Q 1: What is the ruling on wrapping belongings or goods in the paper of books or newspapers (Part No. 4; Page No. 74) that contain Surahs (Qur’anic chapters), Ayahs (Qur’anic verses), or Hadiths? When someone saw such an act and expressed disapproval of it, the person concerned said that there was nothing wrong with doing so, and kept on doing it claiming there was no available alternative. Although most of the people in our town are literate, this is a common practice. What is the ruling on doing this? Should I fix my gaze on the ground while walking in the street to collect any papers containing Surahs or Ayahs, regardless of the people who make fun of me? What is my duty to stop this abominable act that is spreading nowadays?

A: Firstly, it is not permissible for a Muslim to wrap their belongings or items in papers that contain Surahs, Ayahs, or Hadiths. It is equally impermissible to throw these papers in the street or a dirty place. This constitutes an act of desecration and humiliation of the Qur’an, Hadith, and Dhikr (Remembrance of Allah), and a violation of their sanctity. Claiming that there is no available alternative is lame and is easily refuted with proofs from actual life, as there are various means for covering items that dispense with any need for papers containing Qur’an, Hadith, or any mention of Allah. Rather, this behavior stems from negligence and weakness of Iman (faith). Secondly, it is enough to move yourself beyond sin and blame that you advise people to abandon using such papers in a desecrating way and to warn them against throwing them in trash cans, in the streets, and in similar places. (Part No. 4; Page No. 75) You are not obliged to do what is beyond your capability by collecting such papers from the streets, but you can remove what comes in your way without any hardship.May Allah grant us success. May peace and blessings be upon our Prophet Muhammad, his family, and Companions.