Prayer TimesWhen the Qur'an is recited, a Muslim is required to listen to it. This is because it is stated, “When the Qur'an is recited, listen to it and be silent so that you may receive mercy.” (al-A'raf, 7/204).
Although Muslims are instructed to stop talking and listen when the Qur'an is being recited, there are differing opinions as to whether this is obligatory, and if so, whether this ruling is absolute. According to some scholars, it is always obligatory to listen when the Qur'an is recited. Others believe that the above verse is not an obligation but a recommendation (nadb). Some scholars hold that the verse specifically refers to listening to the Qur'an during prayer; outside of prayer, listening to the Qur'an is considered recommended (mustahabb). (Ebussuud, Irshad, 3/310)
In the Hanafi school, there are two opinions regarding the ruling on listening to the Qur'an when it is recited outside of prayer. According to one, listening is an individual obligation (fard 'ayn); according to the other, it is a communal obligation (fard kifayah). According to those who say it is a communal obligation, if there are some people listening to the Qur'an where it is being recited, the responsibility is lifted from the others. Moreover, according to both opinions in the school, those who are unable to listen to the Qur'an due to a valid excuse are not held responsible. Especially in places like markets and workplaces, if people are busy with their own affairs while someone is reciting the Qur'an nearby, it is stated that the sin falls on the reciter, not those who do not listen. (Ibn Abidin, Radd al-Muhtar, 1/546)
Accordingly, as long as it does not prevent others from listening, there is no objection to performing prayer in a mosque or any other place while the Qur'an is being recited aloud.
Source: T.C. Diyanet İşleri Başkanlığı, Din İşleri Yüksek Kurulu
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