Is kissing the mushaf considered a form of sanctifying the Book of Allah?

Question:
Is kissing the mushaf when lifting it for recitation considered a form of sincere advice and sanctifying the Book of Allah, or is it imitating the Christians in their kissing of what they believe in?

Answer:
We know of no basis for kissing the mushaf; we know of no basis for kissing the noble mushaf, and it is not a recommended practice. However, it is narrated from 'Ikrimah ibn Abi Jahl that he used to kiss it and say, "The speech of my Lord." If this is authentic, it falls under the category of permissibility, specifically for the sake of honoring the Qur'an alone, if it is authentic from 'Ikrimah! We know of no established basis for it from 'Ikrimah (may Allah be pleased with him and grant him satisfaction).
But if it is authentic, it is for the sake of honoring the Qur'an, provided one kisses it solely for the sake of honoring it, not for any other reason; one kisses it out of love for the Qur'an and its honor, in which case there is nothing wrong with it, though leaving it off is better. It is sufficient to take care of it in practice and recite the Qur'an. It was not revealed merely to be kissed and stored in the chest; rather, it was revealed to be acted upon and recited, out of love for it and seeking reward, and to be acted upon by leaving off prohibitions and performing commands.