What is Not Allowed During Menstruation in Islam?

During menstruation, Islamic guidelines prohibit certain practices. Specifically, sexual intercourse is forbidden, as implied by Quran 2:222. Furthermore, obligatory and voluntary prayers (Salah), and fasting (Sawm), including during Ramadan, are also not permitted. These restrictions are based on interpretations of the Quran and Hadith (the sayings and traditions of Prophet Muhammad). Note that some interpretations and practices may vary among different schools of Islamic thought.

• Sexual Intercourse: Quran 2:222 clearly indicates that intimacy with one's wife during menstruation is prohibited. [Source: Quran 2:222, various scholarly interpretations]
• Prayer (Salah): While not explicitly stated in the Quran, Hadith extensively clarifies that women are exempt from performing prayers during menstruation. Missed prayers do not require compensation. [Source: Various Hadith collections, IslamQA.info]
• Fasting (Sawm): Menstruating women are exempted from fasting, both obligatory (like Ramadan) and voluntary fasts. This exemption is a form of religious leniency. [Source: IslamQA.info]
• Circumambulation of the Kaaba: This act, part of the Hajj pilgrimage, is also not permitted for menstruating women. [Source: IslamQA.info]

It is crucial to understand that these restrictions are not intended to label women as "unclean," but rather represent a time of temporary religious dispensation. The concept of ritual purity within Islam addresses broader aspects of hygiene and spiritual readiness for worship.

[Source: Wikipedia - Menstruation in Islam; IslamQA.info - Dos and Don'ts during Menstruation; Various scholarly articles and religious texts]