Music has an undeniable impact on our lives, as French author Victor Hugo aptly put it, “Music expresses that which cannot be said and on which it is impossible to be silent.” However, as a Muslim, a disquieting thought may arise while jamming to a favourite tune – the awareness that certain songs are strictly prohibited in Islam.
This prompts a cascade of questions: Why do people resonate with music? What drives diverse preferences in music? How does music stimulate our brains? These questions, often unanswered, linger like an insistent alarm snoozed with every musical note.
As a Muslim, have you delved into why Islam prohibits certain types of music?
The roots of the prohibition can be traced back to the mid-10th century, primarily as a response to illicit musical conduct rather than an inherent condemnation of music.
The Holy Prophet (P.B.U.H) conveyed, “The Almighty Allah has sent me as a mercy to the worlds and to guide the people. He ordered me to eradicate the playing of the flute, other instruments of music, all games of vice, idol (worship), and all practices of the days of ignorance.” [Mustadrakul Wasa’il, Chapter 79]
Singing is Falsehood:
The Quran and Sunnah unequivocally address the prohibition of music.
Allah (S.W.T) states in Surah Luqman:
“And of mankind is he who purchases idle talks (i.e. music, singing) to mislead (men) from the path of Allah…” [Luqman 31:6]
Al-Sa’di (May Allah Have Mercy on Him) elaborates, encompassing all forms of prohibited speech, idle talk, falsehood, and any discourse that leads to disbelief and disobedience. This includes the words of those who refute the truth, argue for falsehood, engage in backbiting, slander, lies, insults, and curses. Furthermore, it extends to the melodies and instruments of Shaytan and musical compositions devoid of any spiritual or worldly benefit. [Tafseer al-Saadi, 6/150]
Allah (S.W.T) asserts:
“(Allah said to Iblees) And befool them gradually those whom you can among them with your voice (i.e. songs, music, and any other call for Allah’s disobedience)…” [al-Israa’ 17:64]
Music Leads to Shamelessness and Hypocrisy:
Beyond the melody, the impact of music on emotions can encourage shamelessness and hypocrisy among its listeners.
The Messenger of Allah (P.B.U.H) warned:
“Among my Ummah, there will certainly be people who permit zinaa, silk, alcohol, and musical instruments…” [Narrated by al-Bukhaari ta’leeqan, no. 5590; narrated as mawsool by al-Tabaraani and al-Bayhaqi. See al-Silsilah al-Saheehah by al-Albaani, 91].
In essence, the prohibition of certain types of music in Islam is rooted in spiritual wisdom, guiding Muslims away from avenues that may lead to disobedience, falsehood, and moral decay. Understanding this wisdom can serve as a compass for Muslims navigating the vast realm of musical expressions while remaining steadfast in their faith.
Consequences of Listening Music: A Spiritual Perspective in Islam:
Musicians with a Blackened Face:
In the grand assembly of “Mahshar” on the Day of Judgment, musicians will emerge with blackened faces, a stark representation of their blindness, deafness, and foolishness in the spiritual realm.
The Holy Prophet of Islam declared: “A person who possesses a ‘sitar’ will be raised on the Day of Judgment with a blackened face. His hands will clutch a ‘sitar’ of fire. Seventy thousand angels, armed with maces of fire, will strike him on the face and head. The singer will emerge from his grave – blind, deaf, and dumb. The adulterer will share a similar fate. The flute player and the drum player will face the same consequence.” [Mustadrak al-Wasa’il].
Drums in Times of War:
There exists a misconception regarding the permissibility of drums during times of war. Some argue for an exception, asserting that military music is allowed. However, this claim lacks sufficient evidence, as there is no clear exemption for musical instruments during warfare. Muslims are encouraged to turn their hearts toward Allah in times of conflict.
Allah (S.W.T) emphasises:
“They ask you (O Muhammad) about the spoils of war. Say: ‘The spoils are for Allah and the Messenger.’ So fear Allah and adjust all matters of difference among you…” [al-Anfal 8:1].
Moreover, engaging in music during war contradicts the essence of taqwa, diverting individuals from the remembrance of Allah. Additionally, music aligns with the customs of disbelievers, violating the prohibition set by Allah.
“No people go astray after having been guided except they develop arguments amongst themselves.” [Saheeh]
The Only Exception:
An exception exists for the Daff – a hand drum without rings – when used by women during festive occasions such as Eids and weddings. Prophet Muhammad (P.B.U.H) permitted certain musical instruments at weddings and similar celebrations, granting women the right to play the Daff. However, men are advised against playing or clapping with their hands during such events.
He (P.B.U.H) stated: “Clapping is for women, and tasbeeh (saying Subhaan Allaah) is for men.” [Al-Saheeh]
It is imperative to heed this advice conscientiously, gradually distancing ourselves from the allure of music. Let us not be deceived in an era where distractions pull people away from Islam. Advocates for the permissibility of singing and musical instruments only cater to contemporary desires. To truly understand Islam, let us strive to glean wisdom from the Book of Allah (S.W.T) and the Sunnah of our Prophet (P.B.U.H).