Question:
I would like to know of any ruling regarding the use of a handkerchief/ tissue in salaah. a) Can one hold it in salaah and use it when needed in salaah? b) Can one retrieve it from a pocket whilst in salaah? c) Can one blow the nose (loudly or softly) in salaah?
Answer:
a) If there is a genuine need e.g. the nose is dripping and there is the fear of the Musjid or Musalla getting soiled, then one may use a tissue or handkerchief.
b) One may retrieve it as long as it does not constitute a major action.
c) This should be done as softly as possible.
(al-Fatawa al-Hindiyyah, Vol: 1, Pg: 105, Turath)
And Allah Knows Best
Mufti Suhail Tarmahomed
Checked and Approved:
Mufti Ebrahim Desai
Jamiatul Ulama (KZN) Fatwa Department