Answer: There is no harm in quoting a verse of the Qur’an by way of illustration when the intent is sound. One may say, for example, “It neither nourishes nor satisfies hunger,” or, “From it We created you and to it We shall return you,” intending thereby to remind people that the human being was created from the earth and will return to it. Citing the Qur’an in this manner—so long as it is free of mockery or derision—is permissible. If, however, it is done in ridicule, as the questioner mentions, that constitutes apostasy from Islam. Whoever treats the Qur’an, or any remembrance of Allah, with contempt has abandoned the religion of Islam, as Allah the Exalted says:

“Say, ‘Was it Allah, His verses, and His Messenger that you were mocking? Make no excuse; you have disbelieved after having had faith.’” (Sura al-Tawbah 9:65–66)

The Qur’an must therefore be venerated and respected. This does not prevent a person from quoting it in a dignified, beneficial fashion—there is no objection to that. But to use it in mockery or derision is apostasy from Islam. Allah knows best.

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The Wisdom Behind Sura al-Tawbah Beginning Without the Basmalah

Question: We ask your grace to explain the wisdom behind Sura al-Tawbah being revealed without the basmalah.

Answer: Every sura of the Qur’an opens with “In the Name of Allah, the Most Merciful, the Bestower of Mercy” except Sura al-Tawbah. The scholars have given two explanations:

First: Sura al-Tawbah is a continuation of Sura al-Anfal, and for that reason the basmalah was not placed at its beginning.