Question:

Is it permissible to use a Qur’ān app on a smartphone without wudhu?

Answer:

In the Name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful.

As-salāmu ‘alaykum wa-rahmatullāhi wa-barakātuh.

As far as the actual screen display is concerned, it is not permissible to touch the actual script of the Qur’ān displayed on a smartphone or tablet screen without Wudhū’.  Once the app is closed, Wudhū’ is no longer required to touch the screen as the Qur’ānic script is no longer present.[1] 

With regards to holding the device itself, there are two opinions in the classical Hanafi works regarding touching everything besides the mushaf. 

According to one opinion, Wudhū’ will be required in order to touch anything which has a verse of the Qur’ān on it.[2] 
Another opinion states that Wudhū’ will not be needed to touch the actual object which has the verse of the Qur’ān inscribed on it.  However, one cannot touch the actual writing of the Qur’an without wudhu.[3]

The first opinion is the awra’ (precautionary) view and the second opinion is the awsa’ (accommodating) view.
In keeping the above difference of opinions in mind, one should habitually have Wudhū’ when reading the Qur’ān from a smartphone or tablet.  In journeys and places where performing Wudhū’ is difficult, one may adopt the second opinion of not having to perform Wudhū’ to touch the device.  However, to touch the screen, Wudhū’ will be required in all scenarios and situations.

And Allah Ta’ālā Knows Best

Mufti Faraz Adam,
www.darulfiqh.com