Though I know the Qur’ān can be read at anytime, but is there a preferred time to read it ?
According to the Qur’ān, there are two times in a day when reading the Qur’ān is very beneficial as well as a source of great blessing for the reader:
a) Reciting the Qur’ān in the Tahajjud Prayer:
O ye enfolded in your shawl! stand [in prayer] by night, but not all night. Half the night, or even less or a little more and [in this prayer of yours] recite the Qur’ān in a slow measured tone… Verily, this rising by night is very suitable for the mind’s peace and the heart’s resolve and for the correctness of speech. (73:1-6)
These verses show that the time of Tahajjud is most effective in understanding the Qur’ān and in making others understand it. In other words, where this recital can be immensely beneficial to one’s own soul, it can also be very useful in vitalising all those who may happen to listen to it at this time of the night.
b) Reciting the Qur'ān in the Fajr Prayer:
Establish regular prayers at the sun’s decline till the darkness of the night and specially the reciting of the Qur’ān in the Fajr prayers. Indeed, this recital at Fajr is [done in] in the presence [of the exalted angels]. (17:78)
This verse shows that recital of the Qur’ān in the Fajr prayers is a very special occasion since angels come and listen to it.