Is it permissible to recite the Quran without musical embellishment (Talhin)?
General Chapter
Al-Mughni
Book of Testimonies
Primary text
Reciting the Quran without musical embellishment is permissible. Furthermore, if the reciter has a beautiful voice, it is preferable. This is supported by the Prophet (peace be upon him) saying, "Adorn your voices with the Quran," and the narration, "Adorn the Quran with your voices." Evidence includes the Prophet's statement that Abu Musa was given a reed pipe (or melody) from the melodies of the house of David, and the account where the Prophet listened to the recitation of Salim, the freed slave of Hudhayfah, and praised it highly. The meaning of adorning the Quran with one's voice is to beautify it.
Supporting text
Some scholars interpret the command to beautify the recitation as raising one's voice in recitation, as stated by Al-Shafi'i and others. Al-Layth interpreted it as reciting with sadness, humility, and weeping, while Ibn Uyaynah, 'Amr ibn al-Harith, and Wakee' interpreted it as making oneself independent (self-sufficient) through it.