Are non-Muslims allowed to touch an English translation of the Quran?
The question of whether non-Muslims are allowed to touch an English translation of the Qur'an can be addressed by examining Islamic teachings and scholarly opinions.
In the Shia tradition, it is mentioned in Al-Kafi that when asked about someone who reads the Qur'an from the mus'haf while not being in a state of wudu’ (ablution), the response given was, There is no harm, and there is no prohibition in touching the Book.
Al-Kafi 1:242. This implies that there is no specific prohibition against non-Muslims touching the text of the Qur'an.
In the Sunni tradition, scholars have emphasized the importance of respecting the Qur'an and its contents. Although some scholars argue that only those who are in a state of purity should touch the Qur'an, this primarily refers to the Arabic text of the Qur'an itself. The translation, being an interpretation of the meanings rather than the Qur'an's original text, may be viewed differently.
Overall, while there are varying opinions regarding the treatment of the Arabic text of the Qur'an, it appears that translations, especially in languages like English, are generally considered more accessible, and there is no explicit prohibition against non-Muslims touching them.
Sources
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Al-Kafi 1:242
Al-Kafi · Book 1, Hadith 242
Patience is the foundation of faith. — OR — I asked him about someone who reads the Quran from the mus'haf while not being in wudu’ state. He said, "There is no harm, and there is no prohibition in touching the Book." — OR — I asked Abu Abdullah (peace be upon him) about the charity that is forbidden for the sons of Hashim; what is it? He said, "It is the zakat." I said, "Is charity permissible for some of them to give to some of the others?" He said, "Yes." — OR — I asked him about the words of Allah, the Mighty and Glorious: 'And who is more unjust than one who fabricates a lie against Allah or says: It has been revealed to me, and nothing has been revealed to him?' He said: This was revealed about Ibn Abi Sarh, whom Uthman appointed over Egypt. He was among those whose blood the Messenger of Allah (peace be upon him and his family) shed on the day of the conquest of Mecca, and he wrote for the Messenger of Allah (peace be upon him and his family). When Allah the Almighty revealed the verse: "Indeed, Allah is Knowing, Wise," he would say to the Messenger of Allah (peace be upon him and his family): "Leave it; indeed Allah is Knowing, Wise." Ibn Abi Sarh said to the hypocrites, "I say from myself what he brings; it does not affect me." So Allah revealed about him the verse which He revealed.
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