Quran care

The Quran fell on the floor: what should I do?

By the Madrasah Bag team · Updated 2026-09-24

Quick fix

If a Quran falls by accident, pick it up straight away and put it somewhere clean and raised. Many people kiss it or make istighfar as a sign of respect. The widely held view is that an accident isn't a sin and there's no set penalty or charity required, but if you're worried, ask your imam. What matters is the respect you show and preventing it next time.

What to do

Pick it up straight away.
Check it's clean and undamaged. If it's dirty, wipe the cover gently.
Put it back somewhere raised: a shelf, table or rehal.
Many people kiss it and say astaghfirullah. That's a widely followed custom, not a requirement.

Is it a sin?

The widely held position is that genuine accidents aren't sinful, since intention matters. Deliberately disrespecting the Quran is a different matter. Some families give a small charity out of caution, which is a personal choice. For your own situation, ask your imam or teacher.

Stopping it happening

Keep the Quran on a rehal or table, not on your lap or the floor
Give children a bag with its own Quran sleeve so it doesn't slide out when opened
Keep Qurans on a high shelf, above other books

See how to carry the Quran respectfully.

Questions people also ask

Do you have to give charity if you drop the Quran?

The widely held view is that it isn't required for a genuine accident. Some give charity out of caution. Ask your imam if unsure.

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