Is it permissible to recite the Qur'an aloud when one is alone?

The questioner : We conclude this session with a question. The questioner says: Is it permissible for me, while I am reciting the Qur'an, to recite it aloud when I am alone, or should I do so quietly? Please guide me in this matter.

The Shaykh : I mean, is he praying and not just reciting?

The questioner : He is just reciting.

The Shaykh : It is permissible for the one who recites the Qur'an to recite it quietly and it is permissible to recite it aloud. He should do what he sees as being more reverent for him and closer to reflecting on the Qur'an. As for when he is in prayer, he is likewise given the choice between reciting aloud or quietly if it is the night prayer; he should do what is more reverent for his heart and more effective in reflection. However, if there are people around him who would be disturbed if he recited aloud, whether he is in prayer or not, he should not recite aloud. This is because the Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him) went out one night while his companions were praying and reciting aloud, so he forbade them from doing so so that they would not harm one another.