Displaying Qur'anic & Dua Calligraphy – Guidance & FAQs
A Note Before You Read
Scholars hold a range of opinions on the display of Qur'anic verses in the home. This page shares commonly cited guidance to help you make a considered, personal choice. Because rulings can differ between madhabs and individual scholars, we encourage you to consult a scholar you trust for your own circumstances. We have presented multiple perspectives rather than one definitive ruling.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Is it permissible to hang Qur'anic verses on the wall?
Scholars differ on this question. Some permit the display of Qur'anic calligraphy in the home, noting that it serves as a reminder (dhikr) and a means of beautifying the space with the words of Allah. Others counsel caution, particularly if the verse may be neglected or placed in a way that does not honour its status. A third view holds that it is disliked (makruh) without clear benefit. We recommend consulting a knowledgeable scholar for guidance specific to your situation.
2. Are there rooms where Qur'anic art should not be placed?
Across scholarly opinions, a shared principle is that the Qur'an and its verses should be treated with dignity. Many scholars advise against placing Qur'anic text in the bathroom or toilet area. For bedrooms, opinions vary; some scholars see no issue if the verse is covered or faced away at appropriate times, while others prefer Qur'anic pieces to be kept to communal living spaces. If you are uncertain, a Dua or 99 Names piece may be a more comfortable choice for private rooms.
3. Where is a good place to display Qur'anic calligraphy in the home?
Common choices include the entrance hallway, living room, dining room, or study — spaces where the piece can be seen and appreciated, treated with care, and where guests are welcomed. Placing the artwork at eye level or above is generally considered more respectful than placing it low to the ground.
4. Does the direction the artwork faces matter?
There is no specific scholarly ruling requiring Qur'anic art to face a particular direction. However, many people prefer not to hang it in a position where it directly faces the toilet. Facing towards the qibla is a personal choice some people make as an additional sign of respect, though it is not required.
5. How should I handle the artwork?
Handle the piece with clean hands and treat it as you would any object bearing the words of Allah — with care and respect. Avoid placing it on the floor or in areas where it may be stepped over. When moving or storing the artwork, wrap it carefully.
6. What if I want to remove or replace the piece?
If you no longer wish to display the artwork, it should be stored respectfully — wrapped and kept somewhere clean — rather than simply discarded. Many people choose to pass such pieces on to family or friends. If the piece must be disposed of, the same principles that apply to other materials bearing Qur'anic text should be followed; scholars generally recommend burning or burying such materials rather than putting them in general waste. Please consult a scholar if you are unsure.
7. Does state of ritual purity (wudu) matter when near Qur'anic art?
The classical ruling on touching a physical Mushaf (the bound Qur'an) without wudu is a matter of scholarly discussion, but displayed calligraphy on a canvas or wall is generally not considered to carry the same ruling as a Mushaf. Most scholars would not require wudu simply to be near or look at displayed Qur'anic art. As always, if you have a specific concern, a scholar can advise you.
8. Would a Dua or 99 Names piece be a better fit for my space?
If you are decorating a private room, a child's bedroom, or any space where you feel uncertain about displaying a Qur'anic verse, a piece featuring a beautiful Dua (supplication) or the 99 Names of Allah (Asma ul-Husna) may be a more comfortable choice. These pieces carry spiritual meaning and beauty, and their display is generally agreed upon across scholarly opinions. Browse our collections for inspiration.
9. What if I am buying a piece as a gift?
It is a thoughtful gesture to let the recipient know what the text says and give them the opportunity to decide where and how they would like to display it. You may wish to share this FAQ page with them so they can make an informed and confident choice.
10. Where can I learn more?
We encourage you to speak with a local imam or Islamic scholar, or to consult trusted resources such as IslamQA.info or SeekersGuidance.org for scholarly answers to your specific questions.
This page is intended as general guidance only and does not constitute a religious ruling (fatwa). ByAminah presents multiple scholarly perspectives out of respect for the diversity of opinion within the Muslim community.