There is a distinction between reciting the Quran from a physical copy with touch and reciting the Quran from memory or a portion that has been memorized:
Firstly: Reciting the Quran from memory does not require being in a state of ablution (wudu), although it is recommended. This is the consensus of scholars to the best of our knowledge, and it is the view of the four major imams. One can recite the Quran whether in a state of ablution or not.
Secondly: Touching the physical copy of the Quran is not permissible without ablution (wudu) according to the majority of scholars, including the four major imams. However, the Dhahiri school of thought holds the opinion that ablution is not a prerequisite for touching the Quran.
The evidence for our school of thought:
– Allah’s saying: “Indeed, it is a noble Quran. (77) In a well-protected Book. (78) None touch it except the purified. (79) [It is] a revelation from the Lord of the worlds.” (Al-Waqi’ah, 56: 77-80).
The description of the Quran as a “revelation” directs it toward the known written form, as there is no other form of revelation after the message of Islam.
-The Prophet, peace be upon him, wrote to ‘Amr ibn Hazm, and in it was: “The Quran should not be touched except by those who are in a state of purity.” This is a clear statement on the subject.
And Allah knows best.
Fatwa by Dr. Khālid Naṣr