Is it impermissible to kiss the Holy Quran?

The jurists differed on the ruling regarding kissing the Mus'haf (Quran) and standing for it. There are two narrations from Imam Ahmad concerning this: permissibility and abstention. Ibn Taymiyyah mentioned that nothing has been authentically reported from the Salaf (pious predecessors) regarding this. The view of permissibility is based on the action of Ikrimah ibn Abi Jahl, who used to open the Mus'haf, place his face on it, and say, "The word of my Lord." As for the view of abstention or disapproval—which is preferable—it is based on the principle that acts of worship should not be recommended unless there is a specific divine directive (Tawqif). This is supported by the action of Umar ibn al-Khattab in kissing the Black Stone, and the discussion between Ibn Abbas and Mu'awiyah regarding touching the corners (arkan) during circumambulation (tawaf).