What is the proper etiquette (adab) for handling and reciting the Quran?

Muslims are taught to treat the Quran with a level of physical and spiritual care befitting Allah's speech. The Quran states that "none touch it except the purified" (56:79), which most scholars take as instructing that one be in a state of ritual purity before physically touching the Arabic mushaf, though views differ on items like phone apps or translations. Before reciting, it is recommended to seek refuge in Allah from Satan, as instructed: "So when you recite the Qur'an, seek refuge in Allah from Satan, the accursed" (16:98). Beyond this, longstanding custom includes keeping the mushaf in a clean, elevated place rather than on the floor, not stacking other objects on top of it, using the right hand to hold or pass it, facing the qiblah when possible while reciting, reciting with a calm, unhurried voice while reflecting on the meaning rather than rushing, and disposing of a worn-out mushaf respectfully, such as by burial or safekeeping, rather than discarding it as ordinary paper. These practices reflect reverence for the text rather than strict legal obligations in every case, and scholars vary on which specific customs are required versus simply recommended.

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