He replied:

If he does this occasionally for teaching or a similar purpose, there is nothing wrong with it, just as ‘Umar ibn al-Khattāb used to recite the opening supplication aloud for a time, and Ibn ‘Umar and Abū Hurayrah would sometimes recite the formula seeking refuge with Allah aloud. However, consistently reciting it aloud is an innovation contrary to the Sunnah of the Messenger of Allah, may Allah bless him and grant him peace, and his rightly guided caliphs. They did not regularly recite it aloud. Indeed, no one has reported that the Prophet, may Allah bless him and grant him peace, recited the formula seeking refuge with Allah aloud. Allah knows best.

Shaykh al-Islām, may Allah have mercy on him, said:

Section

As for the manner of performing prayer, one matter concerning its distinctive observances is the basmalah, the formula “In the name of Allah.” People have differed sharply over it, affirming and denying both its status as a verse of the Quran and its recitation. Works have been written on both sides, some of whose discussions display a measure of ignorance and injustice, although the matter itself is a minor one.

Partisanship over these and similar questions is among the marks of division and discord that we have been forbidden. What motivates it is the desire to champion the distinctive practices that divide the Muslim community. Otherwise, these questions are among the very slightest matters of disagreement, were it not for the incitement