Reciting the Quran in Public: Is it Considered Showing Off?

Guidance on Reciting the Quran During Travel and in Public Places

Question: If I am traveling on a plane, will reciting the Quran be considered showing off?

Answer: Reciting the Quran is allowed in all circumstances, whether traveling or at home. However, in some cases, holding a copy of the Quran (Mushaf) and reading from it during a journey may cause others to have suspicions, and the reader themselves may feel a sense of display or pride. In such situations, it is better to avoid using the Mushaf if there’s a chance it might lead to misunderstanding. The Prophet ﷺ said, “Whoever avoids doubtful matters has protected their religion and honor” (Bukhari: 52). We are not saying that reciting from the Mushaf in front of others is necessarily showing off, but in places where people might misunderstand the intention, it is better to avoid it.

As for reciting the Quran from memory quietly, there is no issue with that, and it can be done anywhere. We are only advising caution in using the Mushaf in situations where doubts might arise.

Response by: Sheikh Maqbool Ahmad Salafi (Hafizahullaah)

Jeddah Da’wah Center, Hai Al-Salama – Saudi Arabia

Interpreter: Hasan Fuzail