2: 222 [al-Baqara, Medina 87 ]

Asad And they will ask thee about [women’s] monthly courses. Say: “It is a vulnerable condition. Keep, therefore, aloof from women during their monthly courses, and do not draw near unto them until they re cleansed; and when they are cleansed, go in unto them as God has bidden you to do.” [note 209].

Verily, God loves those who turn unto Him in repentance, and He loves those who keep themselves pure [note 210].

Yusuf Ali They ask thee concerning women's courses. Say: They are a hurt and a pollution; so keep away from women in their courses and do not approach them until they are clean. But when they have purified themselves ye may approach them in any manner time or place ordained for you by Allah. For Allah loves those who turn to Him constantly and He loves those who keep themselves pure and clean.

Pickthall They question thee (O Muhammad) concerning menstruation. Say: It is an illness, so let women alone at such time and go not in unto them till they are cleansed. And when they have purified themselves, then go in unto them as Allah hath enjoined upon you. Truly Allah loveth those who turn unto Him, and loveth those who have a care for cleanness.

Transliteration Wa yas'alu_naka 'anil mahid(i), qul huwa aza_(n), fa'tazilun nisa_'a fil mahid(i), wa la_ taqrabu_hunna hatta_yathurn(a), fa iza_tatahharna fa'tu_hunna min haisu amarakumulla_h(u), innalla_ha yuhibbuttawwa_bina wa yuhibbul mutatahhirin(a).

[ Asad’s note 209 – This is one of the many references in the Quran to the positive, God-ordained nature of sexuality. Note 210 – I.e., if they have transgressed against the above restriction.]

[Ali’s notes:

247 Azan: hurt, pollution. Both aspects must be remembered. Physical cleanliness and purity make for health, bodily and spiritual. But the matter should be looked at from the woman's point of view as well as the man's. To her there is danger of hurt, and she should have every consideration. In the animal world, instinct is a guide which is obeyed. Man should in this respect be better: he is often worse. (2.222)

248 Haithu: A comprehensive word referring to manner, time, or place. The most delicate matters are here referred to in the most discreet and yet helpful terms. In sex morality, manner, time, and place are all important: and the highest standards are set by social laws, by our own refined instinct of mutual consideration, and above all, by the light shed by the highest Teachers form the wisdom which they receive from our Maker, Who loves purity and cleanliness in all things. (2.222) ]