Reference: Fataawa Ramadhaan – Volume 2, Page 811, Fatwa No.813
Fiqh al-‘Ibaadaat – Page 207
Question: Some of those who are praying in the congregation hold a copy of the Qur.aan during Ramadhaan so as to follow [the recitation of] the imaam in the night prayer (Taraaweeh). It may well be that the imaam is not in need of them “supporting” his recitation [in case he makes a mistake – in which case they can prompt him] since he himself may also be reciting from a copy of the Qur.aan. So what is the ruling regarding this?
Response: I am of the opinion that those who are praying [behind the imaam] should not hold a copy of the Qur.aan unless it is necessary, such as if the imaam was to say to someone: “I am unsure of my recitation, so I want someone behind me to follow me (my recitation) with a copy of the Qur.aan. Then, if I make a mistake, correct me.”
As for other than this, then it is not befitting since it entails busying oneself in that where there is no need, as well as missing out on the [reward of maintaining the] Sunnah of placing the right hand over the left upon the chest. So, that which is more appropriate is for a person not to do this unless it is for a necessity as I have [just] indicated.
