Refrain from marital relations during menstruation
Verse: 2:222
Arabic Text
وَيَسْأَلُونَكَ عَنِ الْمَحِيضِ ۖ قُلْ هُوَ أَذًى فَاعْتَزِلُوا النِّسَاءَ فِي الْمَحِيضِ وَلَا تَقْرَبُوهُنَّ حَتَّىٰ يَطْهُرْنَ
Translation
They ask you about menstruation. Say, ‘It is harm, so keep away from wives during menstruation and do not approach them until they are pure.’
Description
You should not have marital relations with your wife during her menstruation until she is clean again.
Detailed Explanation
In this verse, Allah is guiding Muslims on how to behave during a woman's menstrual period. It states that you shouldn't have marital relations with your wife while she is menstruating. This rule highlights the importance Islam places on cleanliness and mutual respect within a marriage.
According to Tafsir Ibn Kathir, menstruation is considered a time of natural difficulty when women are excused from certain religious duties, and physical relations are prohibited until they have become pure again. The Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) provided further clarity by suggesting that partners should maintain a loving relationship and can express affection in non-physical ways during this time. Engaging in other normal aspects of a relationship continues to be permissible, helping to maintain the bond between spouses.
This ruling teaches mutual respect and care within marriage. It emphasizes the holistic view Islam has about human interactions – balancing physical needs with emotional welfare and spiritual responsibilities. By understanding this rule, Muslims can appreciate the sensitive nature of menstruation and support their wives in a respectful, caring manner, strengthening the compassion and connection in their relationship.