What were the reasons that prevented the polytheists of Mecca from allowing the Prophet, peace and blessings be upon him, and his companions to recite the Qur’an aloud, and what is the spiritual impact of the Holy Qur’an on the souls of its listeners?

The polytheists did not prevent the Messenger, peace and blessings be upon him, from reciting the Qur’an aloud when he prayed; rather, they would disperse from him. Whoever wished to listen would do so stealthily. As for the Companions, they did not recite it aloud for fear of Quraysh. The first to recite it aloud at the Kaaba was Abdullah ibn Mas’ud, may Allah be pleased with him. Perhaps Quraysh kept away from hearing the Qur’an because it condemned their idol worship and contained severe warnings for them. The Qur’an is a healing and a mercy for the believers, and it increases the oppressors in loss. The Prophet, peace and blessings be upon him, loved to hear it from others. Among the benefits of listening to the Qur’an are: healing of the hearts, increase in faith, and instilling awe in the heart.