

The purpose of the suitcase is transportation, not disrespect. Therefore, placing the Mushaf inside it does not diminish its sanctity.

Second Opinion: It Is Recommended to Give the Mushaf a Distinguished Place

Some scholars recommend placing the Mushaf in the upper compartment of the suitcase or in a separate protective sleeve or pocket if this can reasonably be done.

They regard this as part of honoring the Qur’an, although they do not consider it obligatory.

3. Application to the Question

Packing the Mushaf in a suitcase or carry-on bag for travel is permissible.

However, it is recommended to observe proper etiquette by:

• Placing it in a clean bag or protective cover.
• Avoiding packing it together with impure items or anything that would dishonor it.
• Avoiding placing heavy or sharp objects directly on top of it if reasonably possible.
• Keeping it dry and protected from damage.

If clothing or other permissible belongings are packed together with the Mushaf, there is no sin in doing so.

Likewise, airport security procedures that require the bag to be placed on conveyor belts or examined by security personnel do not affect the permissibility of carrying the Mushaf, as these are ordinary necessities of travel and do not constitute disrespect.

4. Relevant Usul Principle

المشقة تجلب التيسير

Hardship brings about ease.

Travel often requires carrying belongings together in luggage. The Sharia does not impose unnecessary hardship in matters where the honor of the Mushaf can still be maintained.

Final Ruling

It is permissible to pack the Mushaf in a suitcase, backpack, or carry-on bag when traveling. There is no requirement that it be carried separately. It is recommended to place it in a clean and protected location within the luggage, avoid packing it with anything impure or disrespectful, and take reasonable care to preserve its honor. If these etiquettes are observed, there is no sin in transporting the Mushaf in ordinary travel luggage.

And Allah knows best.