Question

Assalaamu alakium
I would like to know whether it is necessary for a person to move his lips when reciting the Qur’an (whether in itself, or as part of the prayer) in order to receive reward.  Also is there any difference of opinion in the matter.
Jazaaku allahu khair

Answer

Wa alaikum assalaam wa rahmatu Allahi wa barakatuh.

The Qur’an is an oral transmission, that was also written, but its basis in the early days of Islam was oral, and passed down to us orally.  The order in the Qur’an to read with “tarteel” is specifically referring to recitation out loud.  , meaning recite the Qur’an in a slow, measured tone.

The Prophet, peace and blessings of Allah upon him, said “Beautify the Qur’an with your voices.”  Graded as Saheeh by Albani

More important than this hadeeth is the hadeeth warning those who do not “chant” or read the Qur’an with a pleasant voice: The Messenger of Allah, said, “He is not of us who does not chant the Qur’an.”  Graded as saheeh by Albani.

The rewards laid out in the sunnah for reciting the Qur’an are based on one orally reciting it with a sound.  Outside of this, we do not know of any information on reward for looking at the Qur’an, reading, and not moving the lips. 

The question about not moving the lips in prayer should be asked of a fiqh scholar.  May Allah increase you in knowledge.

Wa iyyaakum wa-l-muslimeen.