Egypt’s Dar Al-Ifta received an inquiry about the permissibility of writing Qur’anic verses on the ground as a means of learning and memorization, especially in rural or impoverished regions where students have no access to writing boards or other materials.

The religious authority explained that while the Qur’an must always be revered, Islamic law allows writing on the ground in cases of necessity, as long as strict conditions are observed. These include ensuring that the surface is not walked upon, sat on, or used to place objects, that both the surface and the writing tool are pure, and that erasing the text is done respectfully by hand, not by foot.

Dar Al-Ifta stressed that this ruling applies only temporarily and is bound by necessity. Once proper writing materials become available, the permission no longer applies. It urged Muslims to financially support Qur’an education centers and village kuttabs, even through zakat funds, since teaching the Qur’an is among the noblest forms of worship and a means of preserving divine knowledge.

The institution clarified that writing on the ground does not constitute disrespect when done for learning purposes without intent to demean the sacred text. Historical evidence supports this, as the Prophet’s companions wrote the Qur’an on palm branches, thin stones, and pieces of leather when nothing else was available, as narrated by Zaid ibn Thabit.

Dar Al-Ifta also referenced classical scholars who stated that the prohibition on writing Qur’anic verses on the ground stems from fear of disrespect through trampling. However, when that fear is absent, the prohibition no longer applies, since legal rulings depend on their underlying reasons.

The statement cited the example of Ibn Abbas, who described how Prophet Zakariya wrote to his people on the ground to instruct them to glorify Allah, proving that writing on the ground is permissible if the intention is education or remembrance.

Moreover, several scholars noted that necessity removes the element of disrespect. They even permitted writing with one’s foot if a person cannot use their hands, as the act would not reflect irreverence but rather a genuine need.

Dar Al-Ifta concluded by emphasizing that Islamic rulings are based on intention and context. It called on all Muslims to uphold the sanctity of the Qur’an, ensure its respectful treatment in all circumstances, and work collectively to provide proper educational tools for future generations of learners.

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