Can Women Perform Dhikr with Tasbih During Menstruation and Childbirth Bleeding?

One of the common questions that arises in the Muslim community is the allowance of performing dhikr with tasbih during menstruation and childbirth bleeding. According to many Islamic scholars and traditions, certain restrictions apply during these specific phases of a woman's life.

Understanding the Rulings

First and foremost, it is important to acknowledge that while there are different interpretations and opinions within the Islamic community, the vast majority of scholars recommend avoiding the use of tasbih during menstruation and childbirth bleeding. This is based on the belief that it is disrespectful to the state of modesty and piety that menstruating women uphold.

Historical Context and Origins of Tasbih

The origin of tasbih can trace back to various religious and cultural practices. Some argue that it evolved from Buddhist or other pre-Islamic practices, while others attribute it to specific hadiths compiled by scholars of the Abbasid period. However, it is crucial to note that the true essence of dhikr and tasbih, as mentioned in the Quran and authentic hadith, is rooted in genuine spiritual intentions and purity of the soul.

Contradictions and Interpretations

While some interpret tasbih as a physical act that should be avoided during menstruation, others argue that the act itself, if performed without physical contact with the menstrual fluid, is permissible. This argument is sometimes supported by citing a sahih hadith where the Prophet, peace be upon him, advised a girl to use her fingers for dhikr instead of stones during menstruation. This hadith emphasizes the importance of purity and modesty in religious practices.

Historical Analogy and Scholarly Opinions

Historically, there are instances where the Prophet, peace be upon him, was known to be in close contact with menstruating women while reciting the Quran. This has been cited as an example where the act of dhikr, in its broader form, is permissible. However, the predominant opinion among scholars is that physical contact with tasbih during menstruation and childbirth bleeding is not recommended.

Referencing Scholarly Fatwas

One of the most authoritative resources for these opinions is the fatwas provided by Islamic scholars. For example, one scholarly opinion states that performing dhikr, takbeer, reciting Bismillaah when eating, reading hadith, fiqh, and du’aa's, or saying Ameen to du’aa's, is not forbidden to menstruating women. Furthermore, it was narrated that the Prophet would recline in Aa'isha’s lap when she was menstruating, and he would recite the Quran, which indicates the permissibility of spiritual practices during this time.

Closing Prayer

Allahumma Subhanaakaa wa Ta’alaa. Wassalallahu ‘alaa Nabiyyina Muhammad, wa ‘alaa Aalihii wa Siddiqihii az-Zaagh Afwaa, ‘Aseem Maalaa Miqyaan.
All praise is due to Allah, the Lord of the worlds.